I have very fond memories of a float coat I literally wore out over a ten year period, using primarily on power boats, but also on an occasional sail (around the SoCal Channel Islands, where 50 degree water, fog, and wind were common). Comfortable, warm, and highly practical - no problems with breathability. They were perfect for skiffing operations and surf work. Somewhat to my surprise, several of us found them very practical for paddling a sit on top kayak, especially when combined with wet suit bottoms. I never wound up wearing one in the water, but mine (I believe it was a Mustang) had a fold up neoprene beavertail which would protect the crotch area, greatly enhancing survivability while immersed. The biggest problem with them is that they lose floatation capability through time - by the time someone discarded mine for me, I doubt that it was anywhere near its original specs.