Inflatable PFD's

Right, so I am a little obsessed with my new boat. I got up extra early this morning to do a little research on the various message boards so that I can work on my boat tonight. Among other things I was researching clam cleats. Nevermind...long story.

Ran across several threads on the MacGregor/Venture Discussion board about capsizing and MOB incidents. Thankfully, there were also threads about PFD's. Now I am probably the first guy in a line of sailors who doesn't break out the PFDs until there appears to be a need. But...with the onset of man-o-pause right around the corner, I find myself more and more inclined to having things like a charged hand-held VHF and a submersible GPS close at hand at all times.

I have a little boat (v17) and I got a little boat because it is very easy to single-handedly trailer, rig and sail. That said, reading the boards this morning struck enough of my fear chords that the purchase of an auto inflating PFD is now on top my list of purchases. Especially for the single-handed days.

My question for you all is what to look for in such a device. I am not able to identify significant differences between the $350 West Marine models and the $80 model from Cabela's.

Thanks,

Rick