USCG Approved Vests

(rob_pitchford) · (rob_pitchford) **Join Date: Nov 2004** 03-31-2009, 9:36 PM

After reading a thread a while back regarding comp vests I think I will purchase a USGA vest and retire my Jet Pilot comp vest. I would prefer a side entry and I think my choice is between the Hyperlite Side Entry and the Liquid Force Watson Side Entry, both USGA Approved. I would appreciate any feedback on these two vests or any other suggestions.

thebiggmann 03-31-2009, 9:50 PM

Watson's great. Pretty sure I'm like the number one advocate of this vest haha. I need to get a life. But seriously, super comfortable, keeps you toasty in cold water cuz it keeps tight against you, not much to get the handle caught on. People say it's bulky, but i'm sure they're probably comparing it to a comp vest, so what isn't? I don't think it's bad, not even close to the point where I feel restricted. Good luck!

(wakemikey) · (wakemikey) **Join Date: Mar 2008** 04-01-2009, 5:50 AM

Hah that was my thread I sure started a shizstorm there didn't I? If people give CGA another chance, I consider it a success. If Shaun Murray and Helium will comment I think the issue is worth discussing.

On that thread I was very interested in Murrays vest based on sheer quality and the Helium Paisley surprised me because it is really thin and still CGA.

I currently ride a Body Glove Eco. It is a great vest, it is the lightest vest I have worn and dries the fastest because if the new foam.

(cwfunrider) · (cwfunrider) **Join Date: Sep 2006** 04-01-2009, 6:34 AM

I have the Helium SWAT CGA and I really like it. I had a NCGA JP baller before and quickly got rid of it.

(calexan) · (calexan) **Join Date: Dec 2008** 04-01-2009, 6:53 AM

C-Dub.... I was looking at that vest too. Not to sound gay, but how does it fit size wise. I cant fight a fitting chart to figure out what size to order. Like how tall/chest size and what size vest do you have?

(jdwake1) · (jdwake1) **Join Date: Sep 2007** 04-01-2009, 8:21 AM

Jet pilot OG

(player138) · (player138) **Join Date: Jun 2007** 04-01-2009, 9:30 AM

I'll second the OG

(cwfunrider) · (cwfunrider) **Join Date: Sep 2006** 04-01-2009, 10:38 AM

I'm about 5'11, 175 and I think I have a large. My jacket size would be a 42R.

(rob_pitchford) · (rob_pitchford) **Join Date: Nov 2004** 04-01-2009, 6:56 PM

Thanks for the comments. I think it was cool that Murray chimed in on the last thread and he definately got my attention regarding a USCG approved vests. It looks like the Jet Pilot is a favorite so far. Does anyone have any feedback on the Hyperlite vest?

(zach2orjack) · (zach2orjack) **Join Date: Dec 2008** 04-02-2009, 11:26 AM

I have the Hyperlite side entry vest and love it. I got a medium and it fits very tight but that's the way I like it. I'm hoping it stretches out a little but I can fit it over my wetsuit right now with no problem. It flexes well. I weigh 170 lbs and I'm 6' tall if that helps. The medium is very tight but it doesn't ride up at all.

(clay_fraley) · (clay_fraley) **Join Date: Jul 2006** 04-03-2009, 1:34 PM

Murrays vest is amazing! check it out for sure