Advice on PFD for wind sailing

Just wondering what recommendations ppl have for PFD's suitable for wind sailing and where is the best place to get them around Sydney.

I've done a dozen searches online but it seems most sites sell boards and other kit but not PFD's, or are not located in/near Sydney (so we can try them on for size).

Wife and I are still learning. We used borrowed equipment previously but now need to get our own and so are open to suggestions (we moved interstate for work recently...). We're about the same size (~70kgs, similar body shape, 6' tall, size M), so we're hoping to use the same kit for both of us, at least in the short-mid term. We only have the one board anyway, so only one of us can go out at once. Wife can fit into my jeans, no prob.

We have an intermediate board (Fanatic Viper 75) and 5.5m NorthSails Idol, which is is a bit big but OK in light winds, which is our preference. And the sail was a great price 2nd hand.

We're also in the market for a harness - I read the thread (link below) regarding seat vs waist and we'll probably go for a seat based on that thread, plus the fact we're late 40's/early 50's.
www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Windsurfing/General/Seat-or-waist/

So, any advice where to go around Sydney to try them on for size will be very much appreciated. (And who to avoid at all costs is always welcome too.)

Cheers
John

+1 for the lime coloured Ion. Much better than a Gill dinghy pfd. Fine with a waist or seat harness.

The other good thing about a lifejacket is that if you break something you can always take your jacket off knowing it will float the rig and paddle the board in. Rig recovery is step 2.

Something like a Naish impact vest. Snug elastic fit. Works with both seat and waist harness. Actually the fit is slightly better with the waist. Plenty of buoyancy for a 70-75 kg sailor and swims well.

Thanks everyone for your valuable insight.

I'll prob go visit windsurfnsnow today...

The booties, the gloves, the impact vest, the pfd, the gps, the helmet, the glasses, the ski goggles..... Underwear.
Is there anyone like me who likes a pair of boardies and a waist harness?

Select to expand quote

Windxtasy said..

stanly said..
I'd recommend a Neil Pryde PFD, they don't constraint your chest like some other PFD's not designed specifically for windsurfing do. I use it with a seat and waist harness without a problem. 30years ago never used them, but would never go out without it now
PS Won't save your ribs if the boom hits you on the side zip

I use the Neil Pryde one too. It fits better, is slim in outline, and doesn't ride up when you are in the water, which is very important. It has an opening for the harness hook which helps to hold it down too. Has the added bonus that you can hook on the hydrapak on the back (like a camelbak). I tried on lots of PFDs in sailing shops but they didn't fit as well.
Two bonuses of wearing a PFD that you may not realise - more bouyancy helps waterstarting, and it insulates the upper body and reduces windchill.

Sparky said..

I have just bought the NP Cabrinha High Hook Impact Vest and I echo WindXtasy's comments.. It is incredibly comfortable, buoyant and I got the 2 litre hydration camel pack to match. Very, very pleased with it. Being 50N buoyancy it should keep "The Water PoliceMan" away if you're offshore as an added bonus. Oh yes, BIG mesh velcroed pocket on front of vest that would easily take a PLB and a big pouch as well on hydration pack. I've had a cheaper vest until now and it's just not in the same league....I reckon it's worth shelling out for a good one as it's on all the time....certainly worth being on your short list anyway. Good luck.

Yep - picked up the NP High Hook today with hyd pk. Can't wait to test it...

Thanks for all the responses.
John