I’ve been very happy with our Spinlocks. Comfortable for keeping them on the whole day. We crossed the Atlantic on a boat that had them, and later bought the same for our own boat.

I’ve only ever used the, I believe same, Mustang auto inflated pfd w/D ring harness built in. It has served its purpose for me, but I do not have opportunity/need to use it too often. I bought it to help crew a boat from NC to Bahamas going outside the ICW. I had no complaints about it. but I also didn’t have to put it to use :)

I have two of these. They are much better than the cheaper ones with velcro closures. It fits well and is easy to take on and off. We’ve tested them in the pool and they definitely work well. In terms of negatives, with the steel d-rings, the PFD overall is pretty heavy. Also, the black, rubbery neck area, while nice and soft, can get pretty hot.

Someone else commented on the d-rings banging on things, which is true, but you can fold them back out of the way.

I won’t recommend anything in particular, but before buying an auto inflation vest confirm the price and availability of reload kits. The pill expires after a couple of years.

I don’t know the brand I have off the top of my head, but visually it’s similar to the mustang. I don’t think it matters that much, as long as it works. I figure if I go in the water during a passage, I’m either getting picked up relatively quickly, or fuck it, I’m done. Why prolong the suffering? I do like the harness built in.