Too much stuff in the way, and no lower strap

By jay2515378 Ranked #384 - Kayak Clothing October 30, 2008

I kayak fish constantly in ocean conditions in Northern California and at first I thought this was the ideal vest for me. After about a year of use I'm looking for something else. The number of pockets was a draw for me, but I'm realizing that I keep most of my tackle on the boat and the pockets go empty. Also, as I improve my skills and during self rescue practice I find that the pockets get in the way of efficiently getting back on board the boat. And finally, there are only two straps to tighten this vest and no strap along the bottom of the vest. When I am in the water the vest rides up without a lower strap to hold the vest below my rib cage.

This might be a good entry level purchase, but I wouldn't recommend it. If you like all the pockets and don't mind the little bit of extra effort required for self rescue, then I would recommend that you go with the Extrasport Striper instead. The Striper has the lower strap that will improve your flotation and comfort should you end up in the water in an emergency.

For me, I moved on to the Kokatat Bahia Tour. Pockets are big enough for my VHF radio, and are smooth enough not to get in the way during self rescue. Additionally, it has the needed lower strap.

View Details: Extrasport Osprey Personal Flotation Device

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes