Stay connected in the wind. This forum is for anyone who rides the wind, winter or summer, on whatever board suits their fancy. Share the stoke, find out where people are going, ask any question, share your discoveries, and discuss any esoteric idea you may have related to the pursuit of wind. Please keep it positive.
Check out some paddling vests. REI, Midwest Mountaineering etc have quite a selection. They offer the most freedom of movement. Look for one with minimal things to catch lines on.
I use a Neil Pryde 4000 high-hook flotation vest made especially for kiteboarding and windsurfing. It is form fitting, has a cut-out to accomodate a waist harness and optional hydration reservoir on the back. Very slick.
I have a DaKine Impact harness. It floats me fine, Not a PFD but keeps you afloat when searching for your board. And on hard crashes a must.... I will say the hook on the Impact Harness is a bit high on the torso.
I've been using a Pro-Motion, floater jacket. It's made by the same company that makes great wet suits out in the gorge, great quality! The floater jacket rides above the spreader bar and there is an extra strap that can be used to sinch the bottom of the jacket to your spreader bar so the jacket doesn't ride up. It's a little heavier than the standard impact vest, but I love the extra float and core warmth I get in the spring and fall when worn over a wet suit. It's fine in warmer months when I'm W/O wet suit.
