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How to Dress for Kayaking. September 2, The Basics Some guidelines remain the same, no matter the weather conditions — these are the basics. Safety first Always wear your personal flotation device PFD or lifejacket while on the water. Find a PFD with plenty of shoulder freedom for comfort while paddling. Clothing: Comfortable clothes are fine for recreational summer canoeing on flat water.
Choose fabrics that dry quickly, like synthetic blends, and layer them so that you can add or subtract clothing as the weather changes. A wet suit and splash jacket keep paddlers warm and dry in the winter. Shoes: Shoes get wet and dirty when you launch the canoe or portage around an obstacle. An old pair of sneakers or a pair of river shoes are the best choices.
When it's cold, consider neoprene booties. Whichever you choose, make sure that your shoes lace tightly or strap firmly so they won't slip off and leave you barefoot if you go overboard or get stuck in the mud. There are a few different designs of life jackets that can be ideal to wear kayaking.
A standard Personal Flotation Device PFD can be the most versatile and easy to maintain, as they contain a buoyant foam that will automatically float. There are two types of inflatables; automatic and manual, with the automatic one inflating on contact with water and the manual one requiring a cord to be pulled to inflate it.
These may not always be the best to wear kayaking as they can inflate when you don't need them to. You may be wearing this over dry suits or other clothing, so adjustability can be important.
Life jackets that are designed for paddlers will often have larger openings at the arms and will tend to have less flotation at the shoulders. It can be beneficial to have someone else pull up on the shoulder straps of your life jacket to see if it moves. If it rides up too high and is at the tightest fit, then you may need a smaller size. The back strap and other straps should also prevent movement. Zippered pockets can be useful for storing smaller items that you want to keep with you at all times, such as your sun protection.
Sometimes this will come at an extra cost compared to basic PFDs. The next time you head out on the water you should have a better idea of what to wear kayaking to keep you comfortable. Try to look for breathable fabrics that are lightweight to allow you to move and paddle comfortably, and keep in mind the conditions!
You don't always need special clothing, just good clothing choices and a little research. Now you know the general guidelines for how to stay safer and drier in your canoe or kayak , why not share this with your fellow paddlers so they can learn how to dress for kayaking? And if you have any comments or questions, just let us know. Get kayak updates, guides, tips, gear reviews and offers sent straight to your inbox! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
I really like how you talk about what to properly wear and how to gear up for a canoeing trip. That is something that I have been preparing to do for a while now. It would be great if I could find some awesome whitewater rapids or a lake nearby that works well for canoes so that my wife and I can rent a canoe and take it out this summer.
Travelling to the seashore you need to have special shoes for kayaking not to hurt your feet. Use the privileges of living in the 21st century and buy online here and you will save your time and forces!
I have had a few brands like Teva and Keen. Not cheap sandals but all give me the same result. The layers underneath may change, but you should always have your life jacket on — no exceptions — wear a life jacket at all times!. Helmet — A hat protects you from the elements, but a helmet protects your brain. Gloves — Paddling gloves are an excellent accessory that every kayaker should have on hand — pun intended — as they protect against cuts, blisters, and frostbite.
Plus, they allow for a better grip on the paddle. Not only does it keep water out but traps warm air in, as well. Kayaking At Night Requires Additional Gear Besides the drop in temperature, kayaking at night is a different kayaking adventure and experience. Night kayaking mean you also have to account for the lack of visibility in low-light conditions and pack:.
Sound-producing devices for reduced visibility conditions, like a dual-tone whistle or an air horn. Nothing prevents you from doing so — and it sure beats wearing the wrong kind of shoes.
If circumstances conspire against you, you might even flip your kayak over, too. Neoprene paddling booties ensure that water stays out and warmth stays in, making them perfect for kayaking in colder weather, especially when paired with thick socks for added insulation.
As for warmer weather, opt for fast-drying water shoes or sandals with chunky rubber soles and back straps. I have one word for you — chaffing. A bathing suit seems like a good idea, but wait until you get on the water and your bare skin starts rubbing against the PFD with every paddle stroke.
Also, wet sneakers tend to smell — bad. Moreover, you want something breathable, quick-drying, comfortable to move in, and durable.
Before setting off, always check the weather and water temperatures.
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