Paddling & COVID-19: Getting outside and active, even for short periods, is good for your mental and physical health. That said, we’re all in this together, and we must be responsible — avoid crowds, stay close to home, be prepared and be respectful of other people. The team at the Northern Forest Canoe Trail can’t stress this enough: now is not the time to take unnecessary risks while engaging in outdoor activities. Our the healthcare sector is under enormous stress, and we must be responsible.
A note from the author: So many “educational” reads end up really being an opinion piece. So, Danny wanted to be up front: this is another opinion piece. Many paddlers have a system that works for them and they are entitled to their opinion as well. There is no one method that works better than another. This piece will draw from Danny’s lengthy, 30-year experience in the paddle sports industry and as a paddler. So, we feel there is some good stuff in here to make you a more informed paddler on this topic.
Splash wear
It is important to note that splash wear, also known as “paddling jackets” and “paddling pants” have no insulating properties and no way of keeping water out of the garment and away from the body. (FYI: This would be the same for a rain jacket and rain pants.)
So, why do they sell it? Well, splash wear pretty much says it in the name; it’s designed to keep splash or rain off you as a paddler. This would be for warmer days, when being absolutely soaked by the spray from waves or a driving rain would not only be uncomfortable but lower core temps. The closures around the neck, wrists, ankles and waist are designed to be comfortable and also keep cost down. If you were to go for a swim, whatever you are wearing underneath would eventually be completely soaked.
More on cold water paddling:
