As summer comes to an end some of the summer gear gets put away and our thoughts turn to the approaching winter. But should our kayaks be one of those things to be put away? For some people the answer will be yes as they will prefer to do their paddling in the warm weather but for many of us it is time to adjust some of our gear ready for a different season of paddling.
Paddling in the fall and on into the winter brings both challenges and rewards, shorter days but glorious colours, colder weather but clearer air, rougher seas but lots more wildlife out on the water with you.
As the weather changes to colder temperatures, increased rainfall, shorter days the first consideration we have to make is to our wardrobe. Gone are the days of paddling in shorts and a thin paddling top or t shirt. Now we have to consider layering up and dressing for the water temperature rather than air. Last year we looked in detail at clothing for winter paddling and now might be a good time to visit that entry which can be found here;
As we enter the fall we can begin by adding an extra layer for warmth, typically a synthetic fleece or heavier weight base layer and adding a rain shell or paddling jacket over the top. Our shorts may be replaced by a pair of base layer pants and/or fleece/heavier pants. Our footwear will change from sandals/water shoes to thicker neoprene boots with or without warm socks inside, and we will endeavour to keep our feet dry getting in and out of our boat.
One of the biggest changes when paddling on into the fall will be the extra gear that we pack with us. As well as the extra clothing that we are wearing we will have a drybag of extra clothes in case of a mishap or the need to add extra layers. We will also dig out a toque, waterproof rain hat, paddling gloves or pogies. We may replace our nylon sprayskirt with a heavier duty, tighter fitting neoprene one to keep the warmth in our boat and to seal out the sea. With the shorter days we’ll make sure that we have a flashlight or headlamp in case we come back later than expected and it is starting to get dark. I carry a small waterproof shelter that a group of up to 6 can sit inside if it rains during our lunch stop, a large tarp can perform the same function. The food we pack for lunches will change, we will likely have more food to replace lost energy during colder weather paddles and we may carry extra food just in case we need it. We will dig out the thermoses for taking meals such as soup or chilli to warm us during lunch stops. I usually carry a small stove and pot so that if necessary I can make a hot drink during a shore break. We will listen in to the weather updates on VHF radios with more attention to make sure there aren’t any sudden changes happening in the weather that might catch us out. If we are going further afield on a day paddle we might consider packing some camping gear just in case we get caught out by weather or time and decide its better to spend a night in the warm rather than trying to make it back in worsening weather. If this is the case make sure you can let your emergency contact know the change in your plans.
Planning trips and watching the weather becomes more important to make the most of those good days and to ensure that we aren’t being too ambitious with our plans and don’t get caught out by weather changes which can be more sudden and dramatic than in summer. Erring on the side of caution more when the weather may be worse and the days shorter is a prudent practice. Considering where we are paddling and thinking carefully about bad weather alternatives to shorten trips if necessary become more to the forefront in our planning.
Consider where you are paddling, Fall can be a great time to explore larger lakes that are too busy in the summer but in fall make great paddling destinations with calmer water than the ocean and beautiful fall colours as a backdrop. Lakeside campgrounds will be quