Will Your Life Jacket Save You? PFD Testing

In no way am I tell folks not to wear their PFD nor am I trying to discourage the use of a PFD. There is no argument that they can be beneficial and can save your life in many situations, but in this video I am simply focusing on the aspect of the wearing being unconscious when in the water with the PFD on.
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[@TripSmith]

In no way am I tell folks not to wear their PFD nor am I trying to discourage the use of a PFD. There is no argument that they can be beneficial and can save your life in many situations, but in this video I am simply focusing on the aspect of the wearing being unconscious when in the water with the PFD on. Take that in mind when/if you decide to leave a "not so nice comment". But it's OK, I know they are going to come anyhow lol

[@blakehurst8695]

That place looks a little familiar 😆

[@joapps8135]

I think Trip meant to say "...There is no argument that they CAN'T be beneficial and CAN'T save your life..."

[@dalethebelldiver7740]

This was a real life! Probable scenario and you deserve ten thumbs up for addressing the issue. Now; let’s see you drag an UN conscience buddy or woman in the boat or kayak. I’m a commercial diver and believe me; getting a fully dressed OR EVEN STRIPPED DOWN commercial diver in the boat or barge requires specialized gear. I have this gear in my boat but I’m the only one who knows how to use it because people don’t want their HAPPY MEAL mentality messed with if it’s a FUN activity. A guy like you might get people to realize the responsibility of adulthood doesn’t stop at the “FUN” line..

[@joemccoury2475]

My pfd saved my life last summer. I was on my jet ski and hit a big wave sideways at 50 mph. Although I was not nocked out I had the wind nocked out of me for over a minute and I know there was no way I could have treaded water for the amount of time I would have needed to.

[@TripSmith]

Yes sir Blake! Is that how it should go joapps? I think you are correct lol Thanks for watching out fo rme.

[@lukehalfhide9967]

1:59 Did anyone see the yellow life jacket blow away?😂 Edit:THANKS FOR ALL OF THE LIKES💛

[@ericcastaneda6323]

Caribbean001 I did 😂

[@rachelhewitt1898]

Yea

[@captaingray5455]

Caribbean001 I DID TOO!!! 😂😂😂

[@ontariosmith2846]

Yep

[@TripSmith]

So did we!!! lol We grabbed it as you can see us wearing it later in the video ;)

[@fatkidenterprises6746]

I used to live in Alaska and up there the saying goes “wear your live vest so the coasties can find your body”.

[@TripSmith]

Uh huh.... sad but true in a lot of cases.

[@HungryH1951]

Up there hypothermia would set in real fast in those cold waters. Life jacket just to keep you afloat and hopefully you will be picked up by somebody within 10-15 minutes or else you're pretty much a goner.

[@Carlit0Tit0]

@@HungryH1951 We have hot summers too, it's not always cold waters.

[@kristenmurphy4122]

It's better than people risking lives to try to recover your body...

[@frankc6430]

hypothermia in cold frigid water will kill you in 10 min or less... in florida maybe 30min you will be numb and dead soon because water will still suck the heat off yout body ... this guy is in FL so his advice is a bad one and only for a "unconscious" victim who will need more immediate to live besides floating witch is not the average case .

[@sticks29pgm29]

What an education you just gave me. Had no idea that they wouldn't face you up in the water if unconcious. But you showed how important to wear a life jacket is. Thanks for the insight. Great video.

[@TripSmith]

Glad you enjoyed it! You're welcome.

[@BASSNGRASS]

I think this video is teaching us one really important thing..Someone needs to invent a new life jacket and get super rich lol

[@TripSmith]

There ya go!

[@bradfordpalmer2298]

Water activate head back and spin on your back. Cost $1000. Yea....vutvthink how much the ticket would be if you didnt have one for each person. Millions and millions of dollars the game warden could make.

[@eltigre6446]

First they have to wear it to save their life

[@kangarookicker6995]

These are PFDs, they are meant to help you swim for longer. They only contain half a kilogram of uplift (50n) and are NOT intended to right you if you go unconscious.

[@adeborrelli5106]

@@bradfordpalmer2298 How much!!!!! I've got 5 and they cost maybe £600 total and that's with spray hoods and lights. Admittedly our PLBs cost more like £250 each.

[@johnnyb395]

Also Trip, a good comment/point to make is make sure the pfd is TIGHT AND SNUG. I personally wear a NRS Ninja PFD. Saved my life on The Buffalo River flowing at 8mph with boulders/downed tress all around me.

[@TripSmith]

Yes, very important. They certainly can save your life at times. If I were paddling in that river, I would have mine on at that time ;)

[@clarerutzrutter]

Wow what a beautiful place! Absolutely gorgeous! Great to see your angle on PFD testing, really informative and entertaining at the same time! Love your vids. Legend!

