Axe Vale Canoe Club

You need to assume that you will get wet, so even in summer you can get cold if there is a wind blowing - so you need to be warm and wind proof. Some say ‘dress for the water temperature’ rather than the air temperature. Working from inside to outside:

• Thermal layer: options to suit the conditions are thermal trousers/top (two layers in winter), rash vest/shorts, wetsuit.
   
• Windproof & waterproof layer: in winter you really need a dry cag/trousers or dry suit. In summer, a semi-dry cag will suffice on warm days but generally even in summer a dry cag is useful if intend getting very wet.
   
• Footwear: wetsuit boots or wet shoes seem the best option here (much better than trainers).
   
• Gloves (optional)
   
• Helmet: a kayak helmet is essential for most trips and club sessions for kayaking. On open canoe trips helmets are less necessary but a hat of some form is essential to keep the sun at bay.
   
• Buoyancy Aid: again essential for all trips and sessions.

Always ensure you have an extra piece of warm clothing with you on trips and a dry set of clothes to change into at the end of the trip or session.