I'm no expert in this field but there are auto inflate and manual inflate ones.  I think the manual ones are useless because if you fall over and get knocked out, what good is it?

I would highly recommend the Mustang Hydrostatic. They are expensive but will only inflate if they are immersed approximately 4 inches. They will not inflate due to rain, humidity, etc., like the regular auto inflates. That's why I bought mine. If I couldn't wear it in all conditions, it wouldn't do me any good. I wear it all the time, even in the summer, and forget I have it on. I have worn one of these for several years in all conditions and can vouch for them. As a matter of fact, a year ago I had a steering malfunction and was thrown out of my boat while wearing my Mustang. It worked perfectly and literally saved my life.

I also sail during the summer time and I also would recommend the mustang. Here is some info. They are spendy but well worth the money.

Mustang Survival  Inflatable Vest  w/ L.I.F.T. PFD

The Inflatable Vest with LIFT PFD, featured in the Mustang OCX line, delivers a high level of safety for users in variable wind and wave conditions by elevating the wearers mouth out of the water by up to 9 inches (23cm). Known as freeboard, this increase in elevation has been shown to reduce underwater mouth immersions by 80%, increasing the chance of survival in accidental immersion situations.

The LIFT System LIFT [Life-saving Inflatable Flotation Technology] is a revolutionary flotation cell system, designed to lift you out of the water, & keep you there. By elevating the body & maintaining an upright position, LIFT ensures that you’re less likely to swallow water caused by rough seas & chop. And by keeping more of you out of the water, it delays hypothermia.

The LIFT cell design delivers over 40 pounds of buoyancy & about 9" of freeboard (distance between the water’s surface & your mouth) — the highest ever seen in a PFD. LIFT is light, comfortable, & ergonomically designed. You can’t even tell you’re wearing it until you need it.

A perfect product fit for performance sailors and power boaters, the Inflatable Vest with LIFT PFD is also an excellent choice for individuals who desire added protection. Constructed with a highly durable wind and waterproof fabric, the vest is a lightweight product designed with a shorter length and a low and flexible profile ensuring users maximum mobility during even the most rigorous activities. A removable sailing harness is available for purchase separately (see below).

MD0450 Hammar 1F Hydrostatic Automatic Inflation
The hydrostatic inflator needs only to be submerged 4 inches (10 cm) for the hydrostatic pressure to open a pressure valve releasing a firing mechanism, automatically inflating the PFD or when wearer pulls activation cord.

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Concerning the life jacket issue:  This is a very valid concern, but have you thought about how you are going to get back in the boat?

We have already been through this process.  My boat has a flip down ladder that makes boarding easy.  If you do not have a ladder, another option is using the tilt-trim.  With this option, straddle the foot of the engine and press the up button.  If you do not have a tilt-trim, consider always fishing with a partner.

Dr T