There is no question that your best friend on the boat is your Mustang floatation device! No matter your years of experience, having and wearing your Personal Floatation Device (PFDs) should not be optional. Mustang floatation devices will be your best friend on the boat if things go wrong on the water.
Traditional life jackets are bulky and can be uncomfortable to wear (and usually end up as a seat cushion), while inflatable PFDs are lightweight and comfortable.
There are also two different types of inflatable PFDs – self-inflating and hydrostatic. Self-inflating PFDs are activated by pulling a cord which will charge a CO2 cartridge making for quick inflation when it counts. Hydrostatic PFDs, on the other hand, are activated by a water pressure valve. The pressure valve is designed to open when the user is submerged in water, automatically inflating the PFD. This type of PFD is excellent for those who want to be prepared for any emergency.
In this article, we will discuss some of the top inflatable PFD’s manufactured by Mustang Survival. Here at PNWA, we view Mustang Floatation Devices as a favourite for PFDs and want to take a minute to highlight this Canadian-based manufacturer. Mustang Survival is a leading manufacturer of personal flotation devices (PFDs) and survival equipment, with a long history of innovation in safety products. Established in 1967 and headquartered in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada, Mustang Survival has a global presence with offices in the United States, Europe and Asia. The company is renowned for its ground-breaking and affordable line of inflatable PFDs, both self-inflating and hydrostatic, designed to provide unparalleled protection from the elements.
Mustang Survival is committed to providing the highest quality products and services and offers a generous two-year limited warranty on all their PFDs. This commitment to quality control and customer satisfaction has earned Mustang Survival a reputation as one of the world’s most reliable and trusted manufacturers of PFDs and survival equipment! Mustang floatation devices will be your best friend on the boat without question.
Let’s take a look at some of their lineup!
- Waste belt configuration
- Manual activation pull chord
- 18lb buoyancy rate capable of supporting 200lbs +
The Mustang Minimalist PFD inflatable belt pack is the most basic of the Mustang floatation devices. This PFD provides maximum comfort and minimal bulk.
The Mustang Minimalist PFD is rated with an 18lb buoyancy rate which is adequate for the average 200lb person. This model utilizes a pull-chord activation system. There is no hydrostatic model available in this model. The PFD is charged using a CO2 cylinder. There is also a manual inflation valve as a secondary method.
Weighing just 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) the Minimalist can be worn all day without restricting movement. The waist strap is adjustable and can fit waists ranging from 60 cm (23.6 inches) to 152 cm (59.8 inches).
Overall, the Mustang Minimalist PFD inflatable belt pack is an excellent choice for serious enthusiasts and also makes an excellent spare for guests on the boat. The minimalist is easy to store and can be worn with confidence making your days safe and fun!
- Comfort fit with a 40-inch waist belt
- Manual activation pull chord
- 15.7lb buoyancy rate capable of supporting 200lbs
The Mustang MIT 70 Manual Inflatable PFD is the flagship in Mustang’s lineup of personal flotation devices. This model is a manual-activated (pull-chord) PFD with a buoyancy rating of 15.7 lbs and weighs just 1.2 lbs.
This unit has a PFD approval of “Harmonized Level 70”. Meaning it is intended to maintain buoyancy for short periods of time on sheltered water where rescue is nearby. This makes this unit suitable for the average stillwater enthusiast. With a 15.7lb buoyancy rating, it suits any person in the 200lb range. It has an adjustable waist strap that can extend up to 40 inches in length.
Overall, the Mustang MIT 70 Manual Inflatable PFD is a great, lightweight, affordable product. It offers excellent value for the price while providing safety for the average person on smaller waters. This model is a favourite because you can be sure it will give you the safety you deserve without sacrificing comfort.
- Comfort fit with 56-inch waist strap
- Manual pull chord with dual Hydrostatic activation
- 28lb buoyancy rate capable of supporting almost any adult
The Mustang MIT 100 Automatic Inflatable PFD is the next level in the Mustang line-up of PFDs.
This Mustang Floatation Device has a buoyancy rating of 28lb and a PFD approval rating of Type III. Intended for sheltered waters where rescue is nearby. The increased buoyancy rating accommodates almost any sized adult.
This model is both hydrostatic and manual, meaning it will activate when submerged in water for more than ten seconds. Alternatively, you can activate it with the conveniently placed pull chord. This gives you an added layer of protection that will keep you safe no matter the circumstances.
The PFD is lightweight, weighing only 1.32 lbs, and the waist strap is adjustable up to 56 inches in circumference. The Mustang MIT 100 Automatic Inflatable PFD is an excellent choice for those who need to bulk up in cold weather because it has an oversized fit and will support a more significant load. Great for those shoulder seasons when you need to layer up!
Of note, a straight manual version of the MIT 100 is available; however, there is only a $20.00 price difference between the two. For the added safety that comes with the hydrostatic model, we would highly recommend the Hydrostatic MIT 100 Model.
- Sport fit with adjustable waistband
- Manual activation pull chord
- 18lb buoyancy rate capable of supporting 200lbs
The Mustang Elite 28 Hydrostatic Inflatable PFD is a top-of-the-line personal flotation device from Mustang Survival. This model really takes it to the next level and is sure to be your best friend on the boat!
This Mustang floatation device has a buoyancy rating of 22.5 lbs and a PFD classification of Type III. Still intended for sheltered waters but does offer an improved design for added comfort. And it has a high visibility coloration when deployed for rescue scenarios. This unit is more than adequate for that 200lb weight class and gives room for added bulk in the shoulder seasons.
Equipped with a hydrostatic inflation system triggered by a stainless steel toggle mechanism that automatically activates when immersed in water and inflates the life jacket to its total buoyancy. Co2 charging cartridges are easily replaced after use.
Overall, the Mustang Elite 28 Hydrostatic Inflatable PFD is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable life jacket for various watersports activities. The hydrostatic inflation system is reliable and easy to charge, and the lightweight and adjustable design makes it comfortable to wear. Another great option from Mustang for the recreational boating/fishing enthusiast!
Mustang Survival – HIT Hydrostatic
- Comfort fit with adjustable waistband
- Hydrostatic activation when submersed in 4″ of water
- 38lbs of buoyancy suitable for any adult
The Mustang HIT Hydrostatic Inflatable PFD is a top-tier model in the Mustang line of PFDs and will never leave you hanging in a pinch!
This model offers a massive buoyancy rating of 38 lbs. of floatation and Type II Classification. This vest is designed as an offshore PFD for people in rough or isolated waters.
The technical aspects of the hydrostatic function are impressive. The PFD is charged with a built-in CO2 cylinder, which automatically activates when the PFD is submerged in 4″ of water pressure. This ensures that the PFD will be ready to inflate when needed while preventing inadvertent activation from rain or spray.
This PFD is lightweight, weighing just 2.45 lbs, and the waist strap is adjustable, allowing for a secure and comfortable fit.
So many of us go to great lengths to go where nobody else exists. What happens if you get in trouble when at those isolated mountain lakes? Something to consider when heading out to those remote waters is an upgraded PFD! Overall, the Mustang HIT Hydrostatic Inflatable PFD is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable life jacket for those next-level adventures.
Buoyancy Rating defined
Buoyancy rating refers to the amount of buoyancy a vessel or object can provide. A buoyancy rating is expressed in terms of pounds per square foot. For example, a 225 lb person would require a buoyancy rating of approximately 22.5 lbs per square foot for safe operation.
Tips
If you spend time on the water, you’ve heard a story of someone who went in! We have spent decades travelling to the remote waters of the PNW and can tell you that there is no more crucial piece of equipment than your PFD!
Hydrostatic Vs. Manual deployment – When you are on the water, anything can happen. While manual PFD’s are convenient and easy, the hydrostatic model adds another level of safe deployment. Imagine you are falling out of your boat and hit your head before going in. You become unconscious. The Hydrostatic model ensures that your PFD will deploy no matter what. This adds another level of safety that can’t be disputed! Something to consider when making your purchase.
Note, Inflatable PFDs are not designed for use by small children. It is recommended that children wear a traditional life jacket that has been properly fitted.
