Now that I’ve put a few miles on my Spinlock Deckvest 5D inflatable PFD, I will share my thoughts. The big question is usually, “Is it worth such a premium over other inflatable PFDs?” For me the answer is a solid yes, for a number of reasons.
Comfort
First up is comfort. It’s easy to notice how the shape differs from the other ‘horseshoe’-shaped inflatable PFDs. In practice, it feels much less like I’m wearing something around my neck than a traditional inflatable does, with the weight more evenly-distributed on my shoulders. The softer material on the neck area is also larger than on other PFDs. The fit is adjustable with straps at the waist and back, and it’s unique in that there are different sizes (1, 2, and 3, which basically translates to small, medium, and large) instead of a one-size (mis)fits all approach.
I also greatly appreciate the synthetic ring for a safety tether, rather than the twin D-rings found on traditional inflatables, which can clang around a fair bit unless you’re actually using a tether. For me, that’s about 99% of the time.
Features
The Spinlock Deckvest checks all of the boxes for necessary features if you’re going to race offshore: water-activated strobe, whistle, SOLAS reflective tape, spray hood, and a webbing cutter. There’s also a lifting harness built in (different from the safety harness for the tether) for easier retrieval if you do go overboard (don’t). When you add up these things individually, that aren’t included with the less expensive vests, the value of the Spinlock starts looking a lot better. Thigh straps are also included with the Spinlock, often a separate purchase with other vests. An effective spray hood seems like something that would be difficult and awkward to retrofit to a PFD.
Criticisms
I only have a few small quibbles with the Spinlock Deckvest. The closure can be tricky to operate with thick gloves on, but it feels more durable and secure than the typical buckle so it’s hard to complain. The webbing cutter lives in a little pouch on the inside of the vest, near the closure. It’s not the most ergonomic location, and since you’d mostly be reaching for it in a hurry to cut yourself loose, I wouldn’t count on it as your primary blade. The zipper closure for the vest is also a little fiddly to get right, and it’s a tightly-packed bundle in there so repacking it after a regular check-out will take a little practice. That’s okay, though, because you check your PFD’s bladder and inflation mechanism regularly, right?
Conclusion
Spinlock Deckvest Colors
I love my Spinlock Deckvest 5D inflatable PFD. I got the slightly less-expensive Pro Sensor version rather than the Hammar hydrostatic model, because I don’t see myself sailing on an IMOCA 60 any time soon. They are also now available in different colors (Pacific blue and white) so you can match your foulies better. Which is nice.