On 18-Mar-2005, John Fereira wrote:

On the other hand, each of the safety devices listed has a purpose and for
some of them trying to save a few bucks will make them essentially
ineffective. For example:
[...]
In any case, there are areas where saving some money makes sense and other
where saving a few bucks just isn't worth the possible conquences of having
ineffective equipment.

I cannot agree more. The safety equipment is there for a reason. Get the
right stuff and know how to use it. If you're paddling in the Great Lakes,
you're going to be involved in heavily used waters. The difference between
air and water temps is significant and the weather can change fast.

Mike