I just found this list so forgive me if the discussion has been had before, but I am seeking advice on paddling clothing for cooler weather/cooler water (say 50+ degree water, 40+ degree air). What are your experiences? I just noticed this Polartec Thermal Stretch...How does it compare to a wet suit? I live in the San Francisco Bay area and mostly paddle here. I am (of course) looking for the one magic garment that will solve all problems and fit all conditions, so it can't be too warm, but also must protect from cold. What are the pros and cons of my choices? Thanks for any advice! Michael *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
>I just > noticed this Polartec Thermal Stretch...How does it compare to a wet suit? Hi Michael, I own a Polartec farmer john and paddling jacket. They work real well down till about 55 degree water. I can't vouch for any lower as I switched to a dry suit with the water hovering at about 55. They are about the equivalent of 2 - 2.5 mil neoprene. When it first flushes with water, I think the Polartec is MUCH colder than my 3 mil wet suit. The reason I think is that the fuzzy stuff lets in more (thicker layer) water initially. But once that water warms it seems 'almost' as warm as my 3mm wetsuit. If I had it to do over, I think I would get the 'fuzzy rubber' version. This is just like the Polartec, but has a rubber skin on the out side. The reason is the Polartec, once wet and in the wind, does suffer from some evaporative cooling loss. I think the rubber outer shell would help eliminate this. (I think Rapid Style sells this) The big upside is comfort - When dry it is 100% more comfortable than neoprene! I wear my thermal stretch under my dry suit as an inner layer and protection in case of a leak. I recommend the stuff and would have never bought my neoprene if I had found this first. Might want to get others advice on the lower temperature range though. Hope this helps, Woody *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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