.........Women's PFD

Stohlquist's Mobius

Construction: The front is configured of three foam panels with a zipper on the side. One large mesh pocket positioned on the center panel.
Features: The armholes are radically cut for comfort. Both reviewers commented that the pocket is too small. VK said,"I doubt a set of flares would fit, much less other things one might want." LR noted that,"if this PFD had a bellows pocket, it would make for a perfect PFD."
Fit: Good fit for both reviewers.
Ease of entry/exit: Both paddlers felt that this vest takes some getting used to in terms of putting it on. LR said that "It is easy to put on once you get oriented to the side zipper; however, I had to loosen the shoulder webbing to put it on and take it off."
Adjustability: VK had some difficulty with adjusting the straps: "By the time I tightened the shoulder straps to make the vest the right length, the opening for my head was a little too small."
Range of motion: Excellent. The radically cut armholes, according to LR, "allow for a huge range of forward motion while paddling-encouraging torso rotation." LR notes, however, that the extra bulk of foam in front makes for a decreased range of motion in forward bending positions.
Visibility: Yellow with navy trim give this PFD good visibility; however, there is no reflective tape or fabric.
Buoyancy: Both reviewers rated this PFD the highest of any of those tested in buoyancy. "[This is] the only Type III PFD I have ever tried that causes me to float face up-this appears to be a design break-through."(LR) This PFD did not ride up when tested in the water, and was easy to swim in. "Extremely comfortable for both paddling and swimming."(VK)
Price: $84.95. Stohlquist Waterware, P.O. Box 3059, Buena Vista, CO 81211, Phone: (800) 535-3565.