Winter paddling in a Sit on Top can be daunting: it’s cold, water runs down your legs, water rises up through the self-bailing holes… in short, there are a number of false reasons that can easily be overcome in order to paddle serenely.
Dress code :
General rule, Avoid cotton, which stays cold and damp. Instead, opt for hydrophobic, synthetic materials that wick away perspiration and keep you warm. Take inspiration from the technical undergarments used for winter sports.
As a final layer, an anorak/windbreaker keeps you warm. Specialized stores offer technical models to suit your practice and budget.
Neoprene wetsuits or dry suits : Neoprene helps to keep out the cold when you’re submerged and/or wet. Neoprene wetsuits should fit snugly around the body. Dry suits are watertight, allowing you to layer your technical clothing underneath. Neoprene is no better than a dry suit, and vice versa. Only you can judge its comfort and ease of movement. The most important thing is not to get cold, and to be able to swim just in case. And don’t forget that wearing a buoyancy aid is still highly recommended, if not mandatory. You don’t want this final “layer” to weigh you down during your sessions.
For feet : Neoprene booties or waterproof shoes with membrane socks.
For the hands : Neoprene or nylon/fleece sleeves allow you to paddle with your hands protected from splashes and wind, while maintaining physical contact with the paddle shaft.
Bouchons :
RTM propose des bouchons automatiques. Ces bouchons se positionnent dans les puits autovideurs de votre sit on top. Ces bouchons dispose d’une membrane qui empêche l’eau de remonter et qui permet, avec le mouvement, d’évacuer l’eau du cockpit. En positionnant ces bouchons avant l’embarquement, vous pagaierez avec les fesses au sec.
Pagaie avec Pare-Gouttes :
Anneau se positionnant autour du manche, entre vos mains et la pale. L’eau est alors stoppée dans ce pare-goutte, évite de couler vers vos mains, puis aussi les jambes.
La déperdition de chaleur s’effectue par les extrémités dont la tête.
Bonnet ou cagoule sont importants lors des sessions hivernales. Si la tête va, tout va !
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