Re: [Paddlewise] Cold Hands

Cold hands

Mike, being very thin I have always had cold hand problems especially since
I try to paddle year round up here in Alaska. I approach the problem in
several ways.

First I over dress putting on an extra layer on my torso to build up and
hold heat at my body core. If the body's core starts to get too cold the
circulation system begins to rob warm blood from the extremetes (hands, feet
ears) to protect the vital interior organs. Also I keep my head warm with a
knit cap and the hood of my anorak.

Second, I use a wooden paddle. the wood retains warmth from my hands whereas
fiberglass always seems to suck the warmth away.

Third, I take a variety of gloves. A pair thin polypro for when the
conditions are not too bad and for fiddling with gear. (touching cold gear
with bare hands is to be avoided) A set of pogies, awkward yes but useful on
windy days when the wind tries to drive the heat out of my hands. Lastly a
set of neopreme wet suit gloves for when thing get their worst.

Also it is very important to make sure that tight fitting wrist gaskets, or
gloves do not restrict your circulation. I had an old pair of neopreme
gloves that made my thumbs freeze because of this. I eventually replaced
them and solved the problem.

Keep well hydrated. Hydration effects blood flow.
Keep eating allowing the calories to build up heat in your body. (if a wood
stove runs out of wood the fire goes out)

Push come to shove take along some chemical heat packs to re warm your
hands.

Hope this helps
Bob
In balmy Alaska (temps have been above normal all winter)


***************************************************************************
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/
***************************************************************************