I suspect many folks don't wear a PFD because they are uncomfortable. I tend to agree and that is why I went with an inflatable. After my recent "awkward moment" where I found myself most unexpectedly in the drink I can suggest their effectiveness first hand.

I always have it on and feel incomplete with out it on. Nice thing about it is I forget I have it on because it is so comfortable. I started out with a pull cord model. These are good but since I also use it on power boats I opted for a hydrostatic model when I decided that anyone on my boat had to wear a PFD so now I have 2. I wear the hydrostatic model whenever I am on the water. It will not activate due to rain, only water pressure will do the job. I have a mustang hydrostatic model and it is rated for offshore work with 35lbs of flotation. It is what the U.S. coast guard wears as well as many state DNR officers. Like I said you don't even know you are wearing it.

Price is a consideration. The pull cord models will run you about 100 bucks and the hydrostatic ones double that. The re-arm kit will also set you back. The re-arm for the hydrostatic was 80 bucks. They claim at least 5 years and there is a green circle letting you know you are good to go. Red is bad........

I had thought it would be prudent to have a re-arm kit with me but after becoming familiar with the model I have I think it not a must. The reason being is that there is an air stem that pops up more or less near your face when the breakaway zipper pops when it is armed. After letting out all the air to re-arm I decided to blow the bladder up and was surprised at just how few breaths it took. I'll hold onto the boat and blow it up in the unlikely event I ever dump twice on the same trip. Naturally it is a one way valve and needs to be depressed to release the air.

Anyway, this may be an option for some who, like me, detest the thought of wearing a bulky life jacket and probably would just set it aside. I was very glad to have had mine on as I was surprised at just how deep in the water I was until it inflated and popped me right up. Nice!