This is a bit late on the thread of wearing a paddle jacket over a PFD, but most correspondents on the subject seemed to have not done so. I carry my jacket in a pocket on the back of my PFD, and can slip it on over everything if needed. It is easily done, and beats removing a PFD while on the water, especially considering that when it is required the conditions have usually deteriorated. Some points to note from my experience are that the jacket should have a large front opening, but a full length zip that opens completely is a pain, as the two sides then blow open and are difficult to close. A draw cord at the waist helps tighten everything down. The model that I have was not designed to be worn over other equipment, and consequently is a larger size than normal. This means that the arms are too long and baggy. A purpose designed garment would be better. Rolling is easy enough with the jacket, and rescues involving climbing on the kayak are smoother, as the jacket covers anything protruding on the PFD. Good drainage via mesh openings would be an advantage. It was noted by someone watching that when paddling in strong winds the jacket inflates, which could interfere with control. This has not been my experience. Moving on, someone on Paddlewise mentioned that jackets worn this way would cover any emergency equipment carried on the PFD, and this brings up the question of what sea paddlers do carry. I personally carry that much signaling and survival gear that I tested my loaded PFD to ensure it still floated. I would be interested to learn what others think is needed. Cheers John Kirk-Anderson Banks Peninsula New Zealand *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Mon Sep 09 2002 - 02:34:42 PDT
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