POLICY
In April and October, we have a 3 part Cold Water Policy that is in effect for all rental customers.
- Full immersion gear is mandatory – See below for a detailed explanation of immersion gear
- Previous paddling experience/training/certification is required – See below for further details and what qualifies as experience
- We require that all paddlers choose shoreline destinations/routes to reduce exposure during the shoulder season.
POLICIES EXPLAINED
1. What is Immersion Gear?
Immersion gear refers to clothing designed to keep you warm and safe if you end up in the water. Cold water can quickly lead to dangerous conditions, so dressing appropriately is key.
These suits are the best forms of immersion gear:
1. Wetsuits: Whether a full suit or a separate top and bottom, neoprene traps a thin layer of water between your skin and the material. Your body warms this layer, providing insulation to help maintain core temperature in the cold waters of Deep Cove. For most conditions, a 3-5mm wetsuit is appropriate. In addition to the wetsuit, a splashtop/rain jacket can provide additional warmth and comfort.
2. Drysuits: Unlike wetsuits, drysuits are waterproof and completely seal out water, keeping you dry. They offer maximum protection from cold water by allowing you to wear insulating layers underneath. These are ideal for longer paddling trips or colder conditions.
3. Dry Top + Dry Pants: On top of your base layers, a dry top provides essential protection from wind, rain, and water. This combination helps to block the elements and retains warmth. Base layers when paired with dry tops or dry pants, complete the immersion gear requirement.
4. Booties + Gloves: Essential for keeping your extremities warm, neoprene booties and gloves help protect hands and feet, which are often the first to feel the cold. They offer both insulation and grip, ensuring warmth and dexterity without restricting movement during your kayaking and paddleboarding sessions.
2. Recognizing if you are an experienced or new paddler:
Experience means:
- You’ve had formal instruction from a qualified instructor within the past 3 years.
- You have paddled a sea kayak with a rudder multiple times in the past year.
- You understand your limitations and paddle in conditions appropriate to your skill level.
- You know how to perform both a self rescue and assisted and have practiced them within the last two years.
- You are aware of the ocean’s dangers. Winds, currents and changing conditions.
If you are missing a few of these key points please reach out to us and we would be happy to discuss your options.
Experience does NOT mean:
- You rented a sit-on-top kayak at a resort once.
- You’ve paddled a kayak at a lake last summer.
- You vaguely remember how to re-enter a kayak after capsizing because you watched a video.
- You are a good swimmer so you will be safe.
These essential safety measures ensure that paddlers are protected from the cold water, reducing the risk of hypothermia in case of immersion or unexpected weather changes. This policy will remain in place during our shoulder season operating months and/or until the water temperature reaches over 13 degrees celsius.
FAQ
Why This Change?
The decision to make immersion gear compulsory stems from a commitment to paddler safety. Deep Cove’s waters can be cold year-round, and unpredictable weather conditions or accidents can quickly lead to dangerous situations, especially for those not dressed appropriately. Wearing immersion gear ensures that if you end up in the water, your body will remain warm, giving you time to get back to your board or kayak and reducing the risk of hypothermia.
Where Can You Get Immersion Gear?
Deep Cove Kayak offers free rental wetsuits to ensure everyone is properly equipped. Alternatively, paddlers can purchase their own gear from Coast Outdoors.
Safety First, Comfort Always
While immersion gear may feel unfamiliar at first, it quickly becomes an essential part of your paddling experience. By making immersion gear mandatory, we aim to create a safer environment where everyone can enjoy their time on the water with confidence, no matter the conditions.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss this change with us, please feel free to give us a call at (604) 929-2268.