[C320-list] An Interesting perspective on Life Jackets

[Jeff Hare]

Hi,

I thought I'd share a video perspective on life jackets from Mario Vittone,
a well-respected Helicopter Rescue Swimmer. Maybe many of you have already
seen it, but it caused many of us to rethink our safety gear last summer.
If you haven't seen it, it may surprise you.

http://mariovittone.com/tag/inflatable/

As a result, we've begun the transition to low cut, active watersports style
jackets with pockets and have found some that are super comfortable.  My
on-deck complaint with our inflatable jackets has always been that they are
heavy and tend to pull on my neck forward so I take them off, lift them up
or unbuckle them after a while.

We have 6 inflatables in 3 different styles and while the newer ones are
more comfortable than the earlier models, but are still less comfortable and
more restrictive on deck than some of the new style watersports/river rapids
kayaking/SUP jackets that are designed to be lighter and less restrictive.

Of course we're all built differently and sail in different conditions,
so... what are you wearing these days?   :)

Cheers!
-Jeff Hare
#809 Woodbine II