PFD recommendation

[deano]

Thanks for all the input guys. Went and picked up an Ultra Trek yesterday.
One step closer to getting out on the water!
cheers

[yakatak]

My opinion, inflatable pfd's are not suitable to be worn on a kayak and first hand experience has justified the reason, now that said, a lot will disagree and do use them. Probably the best inflatable I have seen yet is a type 1 and was designed specifically for kayaks, it is the Hobie Outdoorsman Inflatable PFD, Yakass (Josh) did a bit of a review here; http://yakabout.com.au/home/content/view/1298/101/ , the vest is made by Stormy for Hobie Aust, they have other vests here; http://www.stormyaustralia.com/. Another mob I have seen and don't look bad but never tried https://pfdsales.com.au/

I prefer a foam flotation pfd type 2, may not have the flotation of a type 1 but will assist far better if struck in the head (note does not have a colar (type1) to support your head) as it is already buoyant, It won't be as comfortable but is certainly bearable and wearable. Stholquist have a great range including the "Fisherman" it's a great looking pfd with loads of storage but as Nasman pointed out, not approved for Australian standards. Not that it won't pass, just has not been put up to be tested by Stholquist and a damn shame, would have had one years ago if they were.

Two I like are the Ultra Trek and Ultra Pinnacle (eyeing this one off myself) view here; http://acwsports.com.au/pfd.htm .
Cannot remember the brand I am currently using, it does ok but has no decent storage pockets. Look for something that will at least hold a knife, whistle, VHF (handheld) and PLB also handy if it will hold pliers and some basic first aid stuff, I also carry some water dye to make my position more visible if separated from my kayak.

Hey ELM
I am also looking at the Ultra Pinnacle but the link you gave shows a differant Ultra Pinnacle than the one I am looking at on the Ultrapfd Web Page, Check It out http://www.ultrapfd.com.au/default.asp?PageID=62
I wonder if the link you have is the older model??
Cheers Al

[Babylon]

I have just picked up an ultra trek today and am very happy with it
heaps better than what i was using.cheers Jim

[deano]

Yeah they are good aren't they Jim. Not uncomfortable at all, and it's good for peace of mind rather than the inflatables. IMO anyway.
Cheers