I have 2 Jet Pilot vest and love them both
USCGA and a non-USCG approved(A-10 attack).
Never had a problem with either one like your
describing. I never have owned a hyperlite
vest so I cant compare, but after reading what has
happened to yours I probably never will.
Go Jet Pilot all the way dude.
P.S. Hyperlite's boards and bindings still kick ass though.