I am curious why people don't wear them.

I think most people don't wear them, ONLY BECAUSE...
1.) Condition's aren't rough enough.
2.) No comfort.
3.) Feel if they can "swim", they don't need them.

I ALWAYS wear my life jacket though.

--
Tyler holmes
Panama city, FL

Boat whore
--

Quote

Condition's aren't rough enough.

my vote

--
Nacra 6.0 NA
Ogden Dunes, IN
--

One word: Overconfidence!

We get over confident because nothing bad ever happens to US! It's always the "Other Guy" and then we call it an error of judgment or just bad luck, depending on whether we knew the guy or not...

its kind of like seat belts and motorcycle helmets. if the law doesn't require it, then people don't use them as much. mississippi requires both, you never see someone riding w/out a helmet, instant ticket, seat belts are not so obvious though. currently, life vest are not required for persons over the age of 12 in ms. so people exercise there right not to...humans are funny like that.

--
Check out "Prindle Sailors" on Facebook!
bill harris
hattiesburg, mississippi
prindle 16- "BLUE RIBBON"
--

Quote

life vest are not required for persons over the age of 12 in ms. so people exercise there right not to

actually coast guard rules require pfd be worn at all times(except if below deck) for 13 and under.

Here are my MAIN reasons why i didn't wear one (back in the day). Now adays i almost allays wear one.

many people in my area don't. True that it's a personal choice, but ask anyone who has died, and they will tell you they wish they had. Same for cycle helmets.. ask anyone who has died from a bike/head trama... they would wear it now.

I sail in mostly shallow waters. i had this idea that i could simply walk to shore. incorrect and even if i could... you can still drown

Main (excuse) when on the wire,... the jacket would climb up my torso and be in my neck/face. this was cumbersome and uncomfortable.
my solution: a thin line of bungee tied from right to left (either on pocket zippers and the little rubber light hanger peice) or simply from arm hole to arm hole.

This allows me to unzip and drape the pfd when on the wire. when not on the wire. i keep it zippered (or snapped at the waist).

this is not a perfect solution as when you capsize/ fall off, etc... you then have to zip it up .. and if somehow knocked unconscious .. wouldn't help.. but most of dont sail with the type of pfd that would turn you face up in the even of being unconscious (TYPE I PFD, or OFF-SHORE LIFE JACKET ) but its a good compromise for me.


PS hardly enforced, and few cats i have seen actually carry one (besides myself) but any boat over 16' is required to have 1 pfd for every passenger PLUS at least 1 throw-able one

It's actually quite interesting.

I remember when seatbelts became mandatory and there was a huge uproar, negative commercials talking about tickets and fines and enforcement and tickets, etc. Now we have somewhere around 85% seatbelt usage. I haven't heard of anyone getting a seatbelt ticket in a long time, except maybe in some very rural areas and all the commercials and education focuses on the positives of seatbelt use (saving lives). Also I can't get into a car without automatically buckling up, it's almost like feeling naked without it.

We now have mandatory power boat licensing where you have to write a test to get the licence. Again the commercials talk about fines etc and there is a lot of grumbling and I have never seen so many police looking for unlicensed boaters. The reason for this is that we were having a lot of deaths due to kids driving PWDs and ski boats into other boaters and docks. Most local people also simply don't know the rules of the road (er river?). Now you can be somewhat assured that the people driver thier boats have at least seen the right of way rules, before you could never predict what people were going to do. I can see the same thing over time, that a boaters license will just be what you need to do to drive a boat and no big deal.

So it seems that initially these types of things require a lot of enforcement and then when people become educated and realize the benefit then enforcement is less necessary. A PFD is like a seatbelt for your boat so my question is why is wearing one not mandetory everywhere? If it were I think people would get used to the idea of wearing them and end up just doing it.

With the PFDs on the market now are cheap and they are more like jackets or vests and some even provide insulation and wind protection. If you are really concerned about bulk buoyancy aids are super sleek, sporty and unless you are a heavy weight like me will cover you in about 90% of the situations you may find your self in. I could see it 20 years ago when you were strapping what amounted to 3 seat cushions to your body but it really doesn't make a lot of sense not to wear one now.