[@TripSmith]

Yes nice spot for sure! Thanks for the great comment and glad you enjoy the videos!

[@DrBB-pc2ji]

@@TripSmith hello! I would like to kayak there! Can you tell me where is this lake?

[@aliceg9571]

Thanks for showing us your experiences with the different types of life jackets. Sorry you got hurt on that one speed test. Your videos are always funny and entertaining Trip. Thanks for sharing them with us. See you again soon.

[@TripSmith]

You're welcome Alice! Ah, it was a fun little bump in the nose lol I try to make everything fun ;) See you again soon indeed! Thanks for watching and commenting Alice!

[@dirtyboycedafam9206]

But you lost the yellow one before you even jumped lol

[@TripSmith]

But we got it back and were wearing it later in the video. No worries ;)

[@jacobsunde]

This is my first video that I’ve watched of your channel! I am a wakeboarder and it’s very common in wakeboarding/wakesurfing (water sports in general) to wear a non coast guard approved life jacket. You should compare a cga vest and a non cga vest. One thing that is super common when you fall hard with water sports is that you get the wind knocked out of you. So if you do some more life jacket tests, let all the air out of your lungs. Great video dude!

[@TripSmith]

Great thoughts Jacob, Thanks!

[@FryChicken]

I haven't found a wakeboarding life jacket that's self-righting. I don't think USCG approval accounts for self-righting.

[@NortonOutdoors]

Hey Tripp! Saw you this past Saturday at Hunter Fish camp landing loading up the boat. Wanted to shake your hand and tell you thank you for the great videos but you were with your family. I didn’t want to be rude. My family was putting in our kayaks as y’all were leaving. Maybe I will cross paths with you another day. Have fun and thanks for the great videos!

[@TripSmith]

Aw man! You so should have come said hey! Were yall in the black tahoe or something like that. Next time, don't hesitate because I love meeting folks! You're welcome and yep, maybe another day bud.

[@drewp8773]

That lake looks so fun to fish for bass in it

[@TripSmith]

It can be tough as the water is to clear...

[@drewp8773]

@@TripSmith you should make a video on fish that lake

[@kidperk3347]

Big shellcrackers there

[@alphainfinitum3445]

There is a 99.9% chance that most drownings were not knocked unconscious before drowning. They just didn't have a life jacket while in water, or fell in water without one. So I think the important thing here is for people to practice how these life jackets work while the are in water, so if they ever find themselves in a situation where their lives depended on the life jacket, they will know how to orient their bodies so as to keep their heads above water without expending too energy. Take a day off and head to the lake or swimming pool and practice till you feel comfortable.

[@truedox]

Source for the 99.9%?

[@alienvspreditor8386]

exactly. State your soure

[@julianblacksmith8539]

Use ur common sense, u rlly believe that every drowning case was unconscious. By 99 percent, he implied, most of the time.

[@renegade637]

Besides, falling in the water without a life jacket vs falling in the water, unconscious, and face down with a life jacket, at least the life jacket give you a chance at survival.

[@Imnotyourdoormat]

outstanding video...really drives the point home.....sitting with a close friend, telling her how i could get everybody onboard to gladly wear their "dorky" orange life preserver. after id show them how and why it worked, they'd say, "gimme that thing" and wear it with a big smile...so i pulled up this detailed tutorial...and she got the message alright...kutgw!!!

[@TripSmith]

Thankya! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@94landcruiser80]

Trip, love your videos man! I know they are a lot of work and we all enjoy it, so thank you! Recently made a trip up the choctawhatchee and spring-hopped all the way up to morrison spring on the boat thanks to learning about it through your channel, even some of the "unmarked" ones lol. Just curious if you ever thought about doing a tutorial video on freediving and how to improve your depth, lung capacity, underwater endurance etc? Again thank you for great content and we hope to make it to Rockadock one day!

[@TripSmith]

Thanks Zach!!!! You're welcome. I haven't thought of that... I would like to take a class on it first honestly to be more educated. That would be a good video.... Hey I hope you can make it too, great times!!!

[@moricone4]

For a person like me who doesn't know how to swim and still wants to go snorkeling, this is the best video everyone should totally watch!

[@johnalfresco]

If I was out in the middle of nowhere on my own, I would wear a type 1 or one of the CO2 inflatables. Nice thought provoking film! I think I have watched pretty much all of your stuff and it reminds me of growing up in Zimbabwe, we were always outside on or near water. Keep them coming!

[@Daruma_Studio]

Inflatables are exceptionally dangerous and unreliable.

