What every whitewater kayaker needs to know. Whitewater kayaking and riding the rapids is a thrill, and the more you know about dressing for the conditions the more you can make the most of the adventure.
In warm weather shorts, hats and sunscreen works well. Throw in a clean pair of socks, and a long sleeve shirt and pants. Layering is easy and as the weather changes comfort level can be accomplished quickly.
Make sure that you dress for the water temperature, even though you will be seated on your kayak, out of the water, most of the time. Warm air temperatures but you just may end up in the water and you need to be prepared for that option. In cold weather and cold water it is important to have proper protection to guard against the elements. Protection from the cold is not just about comfort but also, about personal safety. Most paddling fatalities are not from drowning but from hypothermia. Hypothermia is the lowering of the body’s temperature to a dangerous level. Water draws heat from the body significantly faster than air does A good set of pogies (a type of mitten) that is more like a bag crossed with a palmless mitten that allows for you to grip the paddle but not allow the spray and cold wind to hit your hands.
Layering is even more important in winter. Wicking next to the skin, followed by insulating heavier sweaters and fleece clothes and then a waterproof layer on the outside. Cotton should never be worn as it holds water and will not provide any warmth once it is moist from either sweat or spray from the water.
A quality dry suit made from GORE-TEX will allow you to wear whatever you need for insulation and yet give you flexibility to stay dry at all times. Some people like wet suits however when the weather is close to freezing the wet suit is not enough to keep the body warm.
For the feet get a good wet suit pair of “booties” that give good traction in the water and they will also keep the feet warm. Wet suit booties trap a think layer of water against the skin and in conjunction with body heat will keep your feet comfortable.
Finally, a hat, hoods or skull caps made from neoprene that can be worn under the helmet will keep your head warm in cold wet weather.
Whitewater kayaking is a great adventure and it will also be a safe adventure if properly fitted both equipment and clothing.
By: Marjorie Bill
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