45 Degrees Sailingvideo
Which PFD Should You Buy? Ergofit 290 EX Live Demo!
6 February 2026 · 6 min · 2K views
Man in yellow PFD climbs ladder from turquoise sea onto boat
What this video covers
The Crewsaver ErgoFit 290 EX inflatable PFD is demonstrated in the water by Nick and a crew member, covering inflation, fit, and real-world use scenarios. At 290 Newtons of buoyancy, the vest provides enough flotation to support two people simultaneously — Nick demonstrates the HELP (Heat Escape Lessening Position) hold, interlocking legs with a second person while both stay afloat.▶ 1:24 Features covered include a water-activated light, integrated full harness with double crotch strap, a spray hood for wave protection, and internal space for a PLB.▶ 0:06 Nick partially deflates the PFD to demonstrate easier ladder climbing and life-raft boarding, noting that full inflation restricts arm movement.▶ 3:48 The crotch strap's role in a halyard hoist recovery is tested: without it, the harness cannot support a limp body; with it clipped, the crew hauls an unconscious-simulating person out of the water by halyard, confirming the strap is essential for MOB recovery.▶ 4:23 Nick distinguishes use cases: a lighter Crewsaver model for hot-weather coastal day sailing and racing, the ErgoFit 290 EX for offshore and night passages where the hood and PLB pocket justify the bulk.▶ 2:45 Crotch straps are non-negotiable for any harness-based MOB recovery.
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