Hello everyone, 

Just putting the idea out there of a new canyon grading system. I know the first thing most people will think, why? We already have three that get used in the UK, what's the need for another, right? 

Over the past year we have been working alongside canyoneers from around the world to design a new grading system designed for aquatic canyons across the world. Both the ACA and the FFME have never been perfect systems, both have drawbacks, for example, they were both designed for the countries they were designed in, as soon as they were used in new, previously unexplored locations they had to be 'stretched to fit' the countries nuances such as average flow and verticality. 

A issue typical with the FFME system is the subjectiveness required to give a grade, one person might think it's V4, another V3. We don't think this should be possible when giving a canyon grade. 

In recent years, there have been many debates regarding the canyons grade due to an unusual problem, grading a canyon by 'feel'. How does this canyon feel compared to other canyons with a similar grade either in the area or overseas. This has led to people not looking at the definitions of the grade and instead give it a grade that may overlook hazards that should warrant a higher grade. This problem is sign of a grading system that is not fit for use. 

Some of you reading this may be thinking, you're not too worried about the details of the grade, all you need is a rough gauge on what a canyon is like. None of this stuff really matters. If that sums up your opinion then if we introduced this new system, nothing would affect you so you have nothing to worry about. For people who have just started canyoning however, the canyons grade is a key resource used to decide whether they have the skills required to descend the canyon, this is why it is so important that we get have a grade that is accurate and not subjective. 

If you have any thoughts on this, leave a comment below!