How to Dress for Cool Weather Sea Kayaking
Staying warm and dry when sea kayaking is extremely important in cold weather conditions. You will find that staying cool is also a challenge after a few minutes of paddling in warm clothing. Here are a few hints to help keep a balanced temperature.
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Things You'll Need
- Drysuits
- Paddle jacket
- Polypro top
- Fleece Hat
- Socks
- Neoprene Gloves
- Neoprene gloves
Instructions
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Try using a dry suit if you plan to be in cold waters where a chance of immersion is possible. When you are first learning to sea kayak, getting wet is inevitable on occasion.
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Wear minimal clothing under a drysuit, as they are not breathable and can become rather clammy. A thin layer of polypropylene long underwear works well in brisk condiitons.
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Use a wet suit when the more expensive dry suits are not available to you. A "Farmer John" style suit (long legs and sleeveless top) works best for kayaking as the arms and shoulders are free to move.
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Top off the wet suit with a paddle jacket which will keep the water off your torso and dry quickly in the event of a wet exit capsize.
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Put on a thin polypro top under your wetsuit if the conditions will be on the cold side.
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Keep your head warm by placing a wool or fleece hat under your helmet. If you get hot while paddling, you can easily remove your hat to regulate temperature - even to the rest of your body.
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Wear some sort of socks to keep your feet warm. A combination of socks and sandles, or a sturdy neoprene booty will work well.
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Find some neoprene gloves if your hands get cold easily. There are a variety of styles that will suit many conditions.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember that the goal of dressing for cool conditions is to be comfortable yet safe at the same time. The clothing that you are to wear should not make you too hot, but it must keep you warm in the event that you in up swimming in frigid waters.
Sea kayaking can be a very fun and relaxing sport. However, as with any sport dealing with open water, it has many inherent dangers. When learning how to sea kayak, it is a good idea to seek out professional instruction.
