Best inflatable life vest?

[Diatom]

I'm using a Spinlock Lite+ for a few reasons:

• the security of a crotch strap
• ultralight, unobtrusive design
• I was put off by recall notices accompanying the alternative on some retail sites

Why an inflatable? The thing is light as a feather, forgotten once its on, no impediment to tight quarters operation; continuously wearable. Especially: I have a habit of accessing the bow (anchoring/mooring) by climbing out a V-Berth hatch (C26, don't like inching along the narrow gunwales while solo) - and being a wee bit stout these days means I can't exit the hatches wearing a foam lifejacket.

/Diatom

 

[Midwest Jeff]

My top choice so far is Mustang Survival MIT 70 automatic model. $140 seems reasonable and reviews are very good. The more research I did made me go towards an automatic for ultimate safety. Haven't bought it yet, but seems like a good choice. Opinions please.

 

[gswearin]

I have the MIT 100s and like them. very comfortable. I'd think the 70 would be even better feel.

 

[SJI Sailor]

Just to chime in with my answer: the best inflatable is one you will wear, and ideally so comfortable you forget you're wearing it. Go to a shop with many of them in stock and find the one that best fits you. Watch out in particular for areas that rub the neck, collar, etc.

For me that is a west marine offshore vest I've had for years, but differs for everyone!

 

[Midwest Jeff]

I agree that the right vest is the one that fits properly. However, we do not live in an area that has a store that we can test different vests. So hopefully the MIT 70's are good fit. Fingers crossed. Thanks

 

[scross]

We would like to invest in good quality inflatable life vests. Please let me know some good choices that you have experience with. Thanks

As a result of this thread we have significantly adjusted our onboard life jacket inventory.
This is what we keep on board. A mixed solution for keeping us both legal and comfortable:
Easily Accessible in cabin:

• 2 Stearns Type III Foam Level 70
• 1 Mustang Survival HIT Auto Inflatable Level 150
• 1 West Marine Offshore Auto Inflatable Level 150

For Dinghy & SUP (+Boat if Worn)

• 1 Onyx M-24 Manual Belt Level 100
• 2 Onyx M-24 Manual Vest Level 100

For Guests as Needed (Cargo Box storage when no guests onboard)

• 2 Kent Adult Type 2 Orange Level 70
• 2 Body Glove Phantom Mens X-S/S Type III Level 70 (28-32” Chest)

Also, we carry 2 Type IV throwable devices. And a throw line bag.

Yes, I know this seems like overkill but -
We prefer wearing the auto inflatable type jackets on the boat but to be legal we would have to wear them full time. Don’t see sleeping with one on. So, that means keeping the inflatables we wear during the daytime and owning foam types readily accessible to keep us legal.
For SUP and dinghy use we also prefer inflatables but not automatic inflatables. Thus the three manual inflatables for those purposes. The Onyx M24’s were inexpensive to buy ($65/each) and don’t take up much space so an easy addition.

 

[MOwcean]

I am currently in the purchase process and Mustang has "convertible" PFD's (for my wife and I, we are looking at the MIT 100's) that you can use as automatic or manual (good if you want to use them on stand up paddle boards for instance). There are good prices on these right now with local boats shows on.

 

[Rocky Lou]

I am currently in the purchase process and Mustang has "convertible" PFD's (for my wife and I, we are looking at the MIT 100's) that you can use as automatic or manual (good if you want to use them on stand up paddle boards for instance). There are good prices on these right now with local boats shows on.

Looks to be on clearance: https://mustangsurvival.com/collections/outlet
or: https://www.amazon.com/Mustang-Survival-M-I-T-Manual-Activation/dp/B0BBSP5HTF?th=1

I may order a couple....

 

[gswearin]

Note that unless they've changed the design the "convertible" feature is that you have to disassemble and remove the water activated component. Not a bit deal, takes about 5 minutes, but also not just flipping a switch.

 

[Midwest Jeff]

Update! Ended up buying the Onyx A/M 24 auto/man vests. It is the best selling model on Amazon with almost 3000 4.7 reviews. Little over $100. After receiving them I feel they are of good quality. We even compared them to my sons Mustang Hydrostatic, and the materials looks and feel similar. I guess my thinking is if we actually use them often then we may upgrade in a couple years. However, many have used this model with no issues for more than 5 years.