I have a Mustang auto inflate, the original before they came out with the hydrostatic device.

 

I'm in the minority, but I don't like it.  I don't necessarily dislike it, but no matter how I adjust it, it kind of moves around on your body.  Then, you also need to replace the CO2 cartridge every three years, if memory serves.

 

Murphy's law:  If something can go wrong, it will go wrong, at the most inopportune time.  I have the type with three straps across the front.  I can adjust it snugly.  It will fit under my foul weather gear, or a jacket in cooler weather.  If it's being worn, it cannot fail.  It's also yellow, which does at least two things.  It reflects the sun on hot days, and more importantly, should I end up in the drink, it's much more visible to any one who is rescuing me, or, recovering my body.

 

Another important factor.  It doesn't inhibit any body movements.

 

The first thing I do when I step onto the boat is to put it on.  When I'm fishing from my canoe, it goes on before I step into the boat.  It comes off when I get out of the boat.

 

 

 

Different strokes for different folks.

I bought one of the self inflatable ones. It is light, not bulky and will inflate if you go in water or manually inflate it. on sale $80.00, like it, now when I fish with my kayak i have more freedom and do not get hot.

Best money I spent for me and my kayak.