On Mon, 09 Feb 2004 13:50:16 GMT, Brian Nystrom
wrote:



Tim wrote:
What do i need? A wetsuit or drysuit? Would like to start getting gear
for spring and next winter kayaking in the northeast usa. Any websites
with info would be great, but would like to hear from those who have
done it, and maybe those who have taken a dunk and lived to tell about
it.

Get a waterproof/breathable (Gore-Tex or similar) dry suit. Waters in
the northeast are far too cold in the winter and spring for wetsuits.
For example, the ocean temp in the Boston area is currently 36 degrees.
In the spring, the water is usually in the 40's until late May/early
June. I've paddled these conditions for 4 winters and have done a lot of
swimming in water in the 40's during training exercises. No wetsuit that
you could paddle in will protect you from such temps. I suggest that you
equip your dry suit with a relief zipper and waterproof booties (latex
or Gore-Tex).

You'll need good gloves. I prefer Nordic Blue dry gloves, but most
people us neoprene gloves.

You'll need a neoprene hood, too. A 3mm hood is about as thick as most
people can use comfortable while paddle, but thicker hoods are good for
rolling practice. O'Neil's Cold Water hood is a good one. It fits better
than most (though it runs a bit small), has an adjustable face seal and
a nice brim. The close fit in the neck minimizes water intrusion.

If you're in the Boston area, check into the North Shore Paddler's
Network at www.nspn.org. It's the largest, most active club in the area,
with many winter paddlers.

Thanks very much Brian for your reply. That's just the info I needed
to get started.

Tim