Will this PFD work for paddling coastal waters?

[oceanAddict]

Hi,

New to sport but not to ocean. As we all know from our riding days - ATGATT ("All the gear , all the time") I'm gearing up for cruising in Boston Harbor (Broad Sound to be exact), and was wondering if this PFD would work for that purpose.



 I have in since my sailing days.. I will check expiration date/ replace cartridge if necessary. The question if anyone used it and it's comfortable to wear for paddling...
 I might buy specific PDF later when I understand what I need, don't want to rush to buy or postpone water time

Thanks in advance
oA

 

 

[Bean]

I have a similar harness style manual-pull inflatable that I use on boats.  But when I use a PFD on my SUP I prefer the belt style because I find the harness style a little too bulky for paddling and getting back on the board.  Aside from the convenience/ comfort factor, you can definitely use it.  The only thing I would be concerned with is making sure that it is not an automatic-inflatable (which of course will inflate anytime you fall in). 

With any inflatable just make sure you know how to inflate it both with the manual-pull and the mouth tube and make sure the whistle is still inside.

[oceanAddict]

Ok , thanks for advice. Yes, its not automatic.  I def will buy dedicated SUP PDF just want to read a bit more and visit a store or two to try actual fit..

[Eagle]

My wife uses the harness inflatable and I use a waist inflatable.  The benefit to the harness is that the PFD is already placed over your head.  The con is that it is a more bulky and less comfortable.  So definitely use that for now.  In adverse conditions - we both use a full size approved PFD.  We also always wear leashes in the ocean.  Losing contact and having your board drift away especially in cold water can be very dangerous.

[PDLSFR]

 oceanAddict here is the Massachusetts regulations:

[yugi]

those work and respect the rules.

In time I'd add
   https://www.restube.com/de/
It way smaller and, in my experience, satisfy law enforcers.

We've educated our local water law enforcement that leashes are really what matter but they have a job to do to respect the law so they need to see something. They need t see something. Ours are very happy with a Restube.

[Bean]

The Restube does seem more intuitive than inflatable PFDs which essentially have to put on when you are already in the water.

[yugi]

if you really need help waving it will work much better than waving your paddle! Or your classic PFD.

Used by lifeguards here, and a few success stories. I'd take mine for long distance open water swims.

[hbsteve]

Those regulations are interesting.  They make no mention of Type V.
I originally bought a Type V inflatable belt pfd.  The labeling stated it must be worn. 
I recently upgraded to a Type III inflatable belt pfd.  It can be carried or worn.

[CascadeSup]

Those regulations are interesting.  They make no mention of Type V.
I originally bought a Type V inflatable belt pfd.  The labeling stated it must be worn. 
I recently upgraded to a Type III inflatable belt pfd.  It can be carried or worn.

It does mention Type V, you must have missed it in the fine print:
"SUP users may elect to wear a Type V inflatable device; however, the device must be worn on the person in accordance with legal requirements."

[stoneaxe]

I started with one just like it. Used it for my 1st winter, paddled 100's of miles in it. Then got a MTI beltpack. A beltpack is the way to go...at least for me. Comfort is my 1st concern since my board is my real safety.