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Life-Saving Fashion: Changing Perceptions Of The PFD

By Kara Pecknold - June 28, 2010

in Object Culture

We're getting excited about the upcoming holiday weekend that will find us indulging some rest, relaxation and riding the open seas. As we plan for our mini break, we're asking the question, "To PFD or not PFD?"

A PFD or Personal Flotation Device is typically noted for its bulk and brightness and this combination tends to deter boaters from wearing it, increasing the chances of drowning should an accident arise. Kathleen Westerhout and Dana Ramler noted that the current belt pack, which was developed by Mustang Survival to change perceptions of PFD use, could use a fashionable face lift. Their concept, known as The Bandeau Belt, is targeted to the female boater and adds a measure of fashion to the flotation device so as to encourage safe boating practices for the seafaring woman. During the course of this collaborative project, Westerhout and Ramler worked with a team of engineers and designers at Mustang to ensure the belt met all Coast Guard certifications in order to be assessed for consumer use in the future.

How it works In the case of an emergency, the user pulls the tab to release a CO2 canister, which will inflate the bladder within the belt. As it expands, the bladder is forced through a breakout zipper along the bottom seam. The user can then place the fully inflated device over her head. Yellow webbing attaches it to the housing so it doesn't float away and the mouthpiece can be used to moderate air pressure to a comfortable level. After one use, the canister can be replaced and the bladder is re-packed into the housing - ready to be worn again.

Photo credit: Mark Stokoe

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Anne

14 years ago

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why don't they just freakin wear a life jacket? Like no boater is going to make fun of you if you are. . . and if they do they are asking to drown. It's their own fault. If you get knocked out this thing won't work. But just remember everyone is responsible for their own lives, i sure as hell wouldn't wear that. I don't wear a life jacket either. But if I'm 1 in 1000 to get into a accident then so be it, I would deserve it.
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Amanda

14 years ago

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I have to disagree with both comments. Where I live, wearing life-jackets is mandatory. Belt pack life-jackets, which is what this product is, are common place, and have the same deficiencies (must be conscious), but are recommended and certified nonetheless. If I'm jumping into the water to swim recreationally, I'd be taking my life-jacket anyways, regardless if its a puffy vest or a belt pack.

I think its an amazing product. It does not replace traditional life-jackets for more dangerous applications, but makes casual and lifestyle boating MUCH safer. Wearing a life-jacket regardless of the deficiencies and stigmas is better than not wearing a life-jacket at all.

Congrats girls!
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Shirty Tailor

14 years ago

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'In the case of an emergency, the user pulls the tab to release a CO2 canister'... the assumption that the wearer is conscious makes it a no-no as far as I'm concerned.
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Rob @ GruvDesign

14 years ago

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I think the big turnoff is comfort. On a hot day in the sun, the last thing you want is more fabric on you. Also, I jump in the water all the time, this would impede that, and stay wet when you get back in. Leave the PFDs for oceanic vessels. :)
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