I have been putting in time researching manual inflatable and self inflating PFD'S. I went to one of the big stores the other day, fairly convinced I wanted to go with self inflating PFD'S, when the guy behind the counter said, he took a coast guard water certification, and feels he would go with the manual inflating over self inflating. When asked why, he said some self inflating are known to not inflate when needed to do so. I am a strong swimmer, former lifeguard, but the wife swims like a rock. I spend far more time on the river (Bow) than I do lakes. I lean toward the self inflating for several reasons, especially for the wife. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks