I hardly ever used to wear mine. I thought it was too uncomfortable and I'm a pretty good swimmer and quite capable in a canoe. But then when I started taking occasional groups of kids, scouts and church, I figured I should also be wearing one since I was making the kids wear one. I just didn't want to be a hypocrate. I eventually but a slightly better mesh top vest and got used to it. Now it feels strange without it and I have a hard time not wearing it.