--
Dave Bonin
1981 Nacra 5.2 "Lucile"
1986 Nacra 5.7 "Belle"
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
--

In the 1990's I wouldn't wear a PFD unless "the conditions required it". So on smaller lakes, with light to moderate wind I would strap them on the shrouds or tramp. Primarily because of comfort (I was using waterski PFD's) and because of temp (typically 90-100 degrees) when I was sailing. But when on the ocean or large lakes or whenever there was enough wind to be on the wire I would put on my PFD. But now I wear one all the time, everytime. And make my crew wear them as well. Also I have more comfortable kayaking vests now that are soooo much nicer to wear. I also went from a teenager to married with kid, so that changes your mentality just a little also

--
Scott,
‘92 H18 w/SX wings
‘95 Hobie Funseeker 12 (Holder 12)
‘96/‘01/‘14 Hobie Waves
--

Mostly I think it comes down to
1. Habit
2. Comfort

If you don't have the right pfd it's easy to think "it's too hot" or "I'm safer without it because it interferes with my trapeze hook".

Too many people buy these for catamaran sailing

When spending the money for something like these might mean that they get in the habit of wearing them ALL the time and so would their kids. I know the ones pictured below are a lot more expensive ($90-$120) vs the Walmart Ski Vest above ($19.95) but this really is something you should put money in, it will make your sailing experience much more safe and enjoyable.

We are lucky because pfd's designed for Kayaking are perfect for sailing a beachcat on a trapeze because of the short torso and freedom of movement they offer.


--
Damon Linkous
1992 Hobie 18
Memphis, TN

How To Create Your Signature

How To Create Your Own Cool Avatar

How To Display Pictures In The Forums.
--

Unless it's raging out the PDF stays in the tramp bag. Can't have bad tan lines.

I've been surfing since I was a teenager and have no problem handling myself in 15 - 20 foot surf.

I was a CA State Lifeguard for 17 years at the beaches of southern California and have rescued hundreds of people over the years in in all sorts of dangerous conditions and managed myself just fine.

I swim about 3000 yds 3 times per week.

I ALWAYS WEAR MY PFD WHEN I SAIL.



--
Scott
1982 Nacra 5.2 "Great White"
Ledbetter Beach, Santa Barbara, CA
--

Amen Brotha.

--
Dave Bonin
1981 Nacra 5.2 "Lucile"
1986 Nacra 5.7 "Belle"
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
--

For now on, after all these drowning's i have heard about...
I AM ALWAYS WEARING MY PFD.

--
Tyler holmes
Panama city, FL

Boat whore
--

TylerH

For now on, after all these drowning's i have heard about...
I AM ALWAYS WEARING MY PFD.

Good to hear!

From Wikioedia:

Drowning is death from asphyxia due to suffocation caused by a liquid entering the lungs and preventing the absorption of oxygen leading to cerebral hypoxia and myocardial infarction.[1]

Near drowning is the survival of a drowning event involving unconsciousness or water inhalation and can lead to serious secondary complications, including death, after the event.[1][2]

In many countries, drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children under 12 years old. For example, in the United States, it is the second leading cause of death (after motor vehicle crashes) in children 12 and younger.[3] Children have drowned in wading pools and even bath tubs.

Victims are more likely to be male, young or adolescent.[3] Surveys indicate that 10% of children under 5 have experienced a situation with a high risk of drowning.


(I was one of the 10%. )




edited by: MN3, Sep 16, 2010 - 06:45 PM

I didn't like how the "normal" ones fit, but I wore one anyway. My kid swam competitively & worked as a lifeguard & she never even thinks about it, just puts one on EVERY time she goes out.
I picked up a used kayak that came with a couple. They are perfect for this sport, the shorter length keeps the hook free, & they generally have a mesh pocket on the front.

