Humboldt County, California’s Kokatat celebrates its 40th birthday this year, and has ramped up its environmental sustainability, installing a 26-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system in its factory and using GAIA PVC-free foam in their PFDs, among other good things.
Kokatat’s line of Rescue PFDs are recommended by Transport Canada and the United States Coast Guard, and boast reflective tape, ergonomic zippered pockets and attachment points for accessories.
The Guide is designed for the professional sea kayak guide, with reinforced shoulders and the all-important adjustable fit. You tend to forget you’re wearing it. And just in case you really blow it, the quick release chest harness provides a tether/tow system in the event that the coast guard or your kayak guide has to tow you home.
It works well for canoeing, too. We tested it on the Beaver River at high water and on a wild river canoe trip way up north, with all good results.