[@joapps8135]

2:00 life vest overboard!!

[@TripSmith]

We were skint back and lost her! She was safely recovered though ;)

[@alexs5382]

Trip, this was one of your best videos so far! I always been wondering how different PFDs perform. Thanks man

[@TripSmith]

Wow, thanks Alex! I wondered it too lol

[@AirborneEclipse]

Just moved to an area with access to 12 nearby lakes and watching a ton of vids about safety and issues before getting back into kayaks after decades. I appreciated this “heads up” reality check about the limitations of the common PFD’s I’ll likely be choosing from for what I’ll be out doing… Thank you

[@armanraza5237]

did you get into kayaking again?

[@mikez8076]

at 3:00 you missed an opportunity to "encourage" young 'yakers to wear a PFD

[@TripSmith]

Well, you coudl say that but those boys lived a couple hundred yards from there and were swimming almost all day off their families dock. They were using the kayak like pool toys so weren't worried about PFD's.

[@BigInjun05]

Here in ny just have to have the vest in the vessel.

[@aidanmonnat7983]

@@TripSmith joung people should always wear a lifejacket 👍

[@MrDavidelliottjr]

@@DeadOnTrail not knowing how to swim doesn't make them a pussie. Their just naturally pussies🤣

[@MrDavidelliottjr]

@@aidanmonnat7983 why do u give two shots what another person does with his life. Wtf you think you are?

[@exoc1]

You should hav e tried an inflatable one. They arent big and bulky, until they need to be, and the good ones will turn you face up every time. Also, people always overestimate how good swimmers they are. It's exhausting to swim or stay upright for extended periods of time. Maybe a life jacket wont make it certain you don't drown, but it gives you way better odds. And the thing is, You never know when you gonna need it. When shit go south, it may happen very fast. Especially in a small vessel.

[@TripSmith]

Yea, I have a few reason's I don't use inflatables much.

[@dodgeman2833]

Thank you Bro!! I just bought new type 1 pfd's I always wondered about how the type 3 would hold a man up, and now I know! I don't want myself or any of my family or my friends, face down in the water, with a life vest on, that we THOUGHT would save us!!!!!!!! " HELLO " Thank you again 4 this video, and your hard work....It wasn't in vain :-)

[@TripSmith]

You're welcome! Glad you found the video valuable DODGE.

[@kd-b7340]

I really appreciate this video and feel better informed to make a smart purchase. Thank you!

[@TripSmith]

You're welcome!

[@shitloveaduck]

The orange vest was the only life jacket. The other 3 were Personal Floatation Devices PFDs. The lifejacket works. The PFDs don’t. I took swimming lessons up to lifeguard. It was a part of our swimming lessons. The inflatables work as life jackets. I also like the type 1, type 2 and others explanation and the comment at the end to use your type 1 or type 2 “PFDs” and nothing more said about type 3 or larger numbers. I really like how this points out the difference. The PFDs are fine if you are conscious, unfortunately if you are out in the ocean miles from land and after a certain length of time, you are going to fall asleep, 18-24-36 hours or whatever, you may be done. The jackets need that collar behind the head to keep you up and supported on your back. The primary flotation has to be at the front. I use the inflatables personally, although the cheaper ones are still listed as PFDs because the air can leak out. He can’t really name brands, but I can, Mustang, some of Cabella’s and Bass Pro’s inflatables will work really well. You can get the auto inflating ones (in case you are knocked out), and the self inflating that you have to pull the tab on. I have the latter because I often get wetter than the threshold (?) so I don’t want to keep buying new recharge kits. They get expensive after a while. Please be safe out there! Thank you Tripp Smith!!!

[@TripSmith]

Thanks for the input!

[@shitloveaduck]

Trip Smith - oh yeah!!! The feet first,,,,, aka, nuts shot!! I laughed so hard! One of those “What was I thinking?” moments. Hahaha. Please stay safe out there, Eh!

[@TheKratoKiller]

I’ve already knocked myself out when I was wake boarding, PFD saved me because I couldn’t have tread water when I came around

[@TripSmith]

Ah, interesting! Good point!

[@jeremythrasher2954]

That's really eye opening. You should do one of these testing kayak style vests.

[@he7is7at7hand]

Thanks for this video. This is really eye-opening! And quite scary.

[@annab3182]

A water safety vest will vary based on the application. You don’t want an auto deployment pfd if you’re kayaking because the water will active and deploy the floatation. The key to understand which vest to purchase is understanding the environment you would be using it in.

[@TripSmith]

Correct ;)

[@jonbushi2772]

For how long can live with a life Jacet someone who can't swim?

[@rainnants]

@@jonbushi2772 2 seconds.

