Quote:
Originally Posted by mikecollins86
I like that the jacket doubles as a class III life jacket!Anybody have this and can report on the flotation abilities...especially for us 'larger types'?
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I've got a few Mustang Flotation jackets which I use on boats, both a bomber style and full length one. They have been making these things for a long time and flotation wise they are great. Just as good or better then a good vest, and unlike a vest they keep you warmer when actually in the water.
The issue for kayaking is that the foam they use is thick about one inch and it cuts down on your arm mobility and interferes with paddling to some extent. You can get used to them but they defiantly do cut down on your freedom of movement.
The shorter bomber styles have the thicker foam so they are the stiffest.
The full sized mustangs are better.
Though they have the same amount of flotation it's spread out and thinner so it's more flexible.
Another issue is that the foam is rubbery and does not breath at all. So they do not breath well in general, and you can get pretty sweaty and damp in them when paddling. They shed water great but the are not sealed at the waist so they are not going to keep water out of your waders if you roll. It would be great if Mustang made one specifically for kayaking.
Fantastic on a boat though, can't beat them, but for now I stick to kayak gear when paddling.
Jim