PFD question

I'm really glad to see the inflatables brought up I was wondering if they auto inflated.I was seriously leaning that way for my first pfd but then I figured if I go in and cant get back to or on my yak that I would have to be in real bad shape (hit by a pb or something like that) my thinking was if I cant get to my yak I wont be able to pull a cord so it does me no good .I'm wearing a extra sport and no its not the most comfortable but I know if I go in at least I wont go under.

I never used the auto inflate recreational PDFs but I did wear one in the Navy on the flight deck. The inflater is spring loaded and held back by a small tablet that is only supposed to go off after contact with salt water. If you are going through the surf zone and take a wave over your lap it might go off. Taking a roll on a landing or launch will assure set it off, that would be a fun show to watch from the beach.

I had it go off me twice in the rain and once when I was up in the nose landing gear of an EA-6B when the cord got caught on some safety wire. The bladders on the sport PDFs look a lot like the bladders in the float coats. It is hard to put your arms over your head because the way the bladder inflates around your neck.

If you go inflatable you should check them often to make sure there is no leaks. A slow leak could be a very bad day. Just remember Foam never springs a leak.

You can also look into floataion jackets. They are Coast Gaurd approved, but you can't take it off if you get hot.

+1 on the Stohlquist Angler.  I like it a lot because it's slim, has pockets for storage, and doesn't restrict movement. 

PFDs are like any item of clothing. Try a number of different models out to see what you like the best, as there are many models and manufacturers.
I've been using them so long it feels strange to paddle without one.

BTW, Austin Canoe and Kayak aka ACK has the Stohlquist Fisherman on sale for $99. I just ordered one with a 20% off coupon, out the door for $79.20

Ruben

Here is a picture of my Stohlquist Angler about to save me from drowning at Limekiln 5 years ago.  Don't try that in an inflatable PFD.

Now that is a hell of a picture!  I have to imagine it was a surf practice day as you had a helmet on?

No I was fishing. I wear a helmet in the surf zone if there are rocks in the area. Limekiln is a gnarly steep shore break surrounded by rocks.

use the "search" feature  "PFD"

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?action=search2