ncmbm wrote:
I can't find it anywhere but I remember when the Hobies stopped carrying throwables at regattas. Most regattas do require you to wear your pfd. The boats are not condusive to carrying that type of flotation equipment. Especially so with the ocean sailors. I haven't seen a throwable on a Hobie in 15yrs or better, racing or cruising. I also never see the coasties where I sail so I will not be adding one any time soon! Can't imagine the headaches a stupid cushion would create on my deck while launching the spin!!!!
I even take my pfd off between starts, I hate to wear them. If I die while sailing it was meant to be!! And your body floats in the salty, another good reason not to lake sail.
I agree, at times the throwable is in the way on a Hobie, although they also make a good pillow for the crew when the wind shuts off. Whether or not you carry one on your boat based on the likelihood of needing it/being inspected is entirely your decision/business. However, many people do not comply with that part of the carriage requirements solely because they are not aware of it.
The point I was trying to make originally was merely that, if someone is concerned about buying the Zhik life jacket because it won't fulfill the USCG PFD requirement, they should also make sure they have a throwable onboard.