--
Hobie 18 Magnum
Dart 15
Mystere 6.0XL Sold Was a handful solo
Nacra 5.7
Nacra 5.0
Bombardier Invitation (Now officially DEAD)
Various other Dock cluttering WaterCrap
--

http://www.stohlquist.com…pt&gid=356982&oid=218155

Just so you know - I'm totally biased in my opinion about pfd's. The one above is awesome when your out on the wire. Complete unrestricted arm movement and will NOT ride up when your floating in the water. It has a front pocket that is perfect for a water bottle (or favorite beverage), and has a little garage for a whistle - a must when your off shore, and a good idea in any area. High quality PFD that fits literally like a glove.

http://www.stohlquist.com/dyn_prod.php?p=STO52311



edited by: turtlecat, Sep 16, 2010 - 07:20 PM

I too have a Stohlquist, but it's an older model than shown. Everyone looks at comfort,pockets etc, but many manufacturers ignore what is in my opinion one of the most important features, color.
The tendency is to make them completely of dark color materials. On cloudy days, near dusk, or at any distance the darker color becomes an almost perfect camouflage. I have yellow on mine, & try for the same with wetsuits etc.

--
Hobie 18 Magnum
Dart 15
Mystere 6.0XL Sold Was a handful solo
Nacra 5.7
Nacra 5.0
Bombardier Invitation (Now officially DEAD)
Various other Dock cluttering WaterCrap
--

I have a red Stohlquist also, same opinions.

--
Dave Bonin
1981 Nacra 5.2 "Lucile"
1986 Nacra 5.7 "Belle"
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
--

MN3

I am curious why people don't wear them.

Personally, I don't want a farmers tan. LOL!

I have all the colors for the Stohlquist. Lately I'm on a red kick :)

While I'm also very comfortable in the water, the possibility of being knocked by the boom or other boat parts on the way into the water means I don't let anyone on my boat without a PDF.

I also vote for the Stohlquist. I have 8 in various sizes, colors and genders to cover whomever I'm sailing with.

Why don't people wear their PFD's?
I guess they never hit their masts or hulls with their ribs in capsize. PFD saves both, the ribs and the mast. Prooved :)

in a canoe or kayak or rowboat i am occasionally tempted to not wear a pdf

but on things that can harness the unpredictable winds, are covered in tangly ropes and stuff and can do 10-20knots by themselves

i always wear a pdf

like the safety belt i just don't feel comfortable without 1 now

Quote

and has a little garage for a whistle - a must when your off shore, and a good idea in any area. High quality PFD that fits literally like a glove.

actually.... (hehe) a whistle is also required equipment as per coast guard regs (or other audable device).

"Every vessel less that 39.4 feet (12 meters) long must carry an efficient sound-producing device."



edited by: MN3, Sep 17, 2010 - 10:15 AM

You can buy whistle's from here,
http://www.firstaidstore.…b-4d0e-84fa-6132f8cafcca

I alway's carry one in my PFD pocket.
Even though i've never used it, it's ALWAYS a good thing to carry.

--
Tyler holmes
Panama city, FL

Boat whore
--

TylerH

You can buy whistle's from here,
http://www.firstaidstore.…b-4d0e-84fa-6132f8cafcca

I alway's carry one in my PFD pocket.
Even though i've never used it, it's ALWAYS a good thing to carry.

I can't afford that ($0.26) :) just kidding but it may be worth getting a marine whisle. If that whistle has a cork pea in it.. it can get brittle and not work with exposure.

Marine whistles are still only a few dollars.

i have only had to blow a whistle a few times (when i was at the sceen of 2 jetskis that collided, i blew my whistle to hail help from a powerboat).

I see everyone discussing the Stohlquist PFD's. I have found good success with the Extrasport brand. My wife and sister-in-law both like the "Chica" which is designed for a women, but also comfortable for men. Looks like they don't make my PFD anymore, but just another vendor to look at.

--
Scott,
‘92 H18 w/SX wings
‘95 Hobie Funseeker 12 (Holder 12)
‘96/‘01/‘14 Hobie Waves
--

I always wear one when racing or saling solo. On days when there are a few people in the boat and it is a drifter, we sometimes don't. That's pretty rare.

