Ionizer:
I’m with ya, Kayaker . I’ve done plenty of whitewatering on both yaks and ‘rafts’, and am a strong swimmer. The ClassIII vest was always with me, but only worn when I felt it necessary (like a few places in Hell’s Canyon, or Murtaugh Stretch of Snake River , most of Salmon River etc). Most of my cohorts did the same other than those that were not as strong at swimming (and admitted it!). To ride my raft without a jacket, even upon flat water, you had to show me physically that you could jump/remain in the deepish/icy water and not freak out (keep the wits, so to speak). Jackets were mandatory when water went white, though.
My husband the construction safety professional gives this attitude two thumbs way up!
(Yes, that was complete and utter sarcasm. He also says that people with this attitude usually end up getting what they deserve.)
Ionizer:
I’m with ya, Kayaker . I’ve done plenty of whitewatering on both yaks and ‘rafts’, and am a strong swimmer. The ClassIII vest was always with me, but only worn when I felt it necessary (like a few places in Hell’s Canyon, or Murtaugh Stretch of Snake River , most of Salmon River etc). Most of my cohorts did the same other than those that were not as strong at swimming (and admitted it!). To ride my raft without a jacket, even upon flat water, you had to show me physically that you could jump/remain in the deepish/icy water and not freak out (keep the wits, so to speak). Jackets were mandatory when water went white, though.
I’m not a kayaker myself, but all professional companies, and all guide books and schools, stress that you should always wear a helmet and vest when kayaking, because (as said already) it doesn’t matter that you can swim if you hit your head or otherwise become handicapped. A few moments are enough, after all.