RE: [Paddlewise] New PFD for Dougie

Doug wrote:

>  So...I went and bought an
>  Mustang AirForce Manual Inflatable PFD.
>
>  But I really like the idea of the freedom of
>  movement I'll have with the new articulated drysuit under this new
>  minimalist PFD, along with the "cooler" design, low weight, and
>  incredible buoyancy (35lbs) if I do need it.

I have reservations about the suitability of this PFD to sea kayaking, but
not because it is an inflatable.

NZ standards specify minimum buoyancy ratings for a range of PFDs. Adult
values start with a buoyancy vest at 53 Newtons (12lb), then progress
through sheltered water lifejacket at 71N (16lb) to coastal lifejacket at
100N (22.5lb), and finally to the shipping regulation lifejacket at 155N
(35lb). Presumably the US and Canada have something similar.

Along with most kayakers and centreboard yachties, I wear a 12lb buoyancy
vest.

In the years when I had to earn a living doing hydrological survey work,
there were problems working in small craft with restrictive conventional
PFDs, so eventually we bought inflatable ones to the sheltered water
standard (16lb). A neighbouring team also bought inflatables, but to the
22.5lb coastal standard.

When we met up for a series of water safety exercises, we tried swimming out
about 25 metres from shore, inflating the PFDs and swimming back to shore.
With the 16lb models this was not a problem, the most stable position was
lying on your back, but it was possible to roll over and swim
conventionally. The 22.5lb PFDs were much more insistent about rolling you
face up, and restricted arm movement. It was difficult to turn back over and
swim.

So I wonder about what happens with your 35lb PFD if you exit your kayak and
set it off. Will you have the freedom of movement necessary for re-entry, or
are you going to wind up lying on your back unable to turn over or do
anything else very constructive?

(Kiwis, of course, being naturally full of hot air, need less buoyancy)


Allan Singleton

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