I have an auto inflatable pfd that I'm wearing and it's not too bad but the neck is not very flexible or cut for a 18.5" neck... so my question is will this thing break in like a pair of shoes or will I have to learn to like it as it is? Right now I'm only wearing it while motor is running... but hope to break it in and add time until I can wear it full time.

Can I put it around something round that's a tad larger than my neck to sort of stretch it out? Just looking for options, as these are still new to me.

I am committed to it, but hate being uncomfortable.

I'm with you on this one, I cannot get comfortable in mine and have actually gone back to the original. I did not like wearing it all the time. I don't care what the adds say, they are not very comfortable in my opinion.

I am in no way trying to tell someone not to wear the dang thing. It's just not for me.

What kind are you wearing?  The one time I wore a Sospenders, I found it to be a PITA.  The Mustang I have now is so comfortable I forget I'm wearing it.

I have a 17 1/2" neck and 44" chest, I use the Sospenders World Class 38 Series Long model and barely notice I have it on. I've been using mine about two years but I don't remember it ever giving me a problem.

What kind are you wearing? The one time I wore a Sospenders, I found it to be a PITA. The Mustang I have now is so comfortable I forget I'm wearing it.

It is the Sospenders. I hate the neck design on this thing. I'll just let the wife wear it.

Mine are cabela's branded.  I think they are just cut for the "average" sized guy.  (which is likely my trouble)

For those who have comfortable inflatables, were they good from day 1 or did it take a bit to get them to conform to your shape?

I've had my Mustang for a couple of months.  I've worn it around 10 times.  Never been uncomfortable.

If you're having problems in the neck area, check out the Mustang models with the neoprene collar.  I wore mine all day Saturday in 85* weather and never really knew it was there.

I have had So-Spenders, Cabelas, and now Stearns brand inflatable PFD's. All were quite comfortable. The latest ones (the Stearns) were a little stiff for a trip or two, but are pretty flexable / comfortable now.

And I'm 6'1", 250 lbs. The Stearns seem to ride up a little higher, in the front, but I'm pretty much use to it.

Anyway, I ALWAYS put my PFD on at the ramp in the morning, and take it back off at the ramp in the evening. Just having a PFD with you in the boat, is about 20% as effective as it is, if your actually wearing it at all times.

BTW, with regular, old school foam PFD's, it will get you by "legally" (in CA) to just have it in the boat..... But not so with inflatables, which actually must be worn at all times, to be considered.

Children must wear a PFD at all times (in CA) which is a GREAT law. At least they can grow up first, before they decide if they want to be stupid or not.

Peace,

Fish

My mustang has been comfortable since day 1, and I don't have a problem wearing it all tournament.

I have had a Stearns for 6-8 years and do not recall it being uncomfortable. If it had been I would not wear it now. As someone mentioned the strap does fit high on the chest.................Al