I'm one of the ones who almost drowned WITH MY PFD ON!! we pitchpoled a Hobie 16 and I was at the front beam when it started to turtle. The jib cleat on the beam cought the back of my jacket and pulled me under. I remember taking that last breath and just panicing! Luckily, the guy I was sailing with (who was on the bottom of the tramp by then) realized what was hapening and pushed me under to release my jacket, then he pulled me up. I had taken in some water, but about coughed up a lung out when I got back on the bottom of the tramp. He had to drag me on the boat. I had no energy for a minute or two. The experience really spooked me.

I think the comfort thing is the factor. I use the kayak PFDs like Damon showed and really like them. Lots of movement, not too big.





edited by: DanBerger, Sep 17, 2010 - 03:35 PM

I'm sure no one appreciates the guy you were sailing with more than you do, but it really should be stressed how impressive that is. I've sailed with plenty of people who would have just stared and said, "I wonder why he's staying down there so long.." and left it at that. Glad you were OK.
__

I usually remember to bring up the fact that I could fall off at the end of my 'new crew speach' if at all. By then I'm ready to go so it goes something like:

"If I fall off you need to figure out very quickly if you can drive the boat or not. If so, come get me. If not capsize it and jump off. If you can't figure out how to do that, pray. Let's go."

I wear waterskiing/wakeboarding neoprene jackets. They probably don't allow as much movement as the pfd's shown above, but I've never felt restricted. They also are very good for absorbing some impact, and the neoprene fits like a glove.

--
Rob
OKC
Pile of Nacra parts..
--

smfinley

I see everyone discussing the Stohlquist PFD's. I have found good success with the Extrasport brand. My wife and sister-in-law both like the "Chica" which is designed for a women, but also comfortable for men. Looks like they don't make my PFD anymore, but just another vendor to look at.

Take a look at the Stohlquist Betsea. Excellent PFD designed for the female form...

2 reasons

COmfort and manuverability. Besides I grew up on the ocean and cant stand swimming in one. I swear they are even more uncomfortalbe in the water than out. I also like to be able to go under water especially when righting the boat. I tend to hold on to the hull as it comes down and am fine with it pushing me under. I always know where it is.

As stated above, if you get knocked out, almost none of us have the jacket that will roll you over. so in that instance it would not do you any good any way

and YES I know I am going to catch hell for this!

I do keep good ones on board at all times and recommend them to guests.

PDS624

2 reasons

COmfort and manuverability. - As stated above, if you get knocked out, almost none of us have the jacket that will roll you over. so in that instance it would not do you any good any way

The correct pfd takes care of the first two...And that last part - I COMPLETELY disagree with. There is so much science and testing and certifications that goes into PFD's it's crazy. I dont understand how their not MORE expensive:)

turtlecat

I COMPLETELY disagree with. There is so much science and testing and certifications that goes into PFD's it's crazy. I dont understand how their not MORE expensive:)

It is my understanding ONLY a type 1 Offshore Life Jacket will roll over an unconscience person so they are floating face up. NONE of the other class pfd are designed to do that (required much more boyancy in front vs behind the torso and also requires around the neck floatation

Like jacket info.
http://www.boatsafe.com/n…calknowhow/pfdbasics.htm

funny story:
so i am camping all weekend (this past weekend). It's about an 1/2 hour to sunset, and we have a powerboat pullup. Ends up, its a guy who used to sail very often in our area.. .and a few of the sailors know him. His gf has never been on a cat so i suggest she go out for a spin on one. she is excited to go.

I ask her bf if he wants to go out on my cat. He jumps at the chance. I ask him to please grab himself a pdf from his powerboat just so we are legal. He flips out and says "hell no, if you require me to have one, you are an incompotant skipper and i wont sail with you".

