Life jackets recommendations

Sailingsaves said:
Harness first (ideally, but not always practicable).

I wear an auto-inflating when I sail solo (in case knocked overboard -no tether- and unconscious)

I wear a manual inflating when I am with others (so if I go in I don't waste an expensive auto re-arm kit)

All a very difficult (or time consuming) decision really.

Good luck
Click to expand...

If you put any kind of value on your life then wear a lifejacket, it's a no brainer.
Regarding the previous comment that I don't wear a self inflating type jacket when sailing with others. Why not. Is there the possibility of the boom striking your head, is it you wont become ill or accidentally fall overboard when sailing with others they are such good friends they will jump in and manually put the inflation cord for me.

If you wear a lifejacket self inflation is a must also buy one with a crotch strap you may be wearing it around your neck otherwise should you fall in.

A crotch strap on the lifejacket can keep the tea money in a good state as a fine is imposed if crew come on deck without the strap connected. Lifejackets are only useful when worn.
 
I wear a Spinlock Deckvest 275. Initially I didn't find it as comfortable as the Crewsaver Ergofit 190OS I had before (I'd gone up a level to 275 as I often wear drysuits where you need the higher level in case you've got air in your legs). I was concerned it wasn't half as comfortable as the crewsaver until I tightened up the back strap which brought it down off my neck. It's cracking now, very comfortable even when worn non stop for 10-12 hours. I went for the Hammar as the majority of my stuff is on fast open Ribs where you can get waves over them and I wanted a reduced chance of an accidental firing.

I also use buoyancy aids for jobs where I'm likely to have to enter the water and where the auto inflation of a LJ would be a real hinderance. You don't however have the backup of assistance if you go in unconscious. A LJ will turn you face up, go in face down in a buoyancy aid and you'll stay face down, albeit floating.
 
It depends what sort of sailing you intend to do but I always insist on any crew on my boat wear a lifejacket whenever they are on deck. If it is fitted and adjusted properly, even newbies get used to wearing one and sometimes forget they have them on. They are auto with harness, light, whistle and crutch strap to comply with the regs.. I needed to replace one recently and got a very nice deal from ADEC for a jacket that ticks all of my boxes (if you'll pardon the phrase). I believe that certain makes of lifejacket are overpriced, as is other equipment when purchased by "Yotties".
 
At the bottom end of the scale I bought, around 7 years ago, a couple of XM manual with harness. They are only worn at night on deck unless the weather is foul. I have two wishes about them (1) that I shall never need them and (2) that if I do, they will work.
My choice for my solo sailing.
 
I've always had automatic lifejackets and have only witnessed one going off once. It was not in a life threatening situation Mrs Moron was transferring to the boat from dinghy over reached and fell in. She is a strong swimmer so was not at risk. Even so she was quite shook up but has re-inforced my conviction that it's best to wear a LJ whenever on the water and especially when using a dinghy.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Share this page

Top