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As summer begins to draw to an end it is natural to start thinking about what equipment you may require to continue enjoying time on the water as the days get shorter and cooler. Autumn brings some beautiful paddling conditions. From quieter, more peaceful days on the lake to enjoying some whitewater paddling as the rivers finally start to fill back up. Whatever your preference, there are options for everyone to get out and about. Although there will be some warmer days, it is easy to get caught out by the odd rain shower or colder spell. This blog will highlight key items to keep you comfortable in changeable conditions.
A good quality cag is possibly one of the most useful additions to your kit bag. The option to put it on in the event of a rain shower, or windy spell, can make all the difference on the outcome of your trip. If you’re flat water paddling, a cag with Velcro tabs, such as the Palm Vector, would be suitable as it is lightweight, easy to get on and off and capable of keeping the wind and rain off. For whitewater kayaking, autumn may see a transition from a short sleeve cag to a full length one, such as the NRS Flux or Palm Surge. Whitewater cags, such as the Flux and the Surge, have latex neck and wrist seals meaning they’re completely water tight, an obvious benefit for this type of paddling.
In addition to this, it may be time to swap the trusted pair of board shorts for something that’s going to keep you warmer on your bottom half. Dry trousers are a great option for this time of year. The option to wear them some days, and go without them on others, is a luxury when the weather is unsettled. Dry trousers remain popular due to the ‘mix n match’ approach they allow for, being able to combine them with a dry cag for colder days, or simply a thermal top such as the Peak Thermal Rashy when it’s warmer. There are a few things to consider when purchasing dry trousers. Firstly, with or without braces? The obvious benefit of braces, such as the Peak Storm Pant, is that they will stop the trouser from riding down, which eliminates any potential leaks or damp patches. Some dry trousers, such as the NRS Freefall, come without braces which also have their pros which include; a slightly less restrictive feel and the ability to drop them down quicker for a mid-session toilet brake…
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A decent pair of shoes, or boots, can make a big difference to your paddling sessions. As the rain arrives, the sides of rivers, lakes and lochs can become very slippery. Having footwear with plenty of grip is essential for your safety, but also in avoiding the embarrassing slip and slide we’ve all experienced at some point! What Many ‘booty’ style shoes lack in grip, they make up for in warmth. For example, the O’Neill Epic 5mm Round Toe is a great option if the put-in and get-out for your trips are nice and straight forward, or you’re spending a lot of time paddling in the sea. For tougher terrain, a boot such as the all new La Sportiva Canyon or the classic Palm Gradient may be more appropriate. Naturally not as warm, this style of footwear can be transformed into a toasty boot with the addition of a neoprene sock such, as the Palm Index.
The correct clothing and equipment can completely change your views on paddling. Transforming them from a strict summer activity to the realisation waterways can be explored and enjoyed all year round. As autumn slowly turns to winter there is a plethora of clothing and equipment which starts to come into its own, including accessories, under layers and of course Drysuits . But for now, let’s try and hold on to some warmer weather and lighter evenings to enjoy our time on the water!
