Dressing for Cold-weather Boating
Everyone has stood in front of the closet at one time or another and exclaimed, "I don't know what I should wear today!" Usually the worst outcome is a good scolding from the "fashion police." But when preparing for a day of boating, not making the correct choice could be a life-threatening mistake.
Any outdoor activity in cool or colder weather conditions presents a risk of hypothermia. That risk is greater while boating because water robs the body's heat 25 times faster than air of the same temperature.
When preparing to boat, clothing choices go a long way towards keeping the experience safe and pleasant. Each person is subject to hypothermia at a different rate. Recognize your body's thermal capabilities or inadequacies; consider the current air, water, and wind chill temperatures; and dress accordingly. This serves the dual purposes of comfort and safety. Being comfortable adds to any experience.
Fabrics that protect against exposure to cold air and water can be broken into two categories: insulating materials and protective materials.
"Insulating materials" are fabrics that trap the body's heat. Layering several garments is not only more effective at retaining the heat but also more comfortable, as items can be added or removed as needed.
Types of insulating fabrics
A variety of man-made and natural fabrics act as good insulators. Avoid 100 percent cotton garments, as they are most effective at drawing heat away from the body. Start with thin layers of polypropylene close to the skin. Add fabrics that retain heat even when wet such as wool or synthetic fleece.
When boating in any water less than 70 degrees, a neoprene wetsuit should be part of the layer system. Cold water and weather may also require a dry suit, which keeps the body dry with the exception of the head, hands and feet.
Types of protective layers
A good protection layer prevents the elements from cooling the insulating layers.
There are a variety of products available that provide excellent wind and water protection. Parkas, rain suits, paddling gear, and jackets made of nylon, Gore-tex and some of the new microfibers are ideal.
The final layer for any cold-weather water activity should be a life jacket. The immediate risk of falling into the water is drowning after becoming disoriented from the shock of the cold water. In addition to providing vital buoyancy, a life jacket also serves as a good insulator. In fact, several styles of coats are Coast-Guard-approved devices that have built in flotation.
Remember that each boating outing presents a different combination of weather and water conditions. Choosing your attire wisely helps make any outing a pleasantly memorable experience. |