What Gear would you wear to go sea kayaking in Lake Superior?

Question

I am planning on kayaking around the pictured rocks in the beginning of August, but I have no idea of what to wear since it will probably be chilly. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

Check out the Inland Sea Kayakers (www.inlandseakayakers.org/) web site.  They are a kayak club out of Minneapolis that is oriented to kayaking on Superior.  

If you are close enough to go to their clinic on Sunday, May 4.

"As If" Drill

This extended day trip focuses on learning the skills folks need to improve in preparation of the upcoming paddling season. This paddle is an "As if drill" -- as if you were going on an extended day trip on Lake Superior. Topics to be covered are gear, clothing, navigating.

The club has regular paddles on Lake Calhoun where people can talk with those who do Superior and learn the needed skills.

Superior kills people who aren't prepared.

A friend did a weekend on Superior last summer.  She went on a trip through Living Adventures outfitters (www.livingadventure.com/).  They supply all the necessary gear and make sure that everyone can rescue themselves.

She loved the trip among the Apostle islands and said that the outfitters were great.

Answer 2

I would say with a water temp that low, you may consider a dry suit (they are expensive but it's life verses death in some cases.) Also check out a video on self rescues that way if you are tipped you can get back in without struggle. Getting back in is harder than it appears, while many kayakers think under 5 minuets is a realistic goal for getting back in, it could be 28-30+ minuets if you aren't familar with entering on open water. Make sure you have packed paddle floats also.

If you cannot afford the dry suit, wear a wetsuit ($30 at Sam's Club or $60-$90ish in a chain sporting goods store. Furthermore, make sure you have an appropriate lifejacket. Even though it seems like a given, you may need it more than you know.

Also, consider layering for warmth. (especially if you don't have a splash guard.

PS-We were just out on Lake Erie on Sat.

:)   Have a great trip!