You could also mention another benefit of the inflatable. The lack of bouyancy when not inflated often helps you roll. The standard pfd can slow you down and can stop you positioning yourself as you want. That is not to say that the standard pfd can't help you as well, but then in other situations.
John
: I've also been wondering what PFDs others use. I use a SOSpender...the kind
: that inflates when I pull the cord. It is also manually inflatable. I use
: that kind because it is generally pretty hot where I paddle and fish. I
: put it on and forget it.