Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need special clothes?
Specialist water sports clothing is ideal but expensive. If you can
borrow some, eg a long-john wetsuit, this is ideal. Alternatively, you could
adapt some everyday clothing for your canoeing sessions. Wool and synthetic
clothes are good because they keep you warm when they are wet.
Tracksuit bottoms, a thin woolly jumper, some thermal underwear and an
old pair of trainers/canvas shoes can be found in most homes. Many thin
layers are better than one thick layer.
The other recommended item is something to keep off the wind. A cagoule
or nylon waterproof top is ideal and make a great difference. Waterproof
trousers also help a lot to keep off the cold.
Do not bring cotton clothing to wear on the water. For example, cotton
tee shirts, denims or jeans. Wet cotton draws the heat from your body
alarmingly, causing a severe loss of body temperature. You are likely to
feel very cold and increase the risk of hypothermia.
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