LSJ vs Buoyancy aid

[oldbilbo]

Sure, LSJs are the right product for use on board the boat, and 'das boot' is so equipped. And they're fairly expensive. What I wish to explore is the need and the solution when using the tender - perhaps the most likely activity to generate the need for immediate flotation support, given the problem of clambering up into and down from the family yot.

There is a tendency not to take/use the expensive LSJs, for a variety of reasons - some of less validity than others, but with the same outcome. Nothing worn while transiting in the dinghy....

I'd like to have flotation aids ( herrnit! nearly said 'flirtation' ) dedicated to dinghy use, that live with the dinghy bits and pieces. What does the team think?

 

[prv]

I came to the same conclusion. Bought four old and paint-spattered (but still sound) buoyancy aids off eBay to use in the dinghy. Don't look worth nicking, so I can leave them in the dinghy instead of traipsing around town with expensive inflatables. Also probably more useful in a "tipped into the harbour" incident than being trussed up in the full monty.

Main downside is having to find space to store a load of foam on board. Dunno how that will play out as I get the boat back into commission and decide what to stow where.

Pete

 

[William_H]

I use the life vest almost universally on my boat although I have the inflatable type to keep it legal. They are far better for swimming in and of course don't have to be inflated. Another bonus is that they keep you warm and insulated from bruising when the wind comes up. Yes they won't keep your head up if you are unconscious but then a manual inflatable won't help much then either.
The last life vest I made myself and for myself from old sail bag (red) filled with high density foam as used for sleeping mats for hikers. It is comfortable and certainly provides floatation. A good winter project. good luck olewill

 

[Searush]

If out in the GP14 we only ever use BAs, & I keep several on SR for larking about in the sea or dinghy trips ashore, along with various wet suit kit. The auto L/Js stay in the hanging locker unless needed in dodgy weather. I have loads of underseat lockers & one of them holds all the B/As & some ancient BOAC manual gas inflatables (also for dossing about)

I have used auto L/Js to dinghy ashore & usually just wear them when wandering around town - sometimes under a jacket, but you have to remember to wear them over all the clothing when back on the water. As stated, ebay or the for sale forum regularly have the older style B/A's quite cheap.