Around here PFDs are mandatory racing or not, period.

Also, we usually ask sailors to store their cell phones inside a watertight bag and keep them in their PFD pocket or tied to them. Direct communication with the rescue boat helps locate a swimmer, who usually sees the boat before it can see him. Coverage must be available, which is not a problem here.

I guess for a Windsurfer, Kite, Moth, Cat or Skiff, the risk of a high speed impact is a greater concern than the risks covered by a standard PFD. Comfortable high flotation impact vests with built in (gps?) communication are the future replacement of simple vests.