Dressed for Immersion, Paddling in Heat: A Sea Kayaker’s Dilemma.

Dressed for Immersion, Paddling in Heat: A Sea Kayaker’s Dilemma.

Sea kayakers are often told to dress for the water temperature rather than the air temperature. This advice is correct, but it can raise a valid concern: overheating when the air temperature is hot. Wearing cold-water protection on a warm, sunny day can feel uncomfortable and, if managed poorly, can lead to heat stress. The key is not choosing one risk over the other but understanding how to manage both at the same time.

If a kayaker capsizes in cold water, cold shock and rapid loss of muscle function can occur quickly. These effects reduce the ability to self-rescue and make even simple tasks difficult. Air temperature, by contrast, affects comfort and performance, but usually not survival. For this reason, immersion protection remains essential whenever the water is cold, regardless of how warm it feels on shore.

Overheating, however, is a real concern and should not be dismissed. Paddling is physical work, and wearing protective clothing reduces the body’s ability to release heat. Combined with sun exposure and high humidity, this can lead to dehydration, fatigue, dizziness, and poor decision-making. These symptoms can increase the risk of accidents, especially on longer trips or in challenging conditions.

The solution is not to remove cold-water protection, but to manage heat actively through appropriate clothing. An insulating layer should always be worn, with its thickness adapted to water temperature and conditions. Breathable base layers help move moisture away from the skin, supporting comfort and heat regulation.

Ventilation is another important tool. Dry suits with relief or chest zippers can be opened during breaks on shore. Reducing paddling intensity and maintaining a steady, moderate pace also helps prevent overheating. Short rest stops near shore provide opportunities to cool down without increasing risk.

External cooling methods are effective and safe. Splashing water on the arms, neck, and head can lower body temperature quickly. Wearing a hat or buff that can be soaked in water provides ongoing cooling. These techniques work even when the water itself is cold. Hydration plays a critical role in heat management. Dehydration worsens the effects of heat and increases fatigue, so kayakers should drink regularly on hot days. Small, frequent snacks help maintain energy levels and support temperature regulation.

Trip planning is the final piece of the puzzle. Paddling earlier in the day, choosing routes with frequent landing options, and shortening trips during extreme heat all reduce risk. Adjusting the plan is often more effective than adjusting clothing alone.

In sea kayaking, dressing for cold water is non-negotiable, but overheating can be managed. With proper clothing, hydration, pacing, and planning, kayakers can stay protected from cold water while remaining comfortable and safe in hot air conditions.

What clothing system do you use for paddling, and how do you manage thermoregulation to prevent overheating when paddling in cold ocean conditions during warm summer air temperatures?