NRS has recalled one of their paddlefloats. I guess the inflation tube was breaking off causing the entire thing to deflate when you needed it most. They are offering a replacement to the 1000 or so that got past the quality assurance at the factory.

If you have been having trouble, I would suggest this type of float.

More info on the recall here.

For those interested in the different types of plastic used for molding boats, there is a really interesting technical discussion going on right now at playak.com. Several companies have weighed in on the issue of strength verses weight including representatives of Dragorossi and Eric Jackson of Jackson Kayak.

Eric even did a quick podcast talking about raw plastic that they use. Very interesting. Here is the link.

Saw this and thought it needed to be posted. I don't know what to think about it yet. Interesting application though...

Here is the description from the Canadian Tire website:

• EZ-Tent^TM system for simple set up
• 7" (18 cm) solar panel is placed on the top of the tent's hub and clicked into place. Fly is then placed on top of solar panel & tent, and sun will charge the panel through the clear PVC window at the top of the fly
• Solar panel comes with case to be stored safely in tent duffle bag
• Integrated LED rope lights line the top of the tent on the inside and a centre removable hand-held flashlight can be taken down or left as centre light
• Automatic function allows lights to be able to come on as the sun sets, if desired
• Solar panels can be charged in direct or indirect light; will take approx 4-6 hours of direct light to yield 2-4 hours tent light; 8-10 hours of indirect light to yield 2-4 hours tent light
• Solar panel can also be used independently to charge batteries

Thanks to groovygreen for the link.

North Water has a really interesting new product out on the market this year. They have developed a really simple tow tether specifically for recreation boats. It looks like a really simple solution for getting back to the dock of a small lake or towing your kids around.

Here is the description form the site:

This tow tether is built for flat water towing. Attach it to the grab-loop of the towed boat and deck lines within reach of the rescuer. The unique attachment system can be used as a rip-away quick release from both ends. Made from 15' of easy to see, floating 1" webbing and comes in a high visibility reflective bag.

I'm sure that people out there will think that towing should only be done with a safety release towline but we all know that the people paddling in rec. boats will never go out and buy a towline so the industry might as well make something a step up form that horrible yellow braided line that I often see being used...

For to long I have been using my paddle to hold my own in a good water fight. When it is time to bring out the big guns, you need to be prepared. This will be the ticket.

No I just need to find a way that I can stuff it in my PFD so it is accessible at a moments notice...

More info: altrec.com