What Do You Wear When Kayaking in the Winter?

Many people wonder what they should wear when kayaking during the winter. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler, the options are many. Below is a brief list of the most common options.

Drysuits

A drysuit is a water proof shell that is worn by those who want to stay warm and dry. These suits are especially helpful on a cold day on the water. They provide excellent protection against splashes and abrasions, and allow you to add extra layers underneath for additional warmth.

If you are a kayaker, a drysuit can help you make your trips more enjoyable. Drysuits are made of waterproof material and feature rubber or latex seals to keep the water out.

For example, the Kokatat Hydros 3.0 membrane is adjustable, allowing you to wick sweat away from your body, keeping you warmer. It also has an adjustable neck gasket that is comfortable to wear.

Drysuits can be quite expensive. However, they are necessary for winter kayaking. You should measure your chest before purchasing a wetsuit. This will ensure that you buy the proper size.

In addition to keeping you warm, a drysuit can also prevent your skin from being exposed to bacteria. Lakes can be a home to algae, which can deteriorate the fabric and degrade the seams.

Paddling Pants

There are several different types of paddling pants to choose from. However, you must first determine what your needs are. It is also important to consider the climate where you will be paddling. For example, if you are going to be kayaking in the winter, you will need clothing to keep your lower legs warm.

You can also look for a pair of waterproof paddling pants to wear on the water. If you plan to paddle in colder conditions, you will also want to find a pair of thermal socks to add warmth.

Another good choice is a pair of neoprene boots. These boots protect your feet, toes and the soles of your shoes. They are also comfortable. A pair of neoprene socks can be worn under the boots to keep your toes warm.

Paddling jackets have similar features. Gaskets at the wrists and neck help keep the water out. Some are insulated, but they do not offer as much protection as a wetsuit.

Neoprene Booties

Neoprene booties are designed to keep your feet warm and dry while paddling. You can wear them year round, but they are particularly useful for kayaking in cold water.

The best neoprene boots will have a waterproof and puncture-resistant sole. They will also have a layer of titanium in the lining for extra insulation. These boots will keep you comfortable even when you're hopping in and out of your kayak. However, you should avoid using neoprene shoes that don't fit properly. Otherwise, you can experience blisters and foot cramping.

Neoprene boots come in different thicknesses. Knee-high wetsuit boots are the thickest and provide the most protection. But, they can restrict your movement if your kayak capsizes. If you're looking for a more comfortable, lightweight pair of neoprene boots, consider a low-cut design.

Boots are the most versatile type of neoprene footwear. They offer excellent traction and keep your feet dry. This makes them the perfect choice for diverse water conditions.

Spray Skirts

When kayaking in the winter, it's important to keep warm and dry. A spray skirt can do that. Its main purpose is to keep water from entering your kayak's cockpit. However, it can also be useful in light rain and waves.

Some spray skirts feature pockets to hold things like camera lenses or maps. These are great places to store a few essentials and to make it easier to get to them.

You can buy spray skirts in different materials. Nylon is the most common, but neoprene is also a good choice. Neoprene is a material that's waterproof and breathable. This means that it won't trap heat in your body. The material is more durable than nylon, but it's also more expensive.

The material your spray skirt is made of will affect how comfortable it is. If you spend a lot of time in the water, neoprene may be the right choice for you. But if you're more budget conscious, nylon is a better option.