What are some models of non inflatable PFD's that you all could recommend? 

I currently own (2) bass pro shops branded inflatable PFD's which reside on my boat, however the thought has occurred to me more than once..."what if this thing doesn't deploy when I need it to?!"

I've recently found that a fellow BR member and I share this thought so I figured I'd ask you all for some recommendations on eliminating it.

 

Hope this Helps

A-Jay

Must have not been fully awake when I read the heading on the post the first time, but I'll leave this anyway.  

 

That's kinda like asking what's the best ice cream.

It depends on what you want to spend on initial cost and then required maintenance.  

Mustang's HIT systems is probably one of the best but at the same time, the most expensive when it can cost upwards of close to $100 every few years to keep it up to date.

However, with it, I've never had one to go off on it's on from being stored in a warm, humid area.

 

The next popular models have the auto inflate system that deploys within seconds of being in contact with the water.  Those only cost a few bucks to update every few years, but they can self deploy when in a warm humid area.  I've had that to happen a couple of times stored in the boat.

Then you have the manual deploy models.  I consider those more of a safety device for fly fishermen or people that a likely to step into deep water.  If ejected from a fast moving boat, there is nothing saying you will be conscious to pull the manual deploy mechanism.  You don't have to worry about it self deploying if you happen to trip or fall down in the water like the auto inflate models will.  

 

From there, it's mostly based on size and style.

Foam life jackets are easy! Just walk into a store and check them out, there’s usually a massive selection. And they are all made of the same thing, just choose which fits your body the best. I personally have about a dozen of them haha. A few brands I’ve got are onyx, astral, and O’Brien. Believe it or not, the rescue teams and police/fire/DNR will most likely tell you the orange ones that go around your neck for $5 are the safest PFD. Always good to keep your breather above the water line! 

 I like this one when I’m swimming around in the lake relaxing. It holds me way up out of the water 

3 hours ago, Kyle S said:

What are some models of non inflatable PFD's that you all could recommend? 

I currently own (2) bass pro shops branded inflatable PFD's which reside on my boat, however the thought has occurred to me more than once..."what if this thing doesn't deploy when I need it to?!"

I've recently found that a fellow BR member and I share this thought so I figured I'd ask you all for some recommendations on eliminating it.

 

Mustang 100 mph for when boat is under big motor power. Mustang inflatable when fishing. Buy the best you can afford. It’s way more important than your rods or reels.

For a NON INFLATEABLE I use the 100mph.  Until recently, I've always had fast boats.

I would recommend one that fits and comfortable or you will have a tendency not to put it on.  Especially when it's hot.

I've got a Flowt comfort mesh. It really is comfortable all day in the canoe, USCG type III certified.

 

I don't remember what brand mine is but I liked the colors and it fits well. I don't think it matters what brand.