[@briencrotty2322]

Not all auto deployment PFDs are water-activated. Many (e.g., the Spinlock Vito) are activated by pressure.

[@shaun1040]

Um a pfd and a life jacket serve very different purposes. A pfd is meant to just float you and is typically used in sports, lifejackets are designed to turn you onto your back. Edit: All Lifejackets are PFD's, but not all PFD's are Lifejackets.

[@kayakingwithscott219]

Shaun Lin thank god I thought I was the only on who was thinking that

[@tiaxanderson9725]

No, you're right. My alarm bells went off and I paused the video at 31 seconds and basically said the same thing as you did :P

[@TripSmith]

Yep, that's kinda the point of the video. Lots of people see them as the same thing...

[@BhavaSindh]

Yeah, in kayaking you so not want a life jacket since it is to bulky, would be in the way of rolling and re-entering the kayak from the water.

[@mikedoverskog]

I came here as I was unsure about the life jackets on offer. I saw all these kayaking type jackets and thought to myself "but what if you're knocked unconscious?" and you have just confirmed what I thought. Kayaking flotation devices are just that, a flotation aid, not a life vest or life jacket. Thanks. Great video, great demonstration.

[@TripSmith]

Glad you enjoyed it Mike! Thanks for watching!

[@flycrew]

Thanks for taking one for the team!

[@pete49327]

Aren't you guys firemen/paramedics in Dothan, AL.? This was really eye opening life jacket tests using practical real life scenarios.

[@TripSmith]

We are ;) I'm a firefighter and Parker is a ff'er paramedic. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Chickenooble]

Can you repeat these tests with your PFD shoulder straps tightened all the way? With the floatation not being tight it floats up your back, pushing you forward...

[@TripSmith]

I don't think so. For one, the shoulder straps tight would only help it ride up.... The waist part was as tight as possible while still being comfortable.

[@noelr4312]

Thank you I will be purchasing a type 2 I don’t like the style but it gets the job done I appreciate you reviewing

[@TripSmith]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@AllThingsOutdoors]

I have a PFD that has leg straps to keep the jacket down on your body and stop your head from flipping forward. Great info as always. The PFD debate seems to always dominate the facebook pages and forums.

[@TripSmith]

Ahhh, interesting about leg straps.... Yes it certainly can be a popular topic....

[@hippie_ish]

That Type 2 saved me in Mission Bay San Diego (Which gets deep so fast!) When I lost my balance and fell off my paddle board! Of course I wasn't unconscious. I'm glad I had the damn thing on cuz I'm a horrible swimmer and if my paddle board floated far away or something I probably would have drowned ☹️ I wasn't close enough to the shore what with the slow speed in which I swim. Of course.... A good or even regular swimmer probably would have been fine without a life jacket 🤷🏿‍♀️. As long as there aren't many boats, that bay has calm water

[@TripSmith]

Oh wow! Glad you were wearing it!

[@higherpurpose1212]

Yeah, that's the thing, good swimmer or not, one should always wear a PFD, it's a small investment for life protection.

[@higherpurpose1212]

@ShemGem Isn't it scary to do kayaking when you can't swim?

[@TheTelly]

@@higherpurpose1212 not if you're wearing a life jacket

[@III---III]

I know this video is old, but I still would like to give information regarding PFDs coming from someone in the coast guard. First off, ALWAYS WEAR A LIFE JACKET!!! Type 1's are meant to turn the users face up and are for rough waves and when you know help will be a while Type 2's have a 50/50 chance of turning the users face up. These are ideal for when you're offshore in somewhat calm waves and help will be around somewhat closer. Type 3's rely on the user to be conscious to keep their face up. These are most commonly used for recreational activities on calm waters and when help will be near.

[@TripSmith]

Good input! I agree with ya. Kinda the purpose of the video was to show people that just becuase they are wearing a PFD doesn't mean they will be safe every time... People argue about why you should wear one and often times they are arguing the wrong point....

[@saifuddinbahri1305]

p

[@williamgriffith2922]

Very eye opening. Definitely makes you reconsider PFD. Thanks for an informative Public service announcement. Lots to think about🤔

[@TripSmith]

Yea.. Well maybe not reconsider, but just be aware of their capabilities ;) You're welcome!

[@williamgriffith2922]

@@TripSmith exactly..respect it capabilities

[@herbertabraham2174]

Hi....great video.....in the UK they are PFD....only enabling to help you swim to safety if conscious.A lifejacket will turn you over head up even if unconscious....I've just bought two Baltic automatic life jackets for virtually the same price as I bought two buoyancy aids!I came across this video expecting a comparison of life jackets but still a great video!Well done and you have one more subscriber! All the best from the UK(shortly to relocate to Northern France)....Herb

[@TripSmith]

Thanks! I appreciate the info and thank you for subscribing Herbert! Hope you enjoy the future videos.

