I've just read that they won't accept inflatable PFD type 1 lifejackets! Not impressed, wearing a bulky PFD to paddle over 23km is not going to be comfortable.

Full points to WA, yet again the nanny state!

That is not right. They will accept inflatable ones that have a gas cannister. The one I have has a gas cannister and you pull a rope and it blows up. The cannisters are replaceable

Sorry guys, but are you sure? I received this today in an email - PFD's must be worn and be able to support your body weight (those that need to be inflated are not acceptable)

I haven't checked back thru the notice of race though.

I hope this isn't the case, I'd seriously consider pulling out if it was.

Goochi said...

I've just read that they won't accept inflatable PFD type 1 lifejackets! Not impressed, wearing a bulky PFD to paddle over 23km is not going to be comfortable.

Full points to WA, yet again the nanny state!

Tell who ever "them" is that is your just riding a surfboard with a paddle coz ya got a bad back. AND TO MIND THEIR OWN F**KING BUISNESS[}:)]

they are a bum bag type setup, so you are wearing it.

last year there as a topic on pfd's. i ended up buying a pinnacle ultra type 2. i was assured it would be comfortable.

well it isn't at all. i can't even bring my self to use it. just putting one on at home i feel heated up. it feels really restrictive just mimicing some strokes. kayakers etc don't pull down and twist along the side of their bodies like oc's and sups paddlers. i even took out some of the padding to no avail

i sure hope we can use the bum bag/canister type 1 pfd for a long time yet. they are easily the most comfortable option imo. they are exceptable in our neck of the woods.

thinking maybe in vicca you guys mightn't feel the heat that generates in these things. even a dark rashie gets hot up here

I would have loved to do the Doctor but haven't really got the right board or done any down winding etc yet (JL Mano in waves)..... maybe next year.

I recently did the Redbull Rotto to Leighton kite surf race though and bought a pull the cord to inflate canister type PFD from Anaconda for about $70 from memory, it was an over your head type but I don't think it would be that restrictive to paddle in.

OG SUP said...


Just make sure that the inflatable PFD1 is not a self inflating style or the first time you fall in will be entertaining

Phill

This is exactly what happened to my mate that thought he had a pull to inflate one, I didn't witness it but apparently it was funny as....for all that saw it... maybe not so funny for him.

This is taken from the doctor rules and equipment - All paddlers must wear lifejackets capable of supporting their own weight (can not be blow up type unless they are fitted with a cannister that inflates the jacket).
sorry for the alarm, but I had got the previous quote from an updated email, you'd think they would be consistent!

Anyway, looks like you can use inflatable canister style-which is what I have and they are fine to paddle with. I full, bulky PFD is not comfortable to Paddle with so I would recommend getting the canister style.

They interchange the word PFD with life jacket. There are 3 types of PFD and the only type you can call a lifejacket is a PFD type 1 - which has a collar and reflective tape. A buoyancy vest- slimmer and commonly used for paddling, sailing, etc is a PFD type 2.

Cheers and good luck

Gooch

Thanks for the correction greeny

^^^How do these work Hilly?

Greenroom said...

^^^How do these work Hilly?

It's a standard inflatable life jacket that's stored in a bum bag, when you need to use it you take it out put it over your head and then pull the inflation tab.

While everyone looks for the least restrictive life jacket option please remember that when you really need a life jacket (ie concusion, dislocation, serious flesh wound.....) the above option is dam near usless. Just saying

hilly said...

I phoned Oceanpaddler they said a PFD type 2 was ok.

If I do it I will get the waist type pfd 1 that are $77 from ultra http://www.ultrapfd.com.au/default.asp?PageID=24

That looks to be the go if you are allowed to wear it like that in the bag (which I believe you should). Out of the bag it looks just like the one I have which wasn't very restrictive for kiting but for paddling I know even my camelback straps can be uncomfortable.

OG SUP said...

Ha Ha Ha Lacey we would wear them just to keep warm!

Solas Imersion Suit.



Just make sure that the inflatable PFD1 is not a self inflating style or the first time you fall in will be entertaining

Phill


Cracking me up, how good would the Maui bra boys look wearing this?