PFDs you'll actually wear

Evan B said:
Sorry if this comes off as an ad.... I know I've posted a bit about these before, but really do think they're that good of a product. I've made suggestions to multiple fishing buddies with bad habits of not wearing their PFDs to get one of these, and all were instant fans as well. Just ask @Billy :D

So a few years ago, I picked up three of the NRS Chinook PFDs because I'd heard good things. I'd been using the inflatable type PFDs prior, and after a few mishaps and failures, and just not being a huge fan of them in general, I decided to get something else.

What I immediately liked was that once I put it on, I was totally fine keeping it on, which I'd never had happen with a PFD before. With all the pockets, it was basically like wearing a fishing vest. Most importantly, my guests were leaving theirs on as well.

Exterior-wise, not worlds apart different. If you can find the old version on closeout and don't plan on getting it salty, it's a hard deal to beat. But getting the new version is absolutely worth it as well if it's something you end up actually wearing.
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A few years ago, I tested a variety of PFDs for anglers, and the NRS Chinook was hands-down the favorite among my test team. In fact, it was the only 'solid' PFD we recommended. However, we also loved one inflatable: a Mustang model that is no longer offered (the Mustang MIT 150 is their current version, which matches our recommendation, I think). Mustang, based out of Vancouver, BC, makes great products, and I've lived-tested several of their inflatables (i.e., jumping out of rafts on rivers/lakes!!!). I have a Chinook I wear in my river raft, but I stick to my Mustang when I'm kayaking lakes.

gearinstitute.com

Functional Personal Floatation Options for Anglers | Gear Institute

Striking a balance between functionality and convenience, these PFDs meet the needs of anglers without having to make compromises.
gearinstitute.com gearinstitute.com
 
We were out at nrs today and the new Chinooks are very nice, and the previous model was marked down. I have an ancient Chinooks I still use in my pontoon and float tube. Use a mustang in my big boat.

Also checked out the new oxbow and boundary. One thing about NRS, they build their stuff to survive almost anything. Very impressive.
 
Dnelson said:
A few years ago, I tested a variety of PFDs for anglers, and the NRS Chinook was hands-down the favorite among my test team. In fact, it was the only 'solid' PFD we recommended. However, we also loved one inflatable: a Mustang model that is no longer offered (the Mustang MIT 150 is their current version, which matches our recommendation, I think). Mustang, based out of Vancouver, BC, makes great products, and I've lived-tested several of their inflatables (i.e., jumping out of rafts on rivers/lakes!!!). I have a Chinook I wear in my river raft, but I stick to my Mustang when I'm kayaking lakes.

gearinstitute.com

Functional Personal Floatation Options for Anglers | Gear Institute

Striking a balance between functionality and convenience, these PFDs meet the needs of anglers without having to make compromises.
gearinstitute.com gearinstitute.com
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Mustang inflatable for me.
Bought a Chinook years ago, but I already have a permanent Mae West thing going on - a second on top of that is no bueno; I can't even see the pedals on my yak! 😆
 
TC would wear a lace bra on top of the pfd if it meant getting tuna. I’ll supply the bra if you’ll snap the photo
 
Replaced the original MSI that failed a simple self float test with a Chinook about 8 years ago. I liked the MSI because it was designed for paddling and floated me well well, ( multiple offshore kayak dumps ) but the Chinook just felt more capable.

Our Bassett has a Ruffwear as well. We got her one when we decided to take her with us to the floats in Westport so Kay could do some crabbing.
 
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Something that always spooks me is a life jacket in the pilothouse. Things can go south quick and much like on an airplane, you will get pinned to the roof if the boat capsizes and you have a life jacket on. Are inflatables the only way to go in that situation?
 
speedbird said:
Something that always spooks me is a life jacket in the pilothouse. Things can go south quick and much like on an airplane, you will get pinned to the roof if the boat capsizes and you have a life jacket on. Are inflatables the only way to go in that situation?
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Inflatables are ok in the cabin if they don't auto-inflate, because if they do and you flip and start to go under you're still trapped.
 
Another bit of testimonial:

Had my cousin in town this past weekend. Had him wearing the "old" model of the Chinook for our trips out to the Columbia and Willamette. Said he was inspired to equip his boat he uses in the Puget Sound with them since nobody ever wants to wear the cheap PFDs he keeps on board.
 
I'm not sure I understand the "tenting" issue that is being mentioned?
 
Evan B said:
aye
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TBH, that's one of the few things I genuinely dislike about the Chinook. And it's mostly, for me, anyway, just a cosmetic issue.

Still, might see about trying on the 2025 version with the molded back and see how it feels in comparison.
 
Also worth noting that there is a more trim version of the Chinook called the Wrangler for folks who don't need all the storage or bulk:

www.nrs.com

NRS Wrangler PFD

A trim version of the best-selling Chinook for anglers who want all the comforts but only need some of the storage options. Multiple attachment points and MOLLE-inspired webbing configuration on the chest pair with two large pockets to customize an angler's set-up.
www.nrs.com www.nrs.com
 
I've worn an NRS Chinook OS (Off-Shore) PFD for several years. Extremely comfortable and has a special pocket designed for a VHF radio (which is where my Garmin InReach satellite communicator resides when I'm afloat).
 
I also saw some comments somewhere about the foam being lighter in the 2025 version. But NRS doesn't seem to mention it on the product page. So I don't know if it is true or not.
 
Josh said:
I also saw some comments somewhere about the foam being lighter in the 2025 version. But NRS doesn't seem to mention it on the product page. So I don't know if it is true or not.
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I was also told the foam is different, but didn't ask much beyond that. I may need to get some questions answered.
 
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