aSEA

[lefty]

Product Manufacturer: Stohlquist

Specifically for boaters looking for s soft, form fitting vest with added ventilation and the performance of a high cut back. Back side has half flotation / half cool mesh to fit comfortably above the seat back found in many of today’s rec-tour boats. Easy click-in front entry. Wide range of adjustability at sides and shoulders means that one aSea size fits most all.

Features:
• Longer torso for added coverage.
• 3M reflective on front and back
• Open sides for ventilation
• Neoprene padded back lower waistband
• 1-1/2" webbing belt, dual forward pulls for a trim and low profile fit
• Bellows pocket with drainage.
• Two flat pockets expand for beverage can or bottle.
• MeshBack rides high above back rest
• Adjustable 1-1/2" webbing shoulder and side pulls
• Cinch harness
• Approved: US Coast Guard, Transport Canada, CE

[lefty]

Price Paid: 70

Recommended: yes

Cons: Gear-lashing options are limited

Pros: Comfortable

This was my first "real" PFD, the first one that didn't come from Walmart. It's worked well for me over a year's time. The only times I felt it was uncomfortable was when I added insulating layers (and waterproofing layers) underneath, in cold weather. I wear it full-time when I'm in the kayak. (Or "on", I suppose.)

The only thing I've not been impressed with, is that I've tried to clip a dive knife to it, and I'm running low on locations for it. There's only one lashtab on the PFD, and it's behind the left shoulder. Yup, on the back. Not 100% sure what they had in mind for a tab on the back. The pockets are OK, but the combination of the buckles and velcro seems to make them a bit cumbersome. I keep a measuring tape in there, and occasionally a pair of scissors.

I've upgraded to a Stohlquist Fisherman... looking forward to better gear placement.