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Crewsaver’s Crewfit 150N, our reigning vest-style inflatable PFD, brushes off a challenge by Plastimo’s Pilot 150N.

The Crewsaver costs more than other vest-style inflatable PFDs, but we think it’s worth it. It has more room around the neck than other models. Also, one side of the single inflation chamber—the side with the inflation tube—is larger than the other to enhance righting action.

All recreational boats must carry one wearable Coast Guard-approved PFD (Type I, II, III or Type V PFD) for each person aboard. As each year passes, more inflatable personal flotation devices (PFDs) find their way to the marine marketplace. But not all of them are Coast Guard approved. The PFDs without Coast Guard approval are usually made overseas and carry a European safety designation. Boaters in US waters can’t use these PFDs to comply with Coast Guard regulations. A European-made vest, the Crewsaver Crewfit 150N, was PBR’s top choice for an inflatable in a nine-model test published in September 2004. …