Quote:

Hi, ST.  I actually bought this vest based on a recommendation I think you provided last year.  It is quite comfortable and I like the velcro pockets for a small ditch kit.  Still, on most paddling days, I don't wear it.  Now, it is right behind my seat should anything go awry.  When the wind and waves are up, I'll put it on.  It is indeed a good, inexpensive, lightweight pfd for canoe trips.

I'm glad you like the vest, but my take is that like a seatbelt it's only good worn before you have a problem.
Let's assume for a minute your paddling on a calm day, maybe across a big expanse of water. For whatever reason you find yourself in the drink.
Even without wind and waves, try and put that PFD on :-[
Try it yourself. Go to the nearest lake, dump your canoe and try to put that vest on. You'll be surprised how hard it is to do. Now imagine a little breeze pushing it out of your reach? All of a sudden your a long way from shore with a swamped canoe and wondering if you can right it or push it to shore? Maybe you can, but having a PFD keeping you buoyant would mean more energy left for getting you back in your boat.
On the hottest days, I'll leave the PFD unzipped but waist straps snug enough it can't come off. I'd sooner canoe solo buck-ass naked wearing my PFD, than go without.
Fortunately I've never been that warm and you guys can rest easy on that ;D