Why are U.S.-certified PFDs not approved in Canada?
I need some advice about personal flotation devices for sea kayaking. Are they compatible with CelBak hydration systems? I'm also told that U.S.-certified PFDs may not be appropriate for Canadian use. How come, eh? Charles Montreal, Quebec
Orbit Tour
Actually, there are some minor (albeit less facetious) differences between U.S. and Canadian PFDs. In part, it's strictly cosmetic, such as the fact Canadians measure the flotation power of their PFDs in newtons of buoyancy, while we in the United States use pounds. Your Canadian authorities are also a little more stringent about materials testing, particularly in terms of how the strength of certain fabrics can be compromised through the dyeing process.
That said, several U.S.-made PFDs are sold in Canada, including a half-dozen models from Kokatat. For example, their Orbit Tour ($155 Canadian; www.kokatat.com), which would be perfectly suitable for sea kayaking. Additionally, to allay any concerns about its cross-border compatibility, it's approved by the Canadian government's rubber-stampers.
As for a hydration device, why not stick a water bottle under a deck bungee? Costs $5, and works just fine. Otherwise, today's PFDs are so low-profile that most any hydration pack will fit over just fine. The MEC Marathon leaps to mind ($50 Canadian; www.mec.ca).
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