Something that has always concerned me with large pockets on the front of kayaking PFDs is the potential for them to restrict getting back on board the kayak after a turtle. If the pockets are too full they may catch on the sides/deck gear, or in rough conditions make it too difficult to porpoise accross the deck. If you've never tried a re-entry in rough conditions with fully laden pockets, give it a go, it can be a little more tricky than many might think.

 

One thing I really like about the NRS Chinook is the way the've shifted the bouyancy foam on the back to behind your shoulders. This means the back panel isn't affected by medium height SOT seats, stopping the PFD from riding up. This makes it very comfortable when paddling and when leaning back on the seat while fishing.