Stay warm kayaking?

Question

I am hoping to hear from someone who whitewater kayaks. My question is what clothing is appropriate to stay warm in the spring when the water is still very cold? I went out to practice my roll (one way roll, me rolling over and wet exiting) the other day in a lake and the water was freezing. I am new to kayaking and need clothing that allows me to wet exit easily.

Thanks

Answer 1

If you can afford it buy a dry suit and wear warm clothes under it but if you can't afford a decent dry suit buy a wet suit. If you wear a wet suit wear a cag too. A cag helps to keep you warm and it goes on top of your wetsuit. I've found if you and everyone else in your group wear different coloured cags you can stop the easily if your eye sight isn't too good. Wearing layers is a must in kayaking but keep them thin so you can move. If you still aren't completely sure talk to someone at the shop when you get your kit. they'll know what works best and you can try in on as well.

Answer 2

Invest in a dry suit, they make them much more comfortable, lightweight and water proof.  They can be pricey, you could check out on ebay.  Don't forget your helmet, in white water you need a helmet.  Go to MEC and see what they got there, their staff is pretty knowledgeable or any specialty kayaking store.  

I am fairly new to Kayaking too, and loving it.  Read, Read, Read...I am getting alot of info on websites, magazines and books.

Heres some good websites:

http://www.kayakonline.com/

http://www.paddling.net/

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_listi...

Enjoy your kayaking and be safe!

Answer 3

If you're paddling glacial run off, you'll want serious gear.  There are couple of ways to go, there are wet suits, dry suits, and lots of options in between.   For the best option for you, it'd be best if you can find a paddling club near you, and take direction from some of the others in the club.  Nothing worse than doing a wet exit and getting surprised by water that feels much colder to your head than it did to your fingers!    It's dangerous, and you need to be careful.

Here's a great article on dressing for cold water:

http://www.rutabaga.com/page.asp?pgid=14...

http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product_list....

http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product_list....

http://www.paddling.net/guidelines/showA...