Sospenders are available in both automatic and manual inflation models and the automatic models can also be converted to the manual only mode quite easily. The automatic inflation models are equipped with an automatic water-activated inflation system that will inflate the PFD within three seconds of full immersion in water. It is also equipped with a manual "jerk-to-inflate" pull tab that when pulled sharply in a downward motion instantly inflates the PFD. Another option on all models is the oral inflation tube, located inside the cover on the left side when the PFD is worn.

Another bonus is Sospenders will turn most disabled or unconscious victims from a face down to a face up, nose and mouth out of the water position. This is of great importance to bass fishermen because of the high speed travelled in most bass boats. If you get thrown from a boat doing 70 mph, there's a good chance you might be knocked unconscious or at least disabled in some manner.

While offering many advantages over conventional PFD's, Sospenders do have a few disadvantages you want to consider. First of all, these are a Type V PFD, meaning they are only approved when worn. This means they do not satisfy the U.S. Coast Guard carriage requirements for a recreational vessel. In other words, you need to wear the Sospenders at all times or at least have another conventional PFD in the boat to meet the carriage requirements on your vessel.

Something else to consider is these things aren't failsafe. When in the automatic mode, the CO2 cartridge is susceptible to premature inflation and it may go unnoticed because the cannister could have a slow leak lasting several days. These won't do you any good if they aren't inflated, and there's a slight chance it may not inflate when you are unable to manually inflate it. However, if you follow the simple instructions in the owners manual and check the status of the inflator and cylinder before each use, there shouldn't be a problem.

Finally, this PFD should not be used in activities where water impact is expected such as waterskiing, riding personal watercraft or whitewater rafting. You would obviously have a problem with the inflator activating every time it got wet. Also, it should not be used by children under the age of 16 or by persons weighing less than 80 pounds.

Despite the obvious disadvantages to the product, Sospenders looks like a great idea that is absolutely made to order for tournament or recreational fishermen. Bottom line is this product is extremely comfortable to wear, especially during periods of warm weather when most drowning accidents occur and also the time of year we are least likely to be wearing a life jacket. As the brochure says, "comfort is a key point because the PFD you wear is the one most likely to save your life."