The Personal Floatation Device 2 (PFD 2) is bulky but essential item of sailing clothing, not really thought of much outside the initial purchase, just put it on and go sailing. But before that initial purchase, think about style and function - what’s really necessary, what’s comfortable and what the rules say you must wear.
I think the aim for the racing sailor is to have the smallest and least bulky PFD possible for your body weight. Put a small one on, make sure you can take a full breath and can swing you arms, twist around freely and the like and I think you’ve got the right size.
A tighter buoyancy vest has less chance of catching on part of the boat, such as the boom during a tack. Also, if you choose one that hugs you like a two year old’s floaties it will work better in the water, reducing drag when swimming and of course, providing effective buoyancy. Avoid a vest that wants to ride up around the neck as it won’t keep you afloat properly and will become annoying while sailing.
To be worn with a trapeze harness, the vest must be short to the waist so the hook is clear. A popular style at the moment is one that sashes over your head and has a Velcro adjustment to get it tight around the lower chest.
To go racing with a new PFD you should check that it meets a safety standard - in Australia AS1512 on the vest’s label is acceptable. Note that for events in Australia not using AYF prescriptions (including most championships that include overseas entrants) the Racing Rules just require that the PFD be ‘adequate for the conditions’. However, in Australian events using AYF prescriptions (like State or National titles), the PFD must be either to Australian standard or to an overseas standard that is equal or better.
It’s interesting that the Australian standards for PFDs are higher than many countries, meaning thicker and heavier foam inserts for us.
A good additional feature to your PFD is a small mesh pocket or pouch, Velcro sealed. They can be handy for a spare protest flag or sunscreen stick.
© Michael Blackburn
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