Universal Inflatable PFD Thigh Straps

[rpoint16]

I did a search on this before posting & came up with no threads...

Does anyone have any experience with these?

This is the West Marine model: WEST MARINE Universal Inflatable PFD Thigh Straps at West Marine

They seem to make sense. It's just funny that if they are so critical to the auto-inflatable PFD function, that 1) they are not more common , & 2) maybe they shoud be intergrated into the PFD.

Any thoughts?

[denverd0n]

The reason that they're not more common, or integrated into more PFDs, is because a lot of people don't like them. They find them uncomfortable, or hard to use. The fact that they can make the difference between life and death doesn't seem to be a factor.

[sestina]

Thigh straps are a confounded nuisance, they hook up on everything. The practical alternative is a single "thong". Gentlemen, don't have it too tight, or you'll be singing in the treble section of the choir.

[jackdale]

This is what I use

Mustang Leg Strap Assembly

I have not had an issue with the strap catching on anything.

A couple of MAIB reports have mentioned the need for crotch straps. In the 2010 Southern Straits race one crew member had came out of his inflatable during a rescue.

ISAF offshore races require them.