A Guide to Buying Life Jackets
By Anna Wallner and Kristina Matisic
In the middle of summer, our thoughts turn to outdoor activities like boating and fun on the water. But before you pack your trunks, you've got to plan to play it safe! That means investing in the right personal flotation device for you and everyone in your family:
Fit is of paramount importance. It should fit snugly without impeding movement.
Make sure any PFD you wear has been tested by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. It should say so on the label.
Red, yellow and orange colored PFDs are best for visibility. We suggest avoiding those that come in blue and green (too close to the color of the water).
Once a PFD has been altered, its safety approval is no longer assured. So when buying used, avoid the ones that have been patched, have badges or logos sewn on or have been excessively written on. And check the Coast Guard's website for any recalls (www.uscg.mil)
Consider a sport specific PFD. Kayaking PFDs have bigger armholes for ease of movement and extra straps keep water skiing vests in place during wipeouts.
PFDs with Co2 cartridges are a great choice if you don't like the constriction of other vests. They work by inflating if you fall in the water. But you need to buy a replacement cartridge every time they inflate. Not a cheap option if you get thrown in the water a lot!
Avoid buying used jackets made of kapok, which is found in some older PFDs. This is a natural fiber encased in plastic. If the plastic rips, the kapok takes on water, causing the jacket to act as an anchor, not a life preserver.
(Anna Wallner and Kristina Matisic host The Shopping Bags on Fine Living.)
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