I bite my tounge and say nothing (a new skill i am learning). i figure he can stay on the island, no sweat off my brow. I am going for my 3rd sunset sail in a row, with or without him. He finally sees i am going without him and grabs a brigh orange old school pfd that has never ever been worn, and puts it on. I look at him and say "you dont have to wear it, but you have to have it incase we get pulled over i want to be legal".

his gf is on the other boat freaking out, laughing etc that he is wearing it.. as she has never seen him wear one in the 10 years they were powerboating...







edited by: MN3, Sep 20, 2010 - 01:49 PM

Way to stand your ground. You just never know...

MN3

I bite my tounge and say nothing (a new skill i am learning).

Must be a skill you started working on 28 mins before sunset this past weekend...

--
David
Memphis, TN
'84 Hobie 18
--

Quote

Must be a skill you started working on 28 mins before sunset this past weekend... icon_lol

You just made "the list" buddy (again) lol

Most pfd's won't roll you over, but they will make it easier for crew or nosy power boater to locate and roll you over. I watched my one of my crew hit the hull really hard
in the ribs. He had a kayak type pfd which didn't have any side protection. He was sore for weeks. I wear a fairly
inexpensive pfd with plenty of padding all around. Never really have a comfort issue.

--
Pete Knapp
Schodack landing,NY
Goodall Viper,AHPC Viper,Nacra I20
--

What a great picture

--
Nacra 5.2
--

:)

I finally had to go back to work...sitting out a typhoon in Hongkong tonight, or whatever the hell time it is back in the world.
Scott, I'm not endorsing the Stohlquist brand, they may or may not be any better. That just happens to be what came with a used whitewater kayak I bought for the kids. I found it to be superior to the waterski vests I was using. Comfortable, has a mesh pocket in front, doesn't get in the way of the hook, & actually has some righting ability. I don't think they meet the Coast Guard standard for righting an unconscious person, but they have more flotation material in the chest area than the back, & are more stable in the face up position.
I'm an ex competitive swimmer & lifeguard, & nobody gets on my Cat without wearing one. It is free life insurance, I'm cheap, I like free!. Stories are legion of people going overboard & dying because they couldn't be found quick enough. In rough water it is amazing how hard it can be to see a dark head on an overcast day at any distance. It only takes one mouthful of water going down the wrong tube to quickly spiral into a drowning. With a knock on the head, ribs, cracked wrist,or any other injury that impedes your previous amazing swimming ability, they just make keeping a clear airway so much easier.
If you still think they suck, at least make it easier for the Recovery people to find your body. It won't sink, & your family will be ever grateful that they didn't have to identify you after 3 days lying on the bottom,what with crayfish & all nibbling at your soft spots, marine worms crawling out, & your already overweight carcass a terribly bloated putrid mess. Also don't discount the positive effect you will have on the environment by saving the CG time, fuel & money spent "dragging the bottom".



edited by: Edchris177, Sep 21, 2010 - 05:33 PM

--
Hobie 18 Magnum
Dart 15
Mystere 6.0XL Sold Was a handful solo
Nacra 5.7
Nacra 5.0
Bombardier Invitation (Now officially DEAD)
Various other Dock cluttering WaterCrap
--

MN3

turtlecat

I COMPLETELY disagree with. There is so much science and testing and certifications that goes into PFD's it's crazy. I dont understand how their not MORE expensive:)

It is my understanding ONLY a type 1 Offshore Life Jacket will roll over an unconscience person so they are floating face up. NONE of the other class pfd are designed to do that (required much more boyancy in front vs behind the torso and also requires around the neck floatation

This made me double check my PFD...go figure right?! Mine is a type V, but performs as a type I per the tag. None of the others that I use (even in thge same brand) do that.

You are correct...dam#$it

Its against the actual question here...but I can tell you why I do wear them! One of my first experiences on a cat was in winter. I was in high school and full of...stupidity. We (all 5 or so) were on a N5.0 in the middle of a large body of water, and since it was cold - I wore jeans. The only flotation device aboard was a half empty gallon of Vodka. I got knocked off half soused in jeans and had to tread water for what seemed like forever...I was quite close to drowning when the equally soused buddies figured out how to tack. I was to lucky enough to live to learn. PFD's and beachcats are like peas and carrots to me now :)