ACA ACA Equipment & Gear Knowledge

Question 1

What does 'Type III' refer to on a US Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD)?

Accepted Answer

Flotation aid for calm inland water activities

Answer

Offshore life preserver for rough water

Answer

Throwable device

Answer

Immersion suit

Question 2

What is the ACA's minimum PFD standard for students during instructional courses?

Accepted Answer

PFDs must be Coast Guard-approved and worn at all times on the water

Answer

PFDs must be in the boat but not required to be worn

Answer

Only Type V PFDs are acceptable

Answer

PFDs are optional for adult students

Question 3

Which kayak hull design is most suitable for ACA flatwater beginner instruction due to its stability?

Accepted Answer

Displacement hull with flat or pontoon bottom

Answer

Planing hull

Answer

Rounded hull

Answer

V-hull

Question 4

What is the recommended paddle length for a beginner kayaker who is 5'8" using a touring kayak?

Accepted Answer

220 cm

Answer

200 cm

Answer

210 cm

Answer

230 cm

Question 5

What is the purpose of a spray skirt during kayak instruction?

Accepted Answer

Prevents water from entering the cockpit

Answer

Adds buoyancy to the kayak

Answer

Improves forward paddling efficiency

Answer

Provides thermal insulation for the paddler

Question 6

Which helmet standard does ACA recommend for whitewater instruction?

Accepted Answer

CE EN 1385 or equivalent whitewater helmet standard

Answer

ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 industrial hard hat

Answer

CPSC bicycle helmet standard

Answer

No specific helmet standard is required