Questions regarding Snorkeling Vest/ Size

[Kelfly]

I am planning on ordering a snorkel vest on the internet; they appear to be about $25 cheaper than in the local scuba shops. I forgot to try one on in the store for size and am hoping someone can help me out. Are they all "unisex" sizing? I am a female, generally wear size 8, small busted; What size vest should I order? Is one brand better than the other? I probably won't use it a whole lot; planning on learning to scuba dive sometime this year, but we purchased our own snorkel equipment for Dec cruise and I forgot all about the vest! Thanks!

[rjscott]

I have my own vest, and yes, they are "sized" by adjusting the straps, so you don't have to worry about that. Mine has a kind of flocked backing, which I like, as it makes it more comfortable. A lot of them are just the PVC or other material, and sometimes the edges of the material can be irritating if it chafes your skin as you're snorkeling.

Hope this helps!

 

Becki

[Kelfly]

Thanks Becki:

I noticed they show sizes S, M, L; or are they really just a one size fits all? If I really need to go with a specific size, do you think I should get the small or medium? Thanks again.

[ColoradoLad]

Hi! (reprinted post)

 

I have attached a few URLs that detail a couple products and

a few FAQ's.

 

 

 

 

Whatever: The CO2 vests is not that expensive. It will save your

life. Ok the tour operators do not use them as they are a hassle to

keep up for all the use they recieve (yeah, sure). If you believe you can orally infalte a vest in a an emergency, well I doubt that.

 

I have used "Stormy Seas" for years, my wife does so as well. It

is a must for sailboating activity. They even have a model that will

inflate if you fall in the water.

 

The other benefit is noted in the URL's is that "Rescue" personnel

wear these. As in your snorkeling partner sees you struggling, they swim to you and then pop the CO2 as they pull you up.

 

The real issue is folks with "special needs" old, disabled, lousey swimmer?

I am now older and disabled and I still get in the water.

 

a nice quoted piece on the vests:

The snorkeler can orally inflate and deflate the volume of air in the vest to their requirements. Add just a little air to use it as a "pillow" under your chest to help hold your head and snorkel above water. Fully inflate in stressful situations to relax and rest. Deflate by yourself to return to surface diving activities. Fits comfortably over the snorkelers head and secures firmly to the body with two adjustable straps. Equipped with emergency CO� inflation cartridge system. A quick tug of the cord and poof the vest is instantly inflated. Used only in emergency situations

 

servious discussion of vests

http://www.funincayman.com/wwwboard/messages/292.html

 

Vendors: and FAQ's

http://www.stormyseas.com/vests.html

http://www.stormyseas.com/faqs.html

http://www.go2marine.com/frameset.j...ategoryId/12137

 

a less expensive style $49 on sale

http://www.snorkelcity.com/snorcitsnorv.html

 

PS

 

Practice and get a couple extra CO2 carts and "pop" a few it is fun.

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