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Dragon Boat Canada


IDBF


Canoe Kayak Canada

208 Guests, 0 Users

[mptsang]

Hey everyone,

My first year doing OC1 and so far its going awesome. I've only been doing it this summer so not really sure how to go about it as its getting a bit colder. What do people wear?

I'm also told that I should get some 360 lights for my PFD, anyone know where I can get some of those?

Thanks!

[NFW]

layers is key, however winter gear depends alot on preferences.

I personally wear a thick underarmour compression long sleeve (cold gear) and and a long sleeve underarmour dri-fit long sleeve on top. Add that and a PFD, it's warm once you get going.
On a really COLD/Rainy day, a wind breaker on top. usually only 1 out of 10 times paddling in winter, I'll wear the jacket, as it gets hot fast.

as for gloves, some ppl wear sweat wicking gloves and dishwashing gloves to waterproof it. I wear the normal 2.5 mm neoprene gloves from mec, and if it gets REAL cold, I'll double up with another thicker 3mm neoprene gloves lol

I have compression tights from helly hansen that's really warm when I pair it up with just any track pants. Neoprene socks from mec is also recommended, and if it gets REAL cold, I wear the neoprene boots over it and its warm again haha

lights can be bought from mec, the fcrcc office might still have some leftover 360 lights from last year for 25 bucks i believe.

best advice for winter (night) paddling is go with a friend. even the strongest swimmer will take a some time to un-huli an oc after withstanding the onslaught of cold freezing water to the body.

[LittleSchrodinger]

To add on what NFW said, if you're serious about winter training and exerting yourself heavily on the alma side, consider going for a neoprene suit. Even with a buddy with you and a bunch of layers, a huli still can be catastrophic if the water is cold enough. While I find that the likes of Helly Hansen layers along with a windbreaker is enough to insulate you in the air, it's an entirely different story when you get submerged. Consider your paddling abilities over winter, measure the risks, and dress for the worst case. Better safe than sorry as cases of hypothermia are very serious.

[Bolero]

Imagine that - paddling in winter!!  Amazing!  Not something we can do back in Alberta!

[brainiac]

Practice recovering from a huli while the temperature is still moderate.