Re: [Paddlewise] When in Rome do as the

> From: "Matt Broze" <mkayaks_at_oz.net>

> Maybe there should be a law to make you wear your PFD, helmet, and sp*ns*ns
> everytime you kayak ;-)  Actually, I couldn't agree with you more but I do
> hope as an instructor you are setting a good example for your students. I'm
> afraid some of them may decide they want to look like a kayaker who depends
> on skill rather than equipment, before they develop the skill.
> I believe in safety but I also believe in being comfortable so I am not
> going to wear clothing that won't allow me to paddle at an exercise pace
> without overheating unless there is a serious threat to my safety if I
> don't. In otherwords if I'm just a little bit safer but trade away a lot of
> comfort to get there that's not a trade I'm willing to make.

<snip> 

> side, but I think I have that bugaboo licked now. Still paddling solo and
> using "rotary cooling" to cool off in a drysuit cold end up putting the
> drysuit wearer in the water due to a failed roll. The cooler "underdressed
> for the water temperature"  paddler of equal skill who didn't have to
> capsize to cool down might be in less risk here. Lets keep discussing the
> risks and comparing notes but if somebody doesn't make the same choices as
> you try to see their point of view.
> Matt Broze
> http://www.marinerkayaks.com


Hi Matt,

Thanks for a very thoughtful response that represents both points of
view.

I can more readily accept the position "because I have been kayaking
for a very long time and found this works best for me" rather than an
unsubstantiated claim stating skilled kayakers are more at risk of
heat stroke than hypothermia.  

It would be helpful to hear from paddlers the different methods
they use for cooling off or staying cool while wearing a wetsuit or
drysuit which does not put them at risk of capsizing.  Having never been 
hyperthermic or near hyperthermic when wearing a wetsuit, I can't 
answer this one, but would like to know what others do to stay cool. I 
think hydrating before a trip begins and continuing to take in adequate 
fluids would go a long way in preventing hyperthermia or heat exhaustion.

Thanks again for your thoughtful response, Matt.  You've given me 
more to think about (as has Scott and others).

Jackie


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