50N Buoyancy vest Pockets for canoeing and kayaking

A potentially great product spoiled by inexpensive, easy-to-fix issues. I went to a Decathlon store to try this out and like other reviewers I found that the "Large" size is designed for "the Michelin Man". I weigh 73kg, 178cm tall and think I am pretty normal in proportions. I could not adjust the item for a snug, safe fit because there is simply too little adjustment available. I tried the "Medium" size and that was a much better fit but has a recommended maximum weight of only 60kg - so probably not up to the job.

I found other significant flaws when opening the zip pocket across the chest. Firstly the fabric and the zip are both lightweight and, as a result, when you try to open the zip one-handed it often snags. This didn't happen on every jacket I tried and only then in one direction. When it snagged, the only way to open it fully was to use two hands - obviously not ideal when you need to keep hold of your paddle. Secondly Decathlon seem to be having a (stupid?) penny-pinching, cost-saving binge on zipper tags. If you are paddling on a cold day with numb fingers on the sea, you will want to be able to quickly and easily find the zipper tag and pull it open. However the zips on this jacket have been fitted with a small, flimsy loop of cord that has no "lump" to get hold of. It's a waste of space and probably saved them less than 30p / garment. I found the same useless cord loops fitted on the Decathlon spray cags, which I liked and bought 2 of (2x£30). When I got home I promptly ordered 4 decent zipper tags on eBay for £3.50. I recommend the cags, not the BA.