I just purchased one though the mail from Bass Pro Shops. It states in the directions you should be a good swimmer to use an inflatable PFD. That is not the case for me!
Stupid question, What is their reasoning? If I was a good swimmer I wouldn’t need it! (I know I’m just saying) I really would like to wear it, It seems so comfortable.
Send it back or wear it?
My guess would be for legal reasoning. Remember if you fall in and you can not pull the cord the pfd will do you no good. I believe here in Illinois it has to be on you to be concedered a true pfd. Up there I do not no for you. You can buy pfds that once they hit water they auto-inflate. Sometime just a good life-jacket is the best. Good luck!!
as mentioned, there is a difference between the manual and auto inflating. There is also a difference between manufactures for the actual shape/style of the inflated portion. Some will have a neck roll to help elevate your head, and others don’t.
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My guess would be for legal reasoning.
Send it back and get one that’s a Type V with Type III performance.
What the hell difference does it make if your a good swimmer or not if you hit your head on the side of the boat and black out! 
I own an auto inflatable I got from Cabelas last year it is very comfortable and inflates when wet. I accidentally found out that it actually does work by leaving it exposed in the rain one time. At least I know it works now!
This vest is a auto/manual
That is what I was thinking!
I know I sound like a broken record, but when you see the difference in a Float Tech and actually wear one, I’m sure you’ll agree they are the most comfortable PFD on the market AND they will turn an unconscious person over in the water.
I’ve been in down pours with clients and they haven’t self inflated. Not sprinkles but down pours.
Nope they are not cheap…but then they don’t have a label that says “you need to be a good swimmer” either.
fish333, we have the same laws up here. No inflatables for kids under 16 years old and they must be worn to me legal. That IS the purpose of the inflatable…to be comfortable enough to be worn and not to look pretty as a seat cover.
Click on the interactive demo after checking out their site. Don’t forget to check out the FAQ section as well.
Since there is a slight delay from immersion to inflation, they are not recommended for non-swimmers.
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they will turn an unconscious person over in the water.
By far, that is the most important aspect of a good PFD. 
Also, don’t forget to check the indicators or dates on them. Those CO2 cartridges don’t last forever and do need to be replaced!
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