So – you know what they say…there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad preparation?? We find that plenty of people either cancel their kayaking reservation or don’t want to paddle on days when the weather is anything other than sunny skies, but they are just MISSING OUT! Paddling a kayak in the rain can be a wonderful experience, as long as you are wearing the right gear and are prepared – this post will tell you everything you need to know so you can enjoy kayaking in any weather.
Barring any capsize situations, your kayak is like a cocoon, and the best way you can stay dry is to use a well fitting spray skirt. A nylon skirt ($40-$80) will keep the rain and spray off, and a neoprene skirt ($135-$145) will insulate pretty well too. A skirt with a Goretex tunnel is the ultimate ($175) waterproof and breathable as well as keeping you warm they are worth the extra cost. The skirts we have at Deep Cove Kayak are sized specifically for the boats, so make sure you have the right size by asking the staff, and that it is pulled up nice and high around your waist and it will work like a dream.
Your Clothes…
For next to skin and layering, merino wool is your best friend, as it drys quick and wicks moisture as well as insulates even when it is wet ($20-$120). Synthetics are second best, as they still insulate when wet but don’t breathe very well. DON’T WEAR COTTON! Once wet, it doesn’t dry quickly at all and that damp, cold, moist feeling is your enemy.
For your outer layers, a rain coat will do the job, but far better is a specific paddling jacket ($275). One of the huge benefits of a paddling jacket is the wrist gaskets – they stop water from dripping down your sleeves, keeping you drier and more importantly warmer. They may also have a tube which your spray skirt will wrap around, again helping maintain core warmth.
Your Extras…
Pogies are fantastic – nylon or neoprene flaps that fit around your paddle and work like gloves, but allow you to keep a firm hold on your paddle ($20-$50). A simple thing like a sponge can be super helpful for getting your seat dry before you get in, and tucks away easily ($3). Hot chocolate or tea in a thermos flask will do wonders for warming the cockles.
Your Big Investment…
If you kayak a lot in conditions, or really want to extend your paddling season there really isn’t anything better than a dry suit ($800-$1200). If you paddle a stand up paddleboard where you don’t have a cockpit a dry suit is an awesome way to get you out paddling no matter the weather.
There are lots of options – lightweight, back entry, full expedition with hood or one that comes apart at the middle to create a separate dry top. The gaskets keep you dry even if you capsize and as long as it is maintained properly, will last for years.
Your One Stop Store…
Happily, we have all of the above at Deep Cove Outdoors! Come to 352 Lynn Avenue to check out our range and our experts can answer any queries.
[Top image courtesy of the wonderful Rowan Gloag]