PFD's and shoes

[stringalong]

I need to buy a PFD and wet shoes for open boat on the Buffalo. Any opinions on type/brand?

[Crane]

Buy the best pfd you can afford... and helmet! For open-boating, I found the NRS low-top shoes with felt soles to work well... flexable ankles and the felt keeps you from slipping on rocks... Can't wear them in a yak, since they are pretty klunky, but in an open boat they are nice... Crane

[gnick4]

I bought an Astral v-eight PFD, very open and airy with a great fit. Comfortable enough to wear all the time and you forget it is on. FWIW.

[Cowper]

Since you said, "for the Buffalo", I'm wondering if you are considering "year around use", or more Late Spring/ Summer/Early Fall trips, when both weather and water are warmer.

If you're outfitting only for warm weather trips, you might want to consider a pair of Keens. Honestly, my sandals are more comfortable, but the Keens protect my toes better, are safer because they are less likely to snag on something and trap my foot, and allow at least a little bit of foot drying in between wades.

[unicorn]

vibram five fingers, kso's for warm weather and flows for cold

[stringalong]

Do those felt soled shoes run true to size? Or do they run large or small, narrow or wide? Those are interesting.

[Clif]

Try it on!! pfd. I have found I need different ones for different boats, trips. Different boats require different mobility to paddle, so the one that works well in the yak bothers me in the canoe. A tight fitting one that feels secure may also get hot in the summer. this make any sense?

[Crane]

My recollection is that they only sell in whole sizes and a 10 fits my 9 1/2 foot fine. They stretch... CRane

[Dagger]

I would also like to know if anyone has pfd suggestions for open boaters. I've been asked this question by several beginners for up to class II use. I understand fit/comfort play a big role but any suggestions on a particular pfd that works for you would be appreciated.

Alan

[gnick4]

Astral v-eight
Breathable, high back for seats and dang comfortable for guys or gals.