Re: [Paddlewise] Effectiveness of PFDs

I agree on the issue of fit being king -- if you can't wear it and paddle all 
day then what good is it, really.

I used to notice the value of the extra flotation when tossed into the froth, 
but wonder if the newer models might re-locate the effective flotation instead 
of having some of it up around your ears.

Indeed thay have come a long way, and this is why I am considering a search for 
a new one while I still have older models that I like.

GaryJ


On 05/03/2011 8:05 PM, Doug Lloyd wrote:
> Some of the better rated models from well-respected makers I find very
> uncomfortable. So, there are all kinds of performance parameters and design
> orientations (like WW versus touring) but at the end of the day, you have to
> be comfortable in the thing, it has to do the minimum flotation requirement,
> and stay on well enough not to ride up while in the water. One of my older
> hi-floats had good R value, seemed comfortable enough, though it rode high
> while seated in the cockpit and didn't provide the real freedom of movement
> I desired. I suppose it's all a matter of deciding which model gives you
> comfort (so you will actually want to wear the cumbersome thing), freedom of
> movement (important in WW paddling and for touring, you don't want
> chaffing), and then get the flotation values you feel don't distract from
> the first two. Buying one PFD for all seasons requires a bit of thought, but
> if you paddle in really hot climates I be tempted to get one of the newer
> venting PFDs. Most paddlers tend to go with units like the Kokatat ProFIT
> Tour or similar PFD from the other big boys. I don't like the Ronin. Some
> folks don't like the PFD's that go over the shoulders to put on either.
>
> As for flotation rates, seems like the more floatation the PFD has without
> distributing it higher on the jacket, the more you will feel like the
> Michelin Man, unless you go with a hybrid model with air chamber
> augmentation. But boy, have PFDs come a very long way since I first started
> paddling.
>
> Doug
>
> One piece of gear we all rely on, whether canoe or kayak paddlers, is the
> PFD.
> I am wondering what people think about the effectiveness--in the water of
> the
> models we have today.   Almost all kayak-influenced with big open shoulders
> for
> free movement, but with the flotation then moved a bit lower on the torso,
> and
> from what I can see more focused on the front and back.  In some ways they
> are
> more technically oriented, but when I think about replacement I wonder how
> they
> compare with my old hi-float which has more than 50% more flotation than
> required, although some of that is mounted high.
>
> GaryJ
>
>
>
>
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