Time for a new PFD

I hear people say Stohquist, but which model?
Is there a better vest? theautomatic inflatable ones are out because
I get wet A LOT. and the manual ones, to me, defeat the purpose...If i'm conscious enough to pull a chord I'm good enough to swim!
So Inflatables are out, no exceptions
What is the prize cow of life vests?
I don't really race but I do trap most of the time.

Right now I use one of these

With a grommet in the "abs" for my trap hook It works OK but I've got the itch for an upgrade.
(my old man needs one too and he's not such a hot swimmer. right now iIve got him wearing a jet ski vest but it rubs his under arms)
Any and all suggestions are welcome.

_________________
Jack

Zhik

A Zhik vest is not a PFD - it says so right on the package insert.

It's a "buoyancy aid". Like those floatie wings you wear in the pool, Karl.

However, if you don't race, and you don't care that the Zhik vest isn't USCG approved, then yes - they are the shiz.

Otherwise, Stohlquist, Astral, ExtraSport and even Hobie have models that are quite good. Try http://www.apsltd.com for a start.

I really like Kokatat OutFIT Tour
I have it in Red and it has a pocket that is good for may radio and another for some gear and a hobie tool. for sailing in Monterey Bay or San Francisco Bay, it has safety features.

"Deep cut neck and arm holes allow maximum range of motion, while the back panel of this PFD is cut high for added coverage. Front and rear reflective tape and strobe lash tab are added safety features, while the vertical pocket can carry a cell phone, GPS or pencil flares. Made with GAIA® PVC-free foam."

http://www.kokatat.com/product_detail.asp?code=oft

_________________
Dwight Manning
Hobie 20 #916 San Jose CA 2000 Alter Cup
Hobie 20 #16 San Jose CA (Jordan) 2000 Alter Cup
Hobie 18 #916 Santa Cruz CA 1989 Worlds Boat
Hobie 16 #16 San Jose CA (Jordan) 2005 Custom Main
Hobie 16 #54466 Calling Lake Alta Tequila sunrise

Right....

Euphemisms Personal Flotation Device = Flotation Aid.

No, its not coast guard approved, yes you can get a ticket or get protested at a regatta. Prepare to have such discrepancies handled in the parking lot.

Man if I didn't know you Karl I'd think you were a bad ass!

But I know you...