Availability and cost, pure and simple.

I've used lifeboats in the past, and I find that a thrice lacquered strike anywhere is almost as good and easier to find something to light it on. I've also never been fond of the strikers that are needed for the lifeboats. I've heard people say that they can light them on standard strikers, but the manufacturers say otherwise.

If I could find a local source of the Colhgans (sp) water/windproofs, I'd give them a try.