RE: [Paddlewise] Hydration systems

I use a 2 liter camelback.  At one time I put it on my back while paddling,
I found that caused cramping in my arms, so I switched to putting the
camelback on the front deck with the hose cliped to my PFD.  For long term
paddling in hot weather, the bag goes under the deck with the hose coming
out the sprayskirt tunnel.

In the summer, I fill my PFD with water and ice, no food for the bugs. In
winter I put in hot water, again no additives.  I bought one of the drying
frames for the liner after I had some growth even with just water in the
bag.

I prefer the camelback type system because I find I drink lots more water
this way and avoid dehydration and related side effects.

Having to pee, even in the winter beats the alternative.


Dana Dickson
The opinions are mine and worth what you paid for them. 

-----Original Message-----
From: rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com
Subject: Re: [Paddlewise] Use of "Hydration Systems"?

Interesting to see all this stuff about the hydration systems.

I prefer to stop every half hour or so to take a break and pull out a
nalgene bottle or some Gatorade.  I think the half a minute breather is
as important as the hydration.

It amazes me how little people around me carry in the way of water.  In
summer paddles of just a few hours duration I carry about 3 quarts or a
gallon.  In moderate temperatures never less than 2 quarts for a two
hour paddle.  I see people with just one quart under just about all
circumstances.  Moreover, I know individuals who refuse to drink in cold
weather because of the need to pee and the awkwardness of cold water
gear.
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