Dressing for Fall and Winter Paddling: Base Layers

Immersion Research has released a line clothing using bamboo fibers

I decided after my last blog about paddle clothing that I would make it a series about clothing rather than one enormously long blog. I will be covering every piece of paddling related clothing, and once I have exhausted clothing, I will begin with different categories of essential gear.

In this entry I will be discussing the most important piece of clothing: the base layer. It is first component of the forever important concept of layering. The base layer is important for many reasons, but I feel that the most important thing to remember about the base layer is that it will be the item that is in constant contact with your skin throughout the day.

On multi-day trips where space and weight are concerns, you may only be taking 2 sets of base layers. For this reason, your base layer should be not only comfortable, but easily washable and quick drying. Cotton is out of the question, which leaves you to a mostly synthetic selection. In a field dominated by synthetics, Immersion Research has introduced some natural fibers with their bamboo clothing.

If there is a place to splurge, its the base layer. A good base will keep your temperature regulated, and when combined with other layers, you will even stay warm if you get soaked. Look for synthetic materials from companies that design paddle specific clothing. I will be providing some details on specific items when I get some time to take photos of some of my favorite items.

Be sure to check out other entries in the Fall and Winter Clothing Series