[@lickrod7301]

They made a video about testing life jackets while the driver of the boat wasn’t wearing a life jacket🧐😂

[@TripSmith]

Uh huh. Life jackets are rarely worn on nice calm days like this one ;)

[@devintanamachi6669]

At he very start I saw a life jacket fly out the boat and no one realized! Lol

[@TripSmith]

We saved it ;)

[@coryatwood4571]

Great video Trip. That's something I just assumed all pfd's were supposed to do, save your life. I guess Rob is right . If you go unconscious it just makes the recovery of your body easier. Still wear your pfd when under way.

[@TripSmith]

Thanks Cory!!! Yea... I think we all kinda assume that...

[@alphainfinitum3445]

There is a 99.9% chance that most drownings were not knocked unconscious before drowning. They just didn't have a life jacket while in water, or fell in water without one. So I think the important thing here is for people to practice how these life jackets work while the are in water, so if they ever find themselves in a situation where their lives depended on the life jacket, they will know how to orient their bodies so as to keep their heads above water without expending too energy. Take a day off and head to the lake or swimming pool and practice and get comfortable.

[@herwantoherwanto9074]

@TripSmith i do really2 appreciateed all the pfd test in any circumstances... great job, bro... warm reagards for all ur team

[@TripSmith]

You're welcome!!!

[@sailfishoneday2145]

Oddly enough the inflatable pfd's ( the ones that pop / inflate when u hit the water ) will keep ur head out the water more than any non inflatable ....u should do this with the inflatables .

[@ethanthomas5393]

Can you get knocked unconscious from falling out of a inner tube when being billed by a speed boat

[@TripSmith]

No doubt.

[@gharrised6762]

was looking for a type 1 test compared to the others, but got a good idea on the others, thanks

[@TripSmith]

You're welcome!

[@menolara17]

Thx this one looks fun but definitely food for thought 💭

[@AmundBraten]

Are we all just gonna ignore the fact that the man that steers the boat doesnt where a lifejacket?

[@TripSmith]

We don't wear life jackets typically ;) So I think most people understand that.

[@chilugendavaajav5190]

Where is that filmed? I wanna go there cuz the water is clear

[@TripSmith]

Merritts Mill Pond, Marianna FLorida

[@argro2311]

Ain't there Gators down there

[@drmemin]

August Groh ikr

[@floridagal4life]

I'm from Florida and I never heard of that place. Wow I thought they was in a different state or country. Let me Google this place. It's beautiful.

[@youtuber19435]

@@floridagal4life My exact sentiments.

[@1offakindbaits]

I just found this channel. I'm sure someone has said if you are unconscious you would not hold your breath and this could effect the outcome. The information is very valuable thankyou for testing them is the most honest way you can think of.

[@TripSmith]

It certainly could.... Glad you found the channel!

[@anniesapron5871]

Thanking for sharing! Great testing and comments

[@elien1902]

I always wear a PFD when I go sailing. I'm a very strong swimmer but even I get tired or to cold to swim. When I go dinghy sailing I wear the ones that can not turn you face up. But it's a mostly calm lake and there are lots of people around. But when I go out to sea I always wear a life jacket that can keep my face outside the water.

[@TripSmith]

Good comment Elien! Thanks for taking the time to leave it ;)

[@litrick5471]

I think you focused too much on the "being unconscious" scenario when most (especially kayak pfds) are just to help you tread water and make it easier for someone to rescue you if needed. I had a boat accidentally knock me off my kayak with its wake and I didn't black out but the pfd helped me swim and gave some added buoyancy when flipping my kayak back over.

[@exotichandyman]

Trip, you’re a first responder. Maybe try to use that to parter up with the FWC to make a life jacket video. They might have a dummy that would more realistically simulate an unconscious body. Great video, great topic. I appreciate that your heart is in the right place.

[@TripSmith]

That's an interesting thought.... I may have to look into that.... Just trying to be honest and exploring different angles ;) Glad you enjoyed it!

[@douglasfry5455]

Excellent idea!. I'd like to see that

[@rspoutdoors9994]

Glad you put this video out there it is eye opening

[@TripSmith]

Hey glad you enjoyed it! I was a little hesitant about releasing it to be honest...

[@mikes1172]

I have two life jacket stories, about 3 years ago my sisters boyfriend was boating alone, he was going at a high speed and his motor separated from the control linkage. The boat turned abruptly throwing him out of the boat at approximately 50 MPH, he was knocked unconscious but lucky awoke and only survived because of a life jacket. 2 years ago I was boating with my son and we were off shore approximately .75 of a mile and my boat began to sink and eventually capsized. The sinking process didn't take long as it was a small boat but we did have life jackets. The stress of the situation, losing your boat, your belongings and trying to keep a panicking 10 year old calm wasn't easy. In fact I remember floating and thinking I wish my life jacket offered greater buoyancy as I just didn't feel that comfortable having my head that close to the water in that moment. Bear in mind, I've snorkeled, spear fished, lobster dove many times, no vests ever and in those cases I was many miles off-shore but that day the boat sank I would have been happy with 3 vests as I just felt vulnerable and almost like an anxiety attack was going to happen. My new little boat is a quality inflatable 5 chambers and I have plenty of extra floating cushions and we wear inflatable vests as I'm not taking any chances. My advice wear your gear, especially anytime you are underway and especially if you are alone.

[@TripSmith]

Thanks for sharing Mike, good to know.

[@brageja4537]

That looks like a good diving place

[@TripSmith]

It is! Dove there many times ;)

[@RahulKumar-knp]

Its a very important training for everyone. thanks for this video....

[@scottmeacham1738]

Very good video Trip! If a person is unconscious in the water the chances of drowning are greatly increased. The main reason to wear a PFD is that in fresh water lakes and ponds, we are not as buoyant as we are in salt water. Add murky conditions or dark water and a person becomes disoriented at can not tell which direction to swim in order to reach the surface. A person can actually swim horizontal beneath the surface or at a downward angle until they simply run out of air. I had this experience and had I not been an experienced and a strong swimmer I would have drowned after being pushed off a boat backwards by a "friend", when I was 18yo. It happened to be a shallow cove about 12 to 15 feet. I began swimming horizontal toward shore. I had no idea which direction was up until my feet touched a log on the bottom. Thanks for sharing this information with us!

[@TripSmith]

Thanks Scott! I've never experienced not knowing which way is up.... I imagine it's a scary feeling! You're welcome, thanks for the comment!

[@umpus]

Cleanest lake ever

[@TripSmith]

Very nice place ;)

[@robertbresnahan4179]

Almost kills friend : laughs

[@TripSmith]

Lol I was concerned for a split second.....

[@calebreutener870]

If you or your friend have never been seriously injured or almost seriously injured you haven't really lived... Accidents happen thats why we must be prepared and trained.

[@kimroberson8376]

Very grateful for this video... Thanks Trip !!!!

[@TripSmith]

You're welcome Kim!

[@afrobryan]

I highly appreciate you making this video.

[@TripSmith]

You are very welcome!

[@beefcakejake7566]

2:01 rip yellow soldier

[@TripSmith]

We saved him before he drowned and he showed up later in the video.

[@jiveturkey231]

Should have used the automatic pfds

[@patrickmurray4084]

Those work well from my testing. When inflated it is like the orange vests

[@TripSmith]

Yes I should have thinking back. Would have been the perfect example to show how they would have been good to have till slipped off the boat unharmed and then you're without a PFD lol I have mixed feelings about them.

[@rudolphc6830]

Thank guys. Perfect info.

[@TripSmith]

You're welcome!

[@Deecrappie]

Hey brother thank you for making this video you inspire me to make my own life jacket video

[@TripSmith]

Hey man! Just finished watching you video, good stuff! Love it....

[@Deecrappie]

@@TripSmith thank you brother you inspired me to make mines. Hopefully I drove some traffic to you by shouting you out

[@TripSmith]

Yea bud no worries. I think you did, I appreciate it. Funny thing, I found one of your videos a couple of years ago and enjoyed a few. Small world....

[@vagabond-yj8pn]

I try to float on my stomach so I can see the marine life.

[@TripSmith]

Ahhhh, well that makes perfect sense then... lol

[@treysteinberger1457]

When you get knocked out most of the time you don't have lungs full of air which could mess up tests.

[@TripSmith]

That's very interesting and true! Good thinking....

[@AaronS11979]

I was thinking the same thing as I watched him inhale a big balloon full of air. I doubt it would change any of the results significantly but it is worth noting.

[@CP-kb1du]

Thank you Best Video to show the Results , Confident now to use my Jet Ski ...with my Life Vest ... 5 Stars

[@TripSmith]

You're welcome! Have fun!

[@goingprowithagopro3082]

Awesome video from one of my favorite KZbinrs! Trip, you’ve encouraged me to start a KZbin of my own kind of doing the same thing as you but I’m only using a GoPro and it’ll be more family and friend adventures!

[@TripSmith]

Glad you enjoyed it!!! Hey man, nothing wrong with using just a GoPro at all.... Most of my videos these days are with the DJI Osmo Action which is very similar to the GP. This video was shot with the GoPro and DJI ;) Have fun with the adventures!

[@goingprowithagopro3082]

Thank you! Just got some racks and a roller so I can take the kayak out by myself!

[@jnava121]

Test Results: *life jacket saves man from impaling on stump*

[@TripSmith]

There ya go!

[@ryder1639]

2:02 rip life vests Edit: thanks for the likes

[@TripSmith]

Haha! Thank you!

[@rotarymazda1028]

Hey thanks man this is really helpful

[@lovingatlanta]

👍I loved watching this video. Thanks for doing this testing. 💝

[@TripSmith]

You are so welcome! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@MorettiPyrotechnicsLLC]

I have mixed emotions about life jackets now.

[@TripSmith]

Yea, they still certainly have a purpose though.

[@KatWoman_]

Those orange ones from when I was a kid were not any better than the neck pack I heat up in the microwave for pain now.

[@kangarookicker6995]

PFDs are different to LIFE JACKETS. PFDS ARE MEANT TO HELP YOU FLOAT AND ASSIST RESCUE AND STOP YOU FROM BEING FATIGUED. IT'S USUALLY USED WHERE HELP IS NEARBY OR CONDITIONS ARE CALM LIKE IN A SHELTERED HARBOUR. LIFE JACKETS HAVE 100N+ OF BUOYANCY BUT ARE ONLY INTENDED TO BE WORN WHEN CONDITIONS GET MORE HAIRY AND CAN FLIP YOU IF YOU ARE UNCONSCIOUS. You missed the entire point of the test. He was seeing if the lightweight bouyancy aids would float you.

[@wcresponder]

Kinda missed the fact they are Personal Flotation Devices and the other is a Key hole lifejacket(type 2). You forgot to do self inflating type. Praying doesn't do jack if you're not wearing a flotation device and you are unconscious. If you are unconscious and your device turns you face up you better hope waves don't break over your face you will/can ingest/aspirate water and you could still die. Parker would have fallen face first in that scenario having his chest strike the gunnel and most likely rolling him face up. If he didn't receive immediate assistance he's gonna be fish food. You need to show what your body position would be with out flotation at a full relaxed position. ALso get a more various range of body types. Your second fall from port gunnel you tilted your head towards your left thus causing you to roll that direction. Didn't you ever watch CSI? I like you actually did a safety video, but most of the time you will be conscious upon entering the water and as you found out (to some degree) injured. Thus if you have any smarts skill you will most likely be face up. Again thanks for the video, love that clear water, stay safe, have fun. Cheers!

[@TripSmith]

Not a big fan of self inflating.... If someone falls overboard or drop it in the water you could be without a PFD then..... Plus I wouldn't want to have to replace the cartidge. But that's just me. Yes, I mentioned the waves over your face thing ;) Nope never watched CSI and sorry about our amateur testing methods. Just out there trying to learn a bit. You're welcome! Yes, that water there is awesome!

[@ButterbeanOutdoors]

Great video Trip! Such a pretty place!

[@TripSmith]

Hey thanks Beans! It's a gem for sure!

[@johncaban4310]

Thanks for this video. My Daughter is Special needs and was looking to get her one when we go to Florida to explore. So the ones you listed in the link above is the one you would recommend?

[@TripSmith]

You're welcome. Yes, I like the ones linked.

[@guhaniyer5601]

y'all know lifejackets and PFD'S aren't the same right

[@TripSmith]

Yes, that's the point I was trying to get accross. People assume they are the same but are unaware of the dangers.....

[@brianwilson6542]

They are also not supposed to be riding yooo like they were.

[@batissta44]

What's the difference?

[@haseebpavaratty6249]

I'm here after Naya Rivera's death. She was not wearing a life jacket.

[@mysteriousg5611]

Me too! Wish she had just worn one.

[@TripSmith]

Sad thing.

[@higherpurpose1212]

Sometimes it's too late to realize it, when your life's dependent on it you can't do anything. Heed the advise of marine experts, please wear life vest/jackets when near water EVEN IF you're a good swimmer. You'll never know when cramps will hit you when you fall in water. Just a few dollars investment compared to the value of your life...

[@fredfable5655]

really good job! and beautyful video. congratulations!

[@TripSmith]

Thankya Fred!

[@robbiephillips2959]

This is good information as most people don't realize all PFDs don't save your life. In fact, only one of the devices tested here was a life jacket. The other 3 are Buoyancy Aids. Those are meant to help you stay afloat. Inflatables work similar to the Type 2 life jacket with most of the buoyancy in the front to put you on your back with your face out of the water.

[@eggcluck]

A PFD is not a life jacket. A life jacket is large and bulky and is designed to keep your head out of water if unconscious and they have to be certified as doing so and have a high amount of uplift. A PFD is a buoyancy aid only typically providing around 50N of buoyancy,

[@TripSmith]

Yea, that's kinda what I was trying to get through to folks. People have a false sense of security to some extend with PFD's/life jackets

[@kurttaylor5023]

They keep you from sinking to the bottom, dead or alive

[@davidarnold3975]

This is it brother

[@TripSmith]

There ya go.... truth

[@jomden1]

Very educational!!! I'm going to Mexico next month and I'm trying to see which PFD to buy because we'll be swimming in open ocean.

[@davidcohen8248]

Great content. Thanks for taking the time..

[@TripSmith]

You're welcome David, thanks for the comment!

[@Matty06001]

Jeeeez. Thank you and your buddies for putting up with all the pain to make this fascinating and disturbing video.

[@TripSmith]

Haha! You're welcome Susan!

[@keithmayhew2161]

Nice video..Thanks for sharing..I,did not know that much about life jackets.Except to wear one..

[@TripSmith]

Thanks!

[@majordae2016]

Love the Videos Trip. Was in Florida 2 years ago and went to Weeki Wachee State Park and made a video Kayaking with Manatees. Going back to Florida this winter and was searching for more amazing spring fed rivers to visit and found a video of yours. Now im addicted to them hah. Also just ordered a Inflatable SUP after checking out your SUP comparison video, so thanks for that. Maybe run into you this winter, but let's enjoy summer first. + 1 SUB :)

[@TripSmith]

Haha at least it's a healthy addiction! Well thanks for the SUB and congrats on the ISUP, truly awesome crafts! Maybe... you never know!

[@KayakUSA1]

Great video bud, very good information!

[@TripSmith]

Thanks TJ! It was fun one lol

[@Nope769]

Shoes look fresh. Coming from Tallahassee going to take my Bonifide Kayak out on our property in Oyster Bay for a first catch and chill. Thanks for inspiring my new journey. Wakeboarding Orlando, Nautique, Salt Springs

[@TripSmith]

Hope you enjoy the trip on Oyster Bay and your new journey ;)

[@diggitallindadirt3283]

Great video and very informative I learned something thanks

[@TripSmith]

Glad to hear that! You're welcome!

[@angelotota9540]

Wish you would have tried a kayak PFD like the one i have more padding in the front and only the top half in the back thank for the video sure gets you thinking

[@TripSmith]

Angelo, the Red PFD that I was wearing is just that ;) It's my Stolquist Trekker which has the high back like you are referring too. Great PFD, I love it.... You're welcome!

[@pportp7828]

Thank you 🙏

[@jplxlabelle1681]

Wonder how many people will point out that not one of those jackets were a snug fit, like it says in the directions. That's why the thicker pad is always in front. So you roll on your back. Also look into a jacket with a collar/neck support. Flips you right over, most of the time, if it's properly fitted. A helmet 2 sizes too big won't help you, and wearing it unstrapped/improperly, won't help you like it could. 👌 great video Trip. Love the positive vibe as usual.

[@TripSmith]

I think they were all a snug fit... I know for sure the red paddling jacket was a snug fit. It has multiple adjustments and all of them have been adjusted for my body body size. Any tighter and it wouldn't be tolerable to wear which does no good. The Type II jacket was pretty snug too, you can see me adjusting it properly as far as I know. Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for the comment. A helmet might be a better option lol

[@jplxlabelle1681]

@@TripSmith I can see your shoulder straps coming off you your shoulders like 4 inches tho. Looks like, if you lift your arms the jacket will come right over your head. The jacket isn't supposed to be loose enough to move like that. It's supposed to stay relatively in place. Those are not snug fit as far as I can see, but hell, what do I know lol. When I jump in or fall in, my jacket doesn't ride up(no crotch strap) barely at all. My shoulder straps stay on my shoulders and my jacket rolls me over into my back like it's designed to do. None of my jackets have collars, same as yours. Maybe you giant muscles are throwing off the engineering. 👌

[@lesboucher542]

Where I live, in Australia, it is compulsory to wear a life jacket. Yes it may save your life, but going on your demonstration, it may also prevent you from rolling onto your back. As soon as the warmer weather hits over here, I'll start testing my own jacket out.....just in case.

[@TripSmith]

There ya go, interesting!

[@bloodbushcraft2467]

Man that place is absolutely beautiful! Also I thought those shoes where Nike frees until you took them off.

[@TripSmith]

Nice spot for sure. lol

[@richardmundo9709]

Thx for u advice,there are automatic vest that a I'll auto inflation and will bring u face up when unconcius