the problem with belt inflatables is when they activate usually you are in the water and the hole where you were supposed to put your head thru is to small for any head and very firm.
Ever since it happened to me, I have been wearing the normal inflatables. I ended up having to hug it to use it to stay afloat. If you hit your head going down it is useless to save your life.
Heard this same thing...but when I'm fishing alone in the winter or wind, I like the added security the belt provides just in case. I've tried fishing with my other inflatables and they just seem to get in the way. The belt I can easily adjust / move around without it being so restrictive around my chest / arms.