Inflatable life rings?

[bluedragon]

I see these more and more now and they look a very neat solution vs. the awkward often manky yellow things we see on the back of most boats (with lights that never work and fall off at a touch).

There seem to be two type a) those that inflate when the canister hits the water and b) with some kind of actuating line.

So, what does the team think? Any good? Preferably input from those that have them (Plastimo, Seago, etc) rather than the luddites

 

[Searush]

As a true Luddite, can I ask how far one can throw something like a lightweight inflatable ring?

 

[bluedragon]

Dear True Luddite...one throws the canister I think and it explodes into action on contact with the water (or something like that). Actually likely to go a long way compared to the foam ones on our boats today. Well that's the theory anyway (I think)

 

[Seajet]

Years ago I had an early version of one of these inflatable liferings, shaped like a large grenade.

After quite a few rough sails when it had definitely been very wet, crew & I discussed it and decided we had no faith in it.

So we tried it over the side at the mooring...

It sank like a stone.

A modern inflatable job as well is probably a good idea, but I'll stick to things I know will work.

 

[bluedragon]

Well it looks like we're mostly luddites and nobody has bought / used one in anger, preferring the good ol' manky yellow ones that split if you try to put them around the ever-expanding waist line.

Slight deviation, but my wife remarked, "why do so many big expensive boats have faded worn-out life buoys when they only cost about £20 for a new one!"

There's even a chandlers in Plymouth that sell second-hand ones that seem to have come out a skip! Am I missing something, that these old worn-out horseshoe rings are "de rigeur" in fashionable sailing circles now?

 

[Tidewaiter2]

And, on the Web..

Well it looks like we're mostly luddites and nobody has bought / used one in anger, preferring the good ol' manky yellow ones that split if you try to put them around the ever-expanding waist line.

Slight deviation, but my wife remarked, "why do so many big expensive boats have faded worn-out life buoys when they only cost about £20 for a new one!"

There's even a chandlers in Plymouth that sell second-hand ones that seem to have come out a skip! Am I missing something, that these old worn-out horseshoe rings are "de rigeur" in fashionable sailing circles now?

You can source new covers for them, too