self infalting vest

Because I fished out in the bay when it was rough and often by myself--- This spring I had started a thread on a SW fishing forum about life vest. I find them uncomfortable to fish in.. I had heard some of the self inflating kind are confortable. After a few weeks and many replies I tried 2 different kinds both were very unconfortable mainly becaused they rubbed my neck. ( its always been red but...) Luckley West Marine did not mind my returns ( guess I spent alot there, they know me by name in 2 stores))
With recent post, this is brought this subject back up in my mind-- and to my household. ( I am not as old as MANY here:D,,,, but am getting more subject to falls)
While I love to joke, no BS... Do you guys have any suggestions on vest that may help us all? ( makes/models)

I guess first off I could have spelled it right ;)

This was one I tried - didn't like
WEST MARINE Coastal Automatic Inflatable Life Vests at West Marine

I have a Sterns automatic, had it for years. I put it on when I get in the boat and take it off when I get out. I don't have an issue with rubbing on my neck.

Thank you for your reply! Tacklebox can you post pic or model # ? Do you use it yr round? (I fish without shirt in the heat of summer in SW because I have Tee top on boat)

You could always get the belt type.

I have a Mustang but I can't seem to find the model I have on line.

I find both my manual inflating Mustang and auto inflating Sterns to be comfortable in the winter since there is a coat or sweatshirt with a hoodie that keeps the vest from rubbing my neck. I use the Mustang in the summer because it is more comfortable. I do have a rule in my boat for the winter: Everyone wears a life vest/jacket when the water temperature is below 50°. The chances of surviving if you fall in without wearing one are slim.

My simple suggestion is to try some on until you find one that fits like you want.

Charlie, I ware a mustang during the cold winter months and although it is not the most comfortable it will save your life. When your not used to having a vest on anything you try is going to be bother sum. At my age any water below 45 I would probably not stand a chance anyway.

Well hers my two cents I use a self inflator I bought at BPS. I think a mustang I am 58 and don't swim very well,joints hurt, and whats your life worth(all kidding aside)? Luckly I have not had to put iti to use yet.

Dang inflatables were rubbing my neck too. I found a ski vest that went over me and my cold weather clothes. I got use to it and now it is like a part of me. Insulates and give me a place to tuck my wet hands to warm up. You just gotta search for the right thing for you, then make yourself wear it until you get use to it.

But you gotta have something.

Dayton

I may have to break out vest during winter, and really didn't mind wearing one in past winters.
I like taps suggestion of belt kind and may have to work with that during the summer when fishing alone on the bay.
I also have to get kill switches repaired and long cord for my SW boat for trolling by myself ( walking to back of boat to land fish while boat is still running 7-8mph)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Anchor Man

Charlie, I ware a mustang during the cold winter months and although it is not the most comfortable it will save your life. When your not used to having a vest on anything you try is going to be bother sum. At my age any water below 45 I would probably not stand a chance anyway.

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What you trying to say Vic your old. rotflrotfl Happy Holidays to you and Eileen.