Re: [Paddlewise] PFDs

Craig Jungers wrote about using our PFDs at all times 


I agree with his perspective and the rest of my opinion is on the CASKA
blog he mentions.  But the bottom line(s) can be repeated so the reader
doesn't have to wade through the whole blog.

1.  Lifejackets float you face down if you're not conscious.  So how is
that a safety thing for those of us who usually paddle alone?

2.  When I swim for fun, body surfing and playing in whitewater as a
swimmer, I never use a lifejacket.  No one at the beach ever wears a
lifejacket. If paddling conditions are benign, what does the lifejacket
do for me?

3.  I have never been saved by my lifejacket.  I don't know how many
days I've paddled a kayak in my life, but it is well over 6000, many of
those in serious whitewater.

4.  I would never, ever, paddle without a sprayskirt.  That is my best
piece of safety equipment.  On days where I have forgot to throw mine in
the car, I find I can't get out of my habit of edging all my turns and
really regretting not having the skirt.

5.  I know this is a bit heretical - I think the way to be safe is
practice your paddling skills like crazy.  And wear your lifejacket when
your skills might not be up to the task.  (Or when other paddlers are
looking, so you don't have to spend too much time explaining yourself.) 
But the lifejacket doesn't make you a better paddler.

jim Tibensky
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