New Gear

Summer 2009

Go PVC-free. Here's why.

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.

To download a pdf copy of the magazine click here: DOWNLOAD

PVC is one type of plastic you don't want in your arsenal of kayaking gear. Dioxins are produced in the production of PVC, and over the lifetime of the product a cocktail of toxic chemicals are released back into the environment. It can't be recycled easily, and if burned or incinerated it releases more dioxins and toxic gases. If landfilled, it will release additives that can damage groundwater. For good reason more and more manufacturers are advertising PVC-free products. Here are several from the growing selection.

Aquapac

As well as PVC-free, Aquapac adds to the equation that its waterproof belt case is 100% recyclable. For keys, cash, passports and more, the belt case is submersible to 15 feet and comes with a belt or slip it onto your own. Also look for Aquapac's range of lightweight, flexible and durable waterproof camera cases. www.aquapac.net.

Cascade Designs

This new super-durable PVC-free map case from the Sealline family of Cascade Designs features a secure roll-down plus hook and loop closure, convenient tie-down tabs, and an adjustable neck strap. Take your pick of small, medium or large. We're happy to report the medium fits the BC Recreation Kayaking and Small Boat Atlas quite nicely. (Phew!)
www.cascadedesigns.com

MEC

Transparent drybags are always a bonus – no digging around to ferret out something out of sight in the bottom. MEC's new line is made of non-PVC 0.5mm polyurethane film with radio-frequency welded seams. The bottom is 800-denier PU-coated for extra durability. An oval shape helps with packing. But don't fully submerge – for expensive or vulnerable items, look for hard cases with o-rings or padded waterproof cases. www.mec.ca

Cobra

If you're like the average North American male who goes giddy over electronics, you'll love the new Cobra MR HH125- 3 Watt Waterproof Handheld VHF. It's one of the smallest, most versatile and most affordable yet, with a backlit LCD display and keypad for low-light conditions and built-in NOAA channels and weather alerts. It runs on recyclable AAA batteries (included), and comes with a DC cigarette lighter charger for recharging on the go. Or replace with five standard AAA batteries, meaning continuous use on long trips where recharging isn't possible. www.cobra.com.

NRS

And now something for the women, with apologies that it isn't a bit more flashy or glamorous. But any woman who has sat for several hours in wet pants in a kayak will know glamour isn't always a top priority. The NRS Women's Athena Dry Pants are constructed with breathable 70 x 320-denier ripstop HyproTex 2.5 fabric with fully taped seams , latex gaskets at the ankles and 3-mm neoprene band seals at the waist to keep the water out. A handy thigh pocket stores items you need close at hand. www.nrs.com

Platypus

Any connoisseur of wine knows the taste changes when exposed to oxygen. If not preserved properly, the lifespan can be measure in hours – not good when you're out kayaking for a week. Enter the PlatyPreserve, which can be used to remove oxygen from the container. The bad news: there goes your excuse for finishing the entire bottle in one sitting. www.platy.com