I'm 5'10" 160lbs and have a 39.5" chest. Orderded LG/XL and it was way too big. Exchanged for SM/MD and it fits perfect. Love the vest - the shoulder straps are great for long carries, and the beverage pocket is indespensible.
The Stohlquist Descent is my favorite pfd. It fits me perfectly, is not too bulky and has all the accessories I need. The pocket is fairly large and can fit everything I want to bring. It is easy to get on and off and I really like the padded shoulders. For portaging while kayaking the padded shoulders make a big difference.
Name: Casey Cunningham Review Date: 4/14/2011 6:20 am Rating:
This is a really nice PFD. I really like the low profile fit and the large pockets. No complaints!
The Stohlquist Descent is a great Jacket, if you like the Australs before they changed to the reen jacket then you will like this one. It rides low and has great pockets to store your things, and floats great. the only thing I wish it had was a pocket to put my tow line. I´m not a big fan of elastic tow lines so I have a static line but you can stuff it on the side and it works just as well.
I have been through a panopoly of rescue PFDs over the past few years; all the names and models you'd recognize. I can honestly say the Descent is the best fitting and most comfortable PFD I have ever owned, bar none. It does not ride up, period. It's not as bulky across the stomach as the Green Jacket; however for serious creekers should check if the Green Jacket comes up a little higher on your spine. I think the Descent has more spine padding. Try them both and you decide. I've had two Green Jackets (different sizes) and I prefer the Descent. The L/XL size fits me to a "T".
Stohlquist's Descent Rescue PFD is a comfortable, innovative rescue vest that incorporates the features necessary to have a successful rescue mission. The Descent has Add a Buoy technology to give you more flotation when necessary and the ability to store a rope in the front pouch.
Stohlquist's Descent Rescue Lifejacket Features:
Body wrapping ergonomically articulated WRAPTURE shaped torso
Cross chest cinch harness adjustment and self tensioned shoulders for a balanced fit
Gripp-Loc interior non-slip panel for zero ride up
6 adjustments, side pulls, and front waist buckle closure
Low cut, offset front zip entry with zipper grip tab
Ventilated lumbar pad
Free-floating suspended shoulder straps stretch as you move
Contoured padded shoulder straps
Nail Cloth textured surface with stiffeners for portaging and added shoulder protection
High visibility 3M reflective accents
"Garage" on top with secure D-Ring to park your whistle, keys, or chapstick
Hands free expandable mesh "beverage" pocket
Self expanding, secure, high capacity main pocket for safety accessories, camera, snacks, throw bag, and other river tools
Quick release rescue harness for instruction, strong swimmer and equipment retrievals
Self-centering 1 1/2" black oxide stainless steel rescue O ring
Quick release accessory for tow teather with optional anchor positioning
Front accessory lash tab for river knife
Stainless steel loop anchor points for accessory attachments (harness)
500 denier cordura shell and 200 denier oxford liner
Type V PFD with sea level buoyancy of 17 lbs.
CE, UL and ULC Listed US and Canada Coast Guard approved.
