Paddling Seasons
Paddling can be either a summer sport or a year round sport. You can get three
month's use from your investment each year or twelve month's use. The choice is yours!
Most people in Kansas don’t think about water sports unless it is warm enough to swim. They are unaware that one can be sweating while paddling on ice-cold water. They can’t imagine removing gloves and headgear to dissipate a little body heat as the day warms a few degrees above freezing.
When it is hot most serious paddlers reduce their paddling activities or travel somewhere cooler. In the Midwest the best water can be found in the spring when the rains increase the flow in the rivers and creeks and the snow melts in the mountains. Rivers and creeks dry up in the July and August making it difficult to find a good paddle location.
I would like you to know that I am not one that likes to be cold. Once upon a time I
thought padding in cold weather was as crazy. I am a person that can get cold watching television or working in my office. You might find me wearing a coat indoors or wearing a stocking cap to bed. I dislike being cold just like you do. I am telling you this so you can know that my blood flows at 98 F just like yours and I have learned to keep warm and cozy while enjoying winter paddling.
I also don’t like getting to hot or sunburned. I have learned to paddle in the hot sun and stay reasonably cool and not get sunburned.
The secret is proper clothing. Proper clothing can turn a summer paddling hobby to a year round sport. The only exception to this is when the ice is thicker than a thin film. When I paddle in cold weather I am usually hot! My enjoyment is reduced by summertime heat. I paddle in the summer to
help share the sport with new folks. My preference is spring, fall and winter and in that order.
Please Note: Other documents are available to help you learn about proper paddle clothing, rescue techniques and safety issues before paddling. Be sure to team with an experienced paddling partner before attempting cold-water paddling or night paddling. Cold water paddling gear is highly specialized and cannot be purchased at your local x-mart store. You must dress for an accidental swim based on the water temperature. As with most outdoor sports, you can have a lot of safe fun or you can die from doing something stupid.
© 2005 Chris Collins, All Rights Reserved