I've been wanting to get a mast float for some time but didn't want to spend the money for a Hobie Float. Reading the previous ideas in the forum, I went to Wal-Mart and bought a 22" x 6" boat fender and strapped it to the top of the mast with the topping lift line- I fully rigged the boat at one of the local lakes and capsized it (intentionally) several times. The fender worked perfectly! In fact, I could have bought the smaller 18" x 5" fender that would have provided enough floatation to prevent turtling. I swam out to the end of the mast and was able to throw the mast up in the air to right the boat. This little exercise gave me MUCH more confidence in the boat and myself. I intend on installing a second padeye opposite on the other side of the mast than the one already there for the topping lift. That way, I can strap the fender on top of the mast (pointing the same direction as the boat is going) so it won't be just hanging down, potentially getting in the way of the sail. Buy a fender, attach it to the top of the mast, and practice capsizing and righting your boat, for safety practice when you may REALLY need it- and wear your PFD! Fender $7 Hobie Baby Bob + s&h $95+