Inflatable PFDs Put to the Test

The UK-made Crewsaver's Crewfit takes first prize in our test of nine vests. The hitch—it's not USCG approved. Mustang is our runner-up.

Swimming on your stomach is hard while wearing an inflatable vest. You’re better off on your back, as demonstrated in this photo. Notice how high the vest holds this person out of the water.

The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that more than half of the people who drown following a fall from a boat would have survived had they been wearing a personal flotation device (PFD). Unfortunately, standard life vests can be very uncomfortable and are thus not always worn by the average boater. In an effort to improve this situation, the USCG began certifying inflatable PFD devices as lightweight—though not inexpensive—alternatives to the bulky foam-flotation lifejacket. Here's the bottom line: Because they're smaller and more comfortable, sailors are more likely to wear these devices more often. Our last test (October 1, 2000) was conducted on the heels of the first USCG inflatable PFD…