If you live in a region with tough winters, the paddling season can seem far too short. It can take a few weeks to get back into the rhythm after ice out. Muscles need to return to their once paddle-ready strength. Systems and logistics for transporting your kayak need to be locked in. New gear needs to be purchased, and old gear repaired. Then before you know it, the leaves seem to be changing.
But what if the paddling season didn’t need to cease come fall? If you want to paddle through the coldest and darkest months of the year, you will need a few solid pieces of gear to make it happen.
Icebreaker Merino
175 Everyday Long Sleeve Thermal Cold Weather Base Layer
$85 | icebreaker.com
This highly breathable and versatile crewneck shirt is perfect for backpacking, paddling, hiking and adventure. Quick-drying, odor-resistant fabric makes it a suitable choice for a base layer on multiday paddling trips. The garment is made from 100% merino wool for warmth and moisture-wicking properties.
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Kokatat
Legacy Dry Suit
$1,449 | kokatat.com
Designed with whitewater paddlers top of mind, this front-entry drysuit from Kokatat is easy access and is guaranteed to keep kayakers dry when paddling in any weather. GORE-TEX PRO protection ensures water won’t get in, even when fully immersed. The suit also features latex gaskets with a neoprene punch-through neck and neoprene-lined adjustable wrist cuffs. Streamlined leg pattern and wraparound routing of the women’s drop seat reduces interference with the kayak outfitting.
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KOKATAT AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY REI
Kokatat
Polartec Power Dry Outercore Habanero Liner
$199 | kokatat.com
Comfort meets functionality in this four-way stretch, Polartec fleece onesie. It’s one of our favorite garments to wear under drysuits. Why? Because it’s moisture-wicking, dries quickly, has front and rear relief, and has an articulated design with flat-stitched seams. Give the gift of comfort to that special paddler in your life.
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KOKATAT BACKCOUNTRY OUTDOORPLAY REI
Mustang Survival
Women’s Torrens Thermal Crew Jacket
$264 | mustangsurvival.com
A great accessory for the canoeist or recreational kayaker in your life, this comfy jacket is contour-cut with a stretch-woven outer shell finished with DWR (durable water repellant) coating, specifically designed by Mustang Survival for outdoor enthusiasts who embrace adventure in any weather.
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NRS
3MM Freestyle Wetshoe
$67 | nrs.com
Whether you’re buying for the paddleboarder, kayaker, or canoeist in your life, these rubber-soled neoprene booties are built to please. With seams sealed to keep the cold water out, and graphene-infused interior, these boots are a great choice for cold-weather paddlers who suffer from chilly toes.
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NRS
Toaster Mitts
$89 | nrs.com
It’s in the name! The mitten-style design of these best-selling neoprene gloves from NRS increases warmth without compromising on grip or dexterity. A great gift for paddlers who refuse to take a break over the winter months.
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NRS
Storm Hood
$59 | nrs.com
A cold weather paddler’s nemesis: brain freeze. We can’t guarantee we won’t go upside down at some point, but we can guarantee protection for our brain bucket. Suitable to wear under helmets, this 2.5mm neoprene hood is perfect for extra protection and warmth.
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Scotty
311 Cup Holder
$16 | scotty.com
Perfect for paddlers of all kinds, this Scotty cup holder is designed for cans, coffee mugs and insulated sleeves. It is also a convenient accessory rack to hang lures and tools and can be mounted on a horizontal or vertical surface. It also includes a versatile “mount anywhere” button and rod holder post mount.
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Thermos
King Vacuum-Insulated Beverage Bottle, 40-oz
$30 | thermos.com
A chilly day out on the water would not be complete without a hot brew. This 40-oz vacuum insulated flask is a double win: it keeps liquids hot for 24 hours or cold liquids cold for 24 hours. The lid doubles as an insulated serving cup; the twist and pour function allows you to pour without moving the stopper.
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Yoicy
Heavy Thick Wool Socks
Starting at $18 | Pack of 3
These heavyweight, wool-blend socks are ready to tackle cold weather. Designed with comfort and performance in mind, these socks are a perfect accessory piece for the kayaker who sports a drysuit or dry pants while paddling. Even if these socks aren’t worn on the water, there’s no such thing as “too many socks.”
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Feature Photo: Photo by Karson
