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Now summer is drawing in and autumn is here, many people will be packing away their summer watersport gear and looking forward to the longer days next year. However, for some, they would like to carry on their passion all year round, enjoying the quieter waters and picturesque views. However, to ensure maximum enjoyment whilst keeping your body safe, it’s vital kayak lovers purchase the correct equipment for cooler conditions. 

In this blog, we will take a look at some essential tips kayakers will need to take to stay warm and safe in the colder months. Keep on reading to find out more!

The Importance of Layering

Layering will allow you to enjoy being out on the water whilst staying safe and warm, due to the water temperature becoming the most important reason for dressing up. You need to dress up for the water temperature, not the air temperature. This is even more important if you find yourself in the water for an extended period of time. 

To mitigate the risk, kayakers should invest in a dry suit to help keep the water out, allowing them to stay warm underneath the suit. 

Tip 1: Wear base layers

Wearing base layers under a drysuit or wetsuit will allow you to set the foundation for insulation and moisture management, helping to trap your body heat and keep away any sweat and leaks from your skin. As a result, this keeps you dry and prevents you from becoming cold. Flow Kayaks offer a variety of short and long-sleeve base layers that dry quickly and wick any excess moisture that may arise. 

Tip 2: Wear a mid-layer over the base layer 

After sorting out your base layer, it’s vital that you wear a mid-layer. A mid-layer provides the primary insulation, which will keep you warm for longer periods of time. It’s also a thicker, insulated layer made from fleece and synthetic materials. 

The mid layer should be comfortable and not restrict movement, which is vital whilst kayaking. 

Tip 3: Invest in neoprene boots and gloves 

Investing in neoprene boots and gloves is also vital for protecting extremities, and these are areas a wet and dry suit won’t protect. A base and mid layer won’t protect hands or feet either, so this is a worthwhile investment to ensure the whole body is protected, so full focus can be on kayaking. 

To accompany shoes, socks can be a worthwhile investment to further insulate feet. They can also help reduce the risk of blisters, making kayaking more comfortable. 

Tip 4: Always check the water and weather conditions

As well as the sensible clothing purchases to keep you warm and safe, there are a few extra steps you can take to ensure your kayaking experience in the colder months is a positive one. Colder months (which are highly likely to be in the winter) are going to be more unpredictable, with harsher temperatures and a greater risk of wind and waves.

Checking the water and weather conditions ahead of time will help you pick the calmest and predictable times to go kayaking. 

Overall, we hope this blog has been insightful in learning more about how watersport lovers can still enjoy kayaking in the colder months. Do not hesitate to reach out to Flow Kayaks if you have any questions on kayaking or any other watersport equipment.

Where to next?

• ACTIVE | Kayaking at Astbury Mere Cheshire with Peak Pursuits
• GEAR | Hiking The Welsh 3000 With The Hypershell X Ultra Exoskeleton Review
• GEAR | Active Era 2-in-1 Inflatable SUP with Kayak Conversion – Review
• ACTIVE | Exploring The St Agnes Coast With Koru Kayaking, Trevaunance Cove in Cornwall

The post ACTIVE | Essential Tips for Kayakers in the Colder Months appeared first on Camping Blog Camping with Style | Travel, Outdoors & Glamping Blog.