I need some recommedations for the best non-inflatable life vest for daysailing. I read all of the problems with inflatables, and I would like to just get a very good, not too bulky, non-inflatable that will fully support me in the water and not ride up. The foam vest that I use now is just too light and flimsy (though a type III), and I worry about its ultimate safety. With a good foam vest, I would not have to worry if the automatic inflatable would actually inflate, and I sure don't want a manual inflatable in case the boom knocks me out in a viscious jibe. Many thanks.
Best non-inflatable life vest for daysailing?
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What is wrong with inflatables?
I'm not sure what you read about inflatables, but they got a good write-up in the October 1, 2004 issue of Practicle Sailor. You didn't say what size boat your sailing, but, assuming that it's not a small boat that's suseptible to capsizing, you should re-think your bias against high quality, automatic inflatables. Clearly, inflatables require some routine inspection and maintenance, but you're more likely to have them on, which is the key. If, by "daysailing", you mean dinghy sailing, that inherently involves occasional dunkings, an inflatable isn't your best choice. In that case, you might want to research what the dinghy racing crowd wears.
I'm not sure what you read about inflatables, but they got a good write-up in the October 1, 2004 issue of Practicle Sailor. You didn't say what size boat your sailing, but, assuming that it's not a small boat that's suseptible to capsizing, you should re-think your bias against high quality, automatic inflatables. Clearly, inflatables require some routine inspection and maintenance, but you're more likely to have them on, which is the key. If, by "daysailing", you mean dinghy sailing, that inherently involves occasional dunkings, an inflatable isn't your best choice. In that case, you might want to research what the dinghy racing crowd wears.
The best is one you wear
I agree with Bob. The best vest is one that you will actually wear. We tried lots of options and ended up with auto-inflatables. They are lightweight and comfortable and as a result we wear them all the time. I crew on a race boat and my observation is that the people with non-inflatables usually aren't wearing them.
I agree with Bob. The best vest is one that you will actually wear. We tried lots of options and ended up with auto-inflatables. They are lightweight and comfortable and as a result we wear them all the time. I crew on a race boat and my observation is that the people with non-inflatables usually aren't wearing them.
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