Better bay dogs = cooler catch dogs...
If I was sending my CD's from 500yds to an uncertain bay, then I'd opt for a plate style vest...
but I like to get close, turn in, and get-r-done... CD don't have much time to get hot that way.
I'll stick with a full vest to better protect my "short duration" catch dogs.
What he said.
I use the Guardian Kevlar from Wild Boar USA. Walk or drive my catch dog in close as possible with vest in hand. Vest up and send in. Unvest again after the catch.