I know what you're referring to John and I had the same concerns with crews wearing them in the GT300 (SI's require Coast Guard Approved PFD's). Unfortunately (or fortunately) after the skipper's meeting, I'm no longer a Race Officer, I'm a racer. One person who was wearing one (a close female friend) chose that model because of comfort (like you pointed out). At my urging a few weeks before, we took a swim out in the surf with her wearing it. I wanted to see how well it kept her afloat in a totally relaxed position (like if you were exhausted). I was comfortable with it, so I didn't harp on her about it anymore. I left if as a matter of choice for her and if someone protested, it was out of my hands. I guess my bottom line question was, "are they totally safe?" I feel that they are. I'm kind of a boner about safety too. I would like to see the wording get changed to be able to use them "legally". If their more comfortable, I think a crew member may be able to swim faster to catch a capsized boat or pull themselves on board easier. In the mean time, I wouldn't protest someone for using one.