[Paddlewise] Advice needed - dress sense, wellington boots and small cockpits

G'Day,

November will see me paddling near (but not too near) a bunch of glaciers 
and icebergs in Tierra del Fuego, in a small cockpit kayak, ie one that you 
can't get into backside first. (The boat is a Pittarak - an Aussie design to 
which I'm becoming almost as attached as the Klepper).

Although I've no intention of accidentally tipping into such waters, advice 
on appropriate clothing in case this should happen would be appreciated, as 
well as advice on coping with wellington boots when getting in and out of 
small cockpit kayaks.

I'm told that it may be necessary to wear wellington boots to cope with the 
cold water. This sounds like it needs practice for one who in the soft 
luxury of the balmy south seas just wears neoprene boots.

I've also noticed, when being trashed in the surf or learning to roll, that 
a soaking wet Polartec vest and jumper with a Cag as the outer garment to 
protect against wind, seem to be very much warmer than a 3/4 wetsuit. But 
this is in the relatively warm waters of Australia. Can anyone tell me if 
wet clothing in cold waters can be adequate when worn with wind protection? 
Or is it necessary to always ensure that clothes are dry by wearing a wet 
suit or dry suit?

All the best, PeterO
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