Re: [Paddlewise] PFD Fit and function.

I don't think we are going to get everyone to run out and
replace their spray skirts and PFDs right away, but why not 
a simple strap that will be worn under the spray skirt and
will attach to the PFD to hold it in position?

I will try some experiments as soon as I get the chance.

One concern in the USA is that any modifications to a PFD
void the Coast Guard approval. 
One way around this would be an attachment that does not change
the PFD at all but only wraps through an opening of the PFD, like
arm/neck opening, i.e. around the shoulder strap.

Something to think about.

BTW I am in full agreement about the value of the croch strap.
When wearing a nylon spray skirt the PFD slides very easily,
over a neoprene skirt it is not so much of a problem.

michael

mitchelr_at_ucs.orst.edu wrote:

> Many paddles wear PFDs that ride up off their shoulders and even
> up to the ears.  The buoyancy of such devices is compromised.
> Children's PFDs all have crotch straps to prevent just such an
> occurrence.  Our PFDs all do too.  The use of a crotch strap
> requires wearing spray skirts over our PFDs, not under them, but
> the added flotation is obvious in our self-rescue practice.
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