I don't like this inflatable pfd

[Ixneigh]

So I went to west marine to buy parts for my halyard snugger. Its a small tackle with a clam cleat for gripping the halyard above the cleat. I can really pull that line now. But the jib halyard is so worn the device does not grip. Time for 2 new halyards I think. These are original to the boat. But while I was in West I saw, and bough a compact, comfortable looking inflatable pfd. Its worn around the waist and looked nice for kayaking. But when I got home and took a close look, it appears as if its only a square pillow type that is supposed to be worn on the chest when inflated. That does not look like a good idea. I think someone would quickly tire of holding their head up and forward. This is the M15 model. Anyone actually use this?

Ix

[NiceAft]

I tried looking up the product at the West Marine website. All I could come up with is this https://www.westmarine.com/buy/west-mar ... ecordNum=9 and this https://www.westmarine.com/buy/west-mar ... cordNum=10 (It also come in other colors). are either of these what you are referring to?

They all need to placed around your head after inflating (the device, not your head)

Ray

[Ixneigh]

Its the 2nd one. When inflated it is just a square air chamber you are supposed to wear on your chest. No better than a square boat cushion style throwable. I'm returning it.
Ix

[NiceAft]

Its the 2nd one. When inflated it is just a square air chamber you are supposed to wear on your chest. No better than a square boat cushion style throwable. I'm returning it.
Ix

This is what is stated in the instructions. I copied it from the Wast Marine Page.

This life vest must be manually placed around the head after inflation and is therefore recommended for competent swimmers only.

[Ixneigh]

I dont think its for any swimmer. I told them as much when I returned it. For 20 more you can buy a collar style pfd that will support a cold tired person much better.

Ix

[Tomfoolery]

AFAIK, all the belt types are recommended for strong swimmers only. I have a couple of them that came with the boat, but I don't use them. I have an auto/manual horse collar I like and use.