Hydrostatic Inflatable PFD

I have always assumed that you couldn't use an auto inflate PFD in our boats because of the solid water we take to the chest often in rough seas. There are claims that the Hydrostatic models such as by Mustang won't inflate under those conditions. Do any of you have experience with these? There is also a "west marine by mustang" model on sale now.

Thanks!

I would hate to be flying along huge spray-covered grin on my face oly to have the crap scared out of me by an "exploding" PFD bladder. Power boat people have no idea what "airborne spray" really means.

Get a manually inflatable one (preferably with thigh loops), and you will be fine. If conditions are a bit worrying, put a few puffs in the mouthpiece for peace of mind, and you are good to go.

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Tony Stott
2012 Tandem Island "SIC EM" with Hobie spinnaker

I use a Cabela's Tournament 3500 Auto PFD. I've been out several times in very rough seas with it and was thoroughly soaked from head to toe by breakers and it didn't inflate. It's designed to have to be completely immersed in order to inflate, the auto mechanism is protected quite well from splashing. However most auto pfd manufacturers don't recommend an auto pfd for use where it can be soaked. The mechanism can be altered to be a manual inflate only but because this is a safety device it should not be tampered with. If you want the advantages of a less bulky pfd and you're ok with pulling an inflator cord then just buy a manual model, they're less expensive.

The hydrostatic HIT PFDs require submersion to deploy. Could a big wave cause deployment? Possibly. However, these systems have been thoroughly tested over thousands of sailing miles on offshore passages and do not have a problem with big splashes. To me, the security of knowing it will deploy if I'm unconscious outweighs the risk of accidental deployment due to a big wave. I've been hit pretty hard and never had a premature or accidental deployment. If you do go the inflatable route - regardless of technology - get leg straps. They'll prevent the PFD from riding too high (and/or sliding off) when deployed. Also, consider getting one with a built in harness. Makes a convenient tether attachment. West Marine version very similar to the Mustang. Boating magazine did a comparison and found a slightly longer time deployment time for the former. Also, consider the Spinlock Deckvest. Similar price but includes leg straps, tether ring and strobe light.


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EDIT: Sorry - the conversion kit is for the dissolving sensor model
- not the hydrostatic

I see that the Spinlock has a very simple Manual conversion kit. Maybe that is the way to go for the best of both worlds. Manual for the hobie island and auto for the big boat where there is probably a higher chance of being knocked out and overboard.

Thanks for the input so far!