ACA ACA Equipment & Gear Standards 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Why should paddlers wear a wetsuit or drysuit in cold water, even on a warm day?
- To look more professional as an instructor
- To protect against cold shock and hypothermia if they capsize (Correct answer)
- To add buoyancy beyond what the PFD provides
- To comply with ACA dress code requirements
Correct answer: To protect against cold shock and hypothermia if they capsize
Cold water can cause cold shock and hypothermia within minutes of immersion, regardless of air temperature, making thermal protection essential.
Question 2: What is the '120 Rule' used in paddling to determine cold-water clothing requirements?
- You must wear a wetsuit if the water temperature is below 120°F
- If the sum of air and water temperatures in Fahrenheit is less than 120, immersion protection is required (Correct answer)
- Paddle only when water visibility exceeds 120 feet
- Paddlers must be within 120 feet of shore at all times
Correct answer: If the sum of air and water temperatures in Fahrenheit is less than 120, immersion protection is required
The 120 Rule states that when the combined air and water temperature in Fahrenheit totals less than 120, paddlers should wear immersion protection.
Question 3: What is the recommended paddle length for a flat-water touring kayaker of average height?
- 180–190 cm
- 210–220 cm (Correct answer)
- 230–240 cm
- 250–260 cm
Correct answer: 210–220 cm
A 210–220 cm paddle is typically appropriate for a recreational or touring kayaker of average height (5'6"–6'0") using a standard touring kayak.
Question 4: What type of blade shape is generally preferred for whitewater kayaking and why?
- Long, narrow wing blade for high efficiency
- Short, wide blade for quick, powerful strokes (Correct answer)
- Asymmetric touring blade for long-distance cruising
- Symmetrical flat blade for easy bracing
Correct answer: Short, wide blade for quick, powerful strokes
A short, wide whitewater blade allows for quick, high-power strokes and braces needed to navigate rapids and turbulent water.
Question 5: What is a 'dry bag' used for in paddling, and what IP rating ensures waterproofing?
- Storing food; IP44 rating is sufficient
- Protecting essential gear from water immersion; roll-top closure provides waterproofing without an IP rating (Correct answer)
- Floating spare paddles; no rating needed
- Holding rescue equipment; IP68 is mandatory
Correct answer: Protecting essential gear from water immersion; roll-top closure provides waterproofing without an IP rating
Dry bags use a roll-top closure that creates a watertight seal when rolled and clipped, protecting gear from immersion without requiring an IP rating.
Question 6: Why is it important for an ACA instructor to inspect equipment before every paddle session?
- To verify that gear is up to date with the latest ACA catalog
- To identify worn or defective equipment that could fail during the session (Correct answer)
- To demonstrate thoroughness to students for liability purposes
- To ensure all equipment matches in color and brand
Correct answer: To identify worn or defective equipment that could fail during the session
Pre-session equipment inspection catches worn straps, cracked helmets, leaky spray skirts, and other defects that could create unsafe situations on the water.
ACA ACA Equipment & Gear Standards 2
Why should paddlers wear a wetsuit or drysuit in cold water, even on a warm day?