How to Dress for Kayaking

The biggest danger for kayakers is hypothermia, earlier than many other dangers we may encounter. When the water is cold, if we are submerged, we lose body heat very quickly because of the high thermal conductivity of this element.

We have already discussed here whether or not to wear paddle or swim when we are out on the water in a boat. Although, even if we don't swim, it is normal to get wet from the waist up. 

The better our skin is insulated from water and moisture, the further heat loss from our bodies will be reduced, making clothing a safety staple for those of us who are in a marine environment in the waves.

If the water is cold, it is recommended to avoid all contact with the skin, so in winter, in cold areas, all year round, we wear waterproof clothes. Current technical fabrics also allow perspiration, so they prevent water from entering and allow the water vapor produced by perspiration to escape. They are membranes that are completely channeled from the inside to the outside. This is the best compromise to keep us dry and warm during our activities in harsh environments . This type of clothing is much more comfortable and effective than wet clothing.

When clothing completely isolates us from water, even if we are in direct contact with it, it is called "dry" equipment. "Wet" clothes are made of neoprene, and "wet" clothes are breathable fabrics, Lycra, etc.

For the question of what is better one or two pieces? 
The answer is the same as always ...... it depends ...... but there are some clues so as not to make a mistake in choosing.
A jumpsuit is completely waterproof, even if you regularly use equipment that is submerged in water, i.e. swimming under a kayak. In these conditions, there is no doubt that the disadvantage of a one-piece suit, is that the garment lacks versatility, because it is either all or nothing. We can only play with what we wear underneath, the first layer or the first/second layer, depending on whether it's less cold or more cold. It's also not the best clothing for shoveling snow.

If we swim for a while, the waterproof jacket/trouser suit isn't completely waterproof because even if it has a double waist, etc., it will eventually get water in. It has the advantage that they are two separate garments that can be combined (the jacket can be worn with other pants (like wet neoprene, if it's not too cold), and the suit is also better for paddling. If you've also mastered the Eskimo roll and you don't plan on landing on rocks, forcing you to swim with a rock landing maneuver, these two pieces are your thing.

Whether it's one option or the other, all we have to do is be prepared for the winter down time and enjoy...

Be well prepared, in addition to the necessary kayak equipment, safety is very important, good communication allows you to contact your companions in time, there is often no signal at sea, waterproof walkie talkie for kayaking is a very good choice