I have both a CE and USCG PDF. My bags got lost on my way to the Worlds in France and I had to pick a new one up there. I prefer sailing with the European one as it is way more comfortable. I use it for all of my evening sails and most regattas when I notice others using non-USCG equip as well.
I am now on the lookout for a really comfy USCG that matches the one I like. I think it is time for new ones anyway. I replace them every couple of years. Wish I could make my own like I do my harnesses. Then they would be really nice and custom.
As I remember researching the difference I think the CE rating is 50 and the USCG is 55. I think that refers to percentage of flotation compared to the average weight of sized (S,M,L,XL) person. So the USCG would be 10% bigger, that seems like quite a bit to me, and it feels like it.
