Since its origins, tournament angling has made a quantum leap, and being old enough to remember the old, yet young enough to be around for and utilize the breakthroughs is awesome. Seeing our sport grow not only from a participatory standpoint but also from a technology perspective is one of the coolest things about it. Taking advantage of the technology not only gives us more success, but also makes us more comfortable doing it.

Technology is a key ingredient that has elevated bass fishing to levels our grandfathers would have never imagined. GPS, ultra-cool depthfinders, mapping software, underwater cameras and new space-age materials have taken a recreational sport to a much higher level. Anglers love anything new and different, and the evolution of flotation devices has made quantum leaps as well.

Technology has taken something as simple as the lifejacket from bulky and cumbersome to light and comfortable, with improved safety at the forefront. One of the true innovations of this movement is Sospenders by Stearns. They won’t help you put any bass in the boat, but they'll keep you safe if you fall out of one.

Some History on Sospenders

Several years ago, a small, upstart company had an idea to make a lifejacket that not only provided better safety features, but was also so comfortable you could wear it the entire day. The inflatable, suspender-style life jacket was born.

Built as a manual model initially, the Sospenders life jacket took the bass fishing world by storm. Anglers who were wearing heavy, full-impact lifejackets quickly converted to the new suspender style, and the rest is history. Auto versions were next, and anglers were ensured of staying upright and floating, even if unconscious.

Recently purchased by Stearns, a company in the lifesaving business since 1960, Sospenders has evolved even further to several automatic versions with even more comfort and functionality.

The Tests

Our test jacket is a Type III, Model 38MLNG that provides 35 pounds of buoyancy. This jacket is a manual version and has to be activated by the wearer. Basic facts about the jacket include: it's has a comfortable fit, and it can be adjusted to fit over clothing; it's lightweight and does not impede casting; it's durable and can be stored easily; it comes in a variety of colors suitable for hunters and anglers; it's easy to re-arm; and it's Coast Guard-approved.

Users must weigh a minimum of 80 pounds and have a chest size of 30 to 52 inches. In most cases, face-down users will turn face-up when the jacket is activated. It's equipped with CO2 inflation and has a built-in oral inflator.

A built-in whistle, comfortable neck support and tougher-than-nails durability, plus a price (beginning at $164.99 for the World Class Series) make this a must-have for anglers. Quality construction and durability make it a one-time purchase with the exception of the arming kits.

The Sentinel Series (not tested) is a little more expensive, but has some additional bells and whistles, including a neoprene neck liner and adjustable, heavy-duty connectors and straps.

The reason they're called accidents is you never know when one will occur, and Stearns Sospenders are an inexpensive way to stay both safe and comfortable on the water.