Onyx A/M-24 Automatic/Manual Inflatable Life Jacket, U.S. Coast Guard Approved, Low Profile, Compact Design, Manual Convertible Inflation Option

I hope I never have to write a complete "real-world" review of this item; short of a test in a pool that would require that I fall in the water, which I'm not inclined to do. the videos posted here and on their web site are enough for me. I absolutely HATE having to wear a life-vest - but to paddle a kayak even in a little creek in NYS you risk arrest and a fine if you aren't wearing one. This is a great option - it's light, unobtrusive, and not uncomfortable. it doesn't restrict movement at all. I like the automatic inflation feature (triggered when a sensor gets wet), and I like the fact that you can disable this feature and operate it manually - if you're rafting in white-water or otherwise getting wet for reasons other than drowning. I love the way the directions are written - offering 'survival tips" like "keeping a positive attitude about being rescued', or "huddling together to stay warm". They even give you a hypothermia chart to illustrate the danger of being in the water too long. It really is good information; water safety is a serious topic - but I did get a chuckle out of it, imagining myself standing in waist-deep water on a 90 degree day in August.

Super comfortable, easy to adjust the fit. Directions were easy to follow to attach the CO2 cartridge. I haven’t test fired or got it wet and had it deploy but I feel safe wearing on the water. Quality build should hold up well.

Low profile, comfortable, very pleased

Very light and good quality!

Delivered on time. Great instructions and well made Auto-Inflate life vest.

Must have for safe boating. Only a million times more comfortable than a regular life jacket. I wouldn’t want to swim in it for fun, but while driving when you know you should have one on this is a game changer.

Been using this when paddleboarding on Lake Murray, SC. Love that it is totally not intrusive or heavy. I keep it in the "manual" mode so that it doesn't inflate when I have a "normal" fall or want to get off the board. Even if laying flat on the board to start paddling, the canister does not bother me. Most of the time, I don't even feel like I'm wearing it. As a retired Phys Ed / Aquatics teacher, lifeguard & lifeguard instructor, WSI etc, I understand the necessity for safety, but also understand that many life jackets are uncomfortable. Not the case here. I also like that I can use it in my kayak, on motorized boat etc.

Easy to setup and use.