Inflatable PFDs?

[Jimmyz123]

Originally Posted by rogersmith

Just curious, why don't kayakers (my self included) wear them? Looks to be way more comfortable.

One answer I know is that it requires an action to inflate them (pull tab) and if you go over and get knocked out (by your own boat, etc.) you will drown before you inflate. Is that it?

Most of these have an auto inflate sensor so that if you are knocked out it will inflate. Seeing how we paddle out through the surf and if you should take some waves over the bow that get you wet to the point of activation, which I have heard has happened, you will have to recharge it. From what I hear they are also very loud when they go off.

[jorluivil]

For me its because of a little thing called pockets. I carry a headlamp, a knife, a whistle, an extra lobster gauge and believe it or not I tend to also carry my wallet in one of the PFD pockets....the important stuff.

[mrJB]

Jorluivil is right - lack of pockets. Also lack of warmth. A regular PFD is like wearing a jacket or sweater so less outer clothes are needed. I wear my inflatable (manual) only on the warmest summer days...

Might be good under a rain jacket though...