DRESS FOR SUCCESS WHEN YOU KAYAK

Paddlers define a great day on the water many ways. From drifting down a river, to touring the shores of large lakes, to casting for trophy fish. However, we all agree that being comfortable and safe on the water is key to a better outing. The first step to feeling great and knowing you’ll be protected from the elements is wearing proper clothing.   Bill & Paul’s has created this guide to help you dress properly for your time on the water.

WHAT TYPE OF PADDLER ARE YOU?

To begin, decide whether you’re a WET or DRY paddler. There will be plenty who fall into either category depending on the day, but in general:

WET PADDLERS

   1)     Are not afraid of tipping over in their kayak or getting wet while out paddling.

   2)     They tend to use longer, skinnier boats (day touring or touring kayaks) with smaller cockpits.

   3)     They lean and edge their kayak to make turning and paddling into the wind and waves easier. Rougher water and windy conditions don’t ruin their day.

   4)     Have likely taken classes on paddling skills and rescues to aid them as they explore farther away from home and on bigger bodies of water.

DRY PADDLERS

   1)     Have no desire to get wet and are usually uncomfortable with any kind of tipping.

   2)     Paddle shorter, wider boats (recreational or sit-on-top kayaks). Stability and easy entry are key to happiness.

   3)     Generally avoid wind and waves. Warm, sunny summer days are favored by the dry paddler, although early and late season outings in good weather conditions are appealing to this group as well.

WHAT SEASON YOU PADDLE MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Water and air temperatures affect our comfort and present differing safety issues throughout the year. Always be aware what’s going on around and under you!  This guide is for paddling in the upper Mid-West.

WINTER (Dry Paddlers should avoid paddling in the winter)

   1)     Cold Air- With temps varying from below zero to the upper 30s it’s always cold. Layering with technical dry wear is the key to staying comfortable and safe.

   2)     Cold Water-Most lakes are frozen and most rivers are snow and ice lined. Immersion in the winter can be fatal without the correct protective layers on body, head, hands and feet.

 SPRING

   1)     Extreme Air Temp Swings-Spring days may see temps start in the 30’s and rise into the 50’s. Study the weather forecast and plan for the coldest temps. Bring extra clothing in dry bags for those sudden temp swings.

   2)     Cold Water- The sun might be shining but the water has yet to warm up. In water 50 degrees or colder, you have less than 1 hour until hypothermia overtakes the average swimmer. Dress to protect yourself from immersion and ALWAYS wear your PFD!

SUMMER

   1)     Warm Air with Variable Humidity-The warm season! Just don’t be lulled by the warmth of mid-day. Without the humidity, air gets chilly before and after the sun is in the sky. Have a long sleeve layer and wind shell handy for those morning and evening paddles. During the heat of the day, sun protection and staying cool are of high importance.

   2)     Warm Water-Inland lake and rivers are mostly in the high 60s and warmer. There’s little risk of hypothermia in these situations. However, the Great Lakes and some rivers stay cold year-round and require a layer of protection should you find yourself swimming unexpectedly.

FALL

   1)     Extreme Air Temp Swings-Much like spring, days in the 80’s and nights in the 40’s are possible throughout the fall. Carry those extra layers and be ready for a chill when the sun disappears.

   2)     Warm Water-The lakes and rivers carry their summer heat well into fall, making immersion less dangerous. Just remember that paddling while wet in chilly air can cause hypothermia as much as being in the water so plan accordingly.

PRACTICAL TIPS

   1)     Look at the weather forecast-With today’s apps and forecasts, there’s no excuse for not knowing the air and water temps, as well as the wind and severe weather forecasts that may impact your time on the water. “When in doubt, don’t go out”

   2)     Cotton Kills! Even in the hottest days of summer, Cotton T-Shirts and shorts make lousy paddling pieces. Cotton is a rough fiber (think chafing) that provides no insulation especially when wet. Finally, it takes forever to dry so it will stay heavy and cold until removed.

   3)     You don’t need to spend a lot to start. Look around your drawers and closets. Chances are if you golf, bike, hike, or pursue other outdoor activities, you probably own synthetic or wool clothing that is more that appropriate as you start your paddling adventures.

   4)     Kayak Clothing does works better. If you find yourself paddling a lot, invest in true paddlesport clothing. It’s been built and engineered to perform specifically for activity of paddling. You’ll have less chafing, bunching, and remain dryer from the act of paddling.

   5)     Take a Paddling Class. Improving your knowledge, gaining new skills, and understanding the limitations of you and your gear will make you a happier and safer paddler. Check our Calendar of Events for options