The thing that everybody tells you about buying a PFD turned out to be exactly true for me, namely, you've got to try it on.  I was sure after doing all the research and seeing what other people liked and looking at the pictures, that I was going to buy a Kokatat Bahia.  Absolutely positive, no doubt in my mind.  I was just about to order one on-line because it was cheaper that way but decided I would, reluctantly, go and try a few on.  Sure enough the Bahia wasn't for me.  I ended up with the Orbit which was perfect.  For my wife, on the other hand, the Orbit didn't work at all.  So I'm glad to hear you're trying at least a couple on.  But if you live in the Chicago suburbs why not take an afternoon and go down to your friendly neighbourhood outfitter and try on a bunch.  Its a pretty important purchase and it's like everyone says, you're not going to wear it if it isn't comfortable.
Good hunting.