In a message dated 10/22/2002 7:19:24 AM Eastern Daylight Time, RichCasale_at_comcast.net writes: > Do you think this will be enough gear to keep me warm and safe in 50 degree > weather? > Rich --- not sure what "50 degree weather" is but 50 degree air is not 50 degree water. Big difference in terms of heat loss, gasp reflex, etc. Accept the fact that winter will significantly curtail paddling activity, and that even "safe" boats and backwater trips carry increased risk. Consider extending your paddling season rather than planning to be 24/7 ice water paddle-capable the first year. You can lengthen your season with neoprene, but shells and heavy fleece won't help you much at all if you're swimming. It's the captured layer of water between your skin and the neoprene, plus some insulation provided by the neoprene itself, that will help keep you reasonably functional while you **or your paddling buddy** help get you back in the boat. Clothing is not "the answer" for winter --- or even fall --- paddling. It is only part of the answer. Physical conditioning, becoming aware of the dangers of extended season paddling, and experience with cold water, especially in controlled, safe conditions, are some of the key answers. Dress for the water, not the air or "the weather", and swim your gear in controlled, safe conditions. Add a neoprene or "fuzzy rubber" head and neck covering as a primary, "gotta wear" item --- one of the most important pieces of in-water survival clothing you can own, especially when you consider the proportion of heat that is sucked out of your body through the head and the back of the neck. Winter survival clothing simply extends the time you can remain functional in cold water. (*In*, not *on* cold water.) Drysuits extend that time a lot further than wet suits do, but none of them will provide comfort --- just survivability. And then only when they're worn correctly --- with the proper insulation, zippers closed, gloves and headgear worn, you have a chance of surviving the loss of your boat --- but learn and appreciate the dangers, manage the risk the best way possible, paddle with a buddy, and wear the right stuff that you know --- by testing it --- will give you the best coverage. Paddle for the conditions. The water conditions. Joq *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Tue Oct 22 2002 - 06:00:19 PDT
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