Kayak anglers: Which inflatable PFD do you recommend?

[freelancer27]

Hi all, 

I am in the market for a quality inflatable PFD and would like to get some feedback from people that have been using these, since I am not seeing enough reviews online.

What I am looking for:

* Light and comfortable inflatable PFD (I am 6'3, 220 #)

* Automatic activation when and only when getting submerged and not in rain or when I get wet from waves, etc.
* A pocket for my keys/ phone would be a nice to have
* No price limit (safety is absolutely important to me/wife)

Options that I am looking at:

* Mustang: https://mustangsurvival.com/collections/inflatable-pfds/products/hit-inflatable-pfd-with-sailing-harness-auto-hydrostatic-md3184-02
* Onyx: https://www.hodgesmarine.com/ony133600-100-004-15-onyx-a33-insight-deluxe-tournament-automatic.html?gclid=CjwKCAiAt9z-BRBCEiwA_bWv-FzJpRg-gxxW3OQligWxgyJw1dTDsEVyjD1tLq1v6pjlXMB2RtsK8hoCzfgQAvD_BwE

Thanks for your feedback and advice!

[Choporoz]

No inflatables to compare it to, but I have, and really like Mustang MIT 100.  Incredibly comfortable, but like you, I'd prefer it if it had a pocket. I wore it through hours long downpours without it activating.

 

[diehardbassfishing]

Hydrostatic.

Much better emergency pull handle.

Ultra comfortable - not neck focused support - shell for vest goes up the back.

 

 

https://mustangsurvival.com/collections/inflatable-pfds/products/elite-28-inflatable-pfd-auto-hydrostatic-md5183

 

 

Karl

[freelancer27]

I ordered the Onyx one. I tried the Mustand today at WestMarine. And while I like it, I like the ability to decide between Auto and Manual and also prefer some small pockets.

Will report back on my experience.

Thanks all for your input!

[Teal]

7 hours ago, freelancer27 said:

I ordered the Onyx one. I tried the Mustand today at WestMarine. And while I like it, I like the ability to decide between Auto and Manual and also prefer some small pockets.

Will report back on my experience.

Thanks all for your input!

I have the mustang. But I know alot of guys that went with the more cost friendly onyx.  Good choice sir.

[fishwizzard]

I am thinking about switching to an auto-inflate next year, but am also going to miss having a pocket for my phone/keys like my current PFD has.  I could get one of those plastic pouches on a neck lanyard for my phone, but I hate how they seem to fog up in hot/humid weather.  I was thinking about trying to find a really LW fishing vest to wear under the PFD, but I would love to hear if anyone has found a better solution as most of the appeal of the auto-inflate is increased airflow to my torso, which even a LW vest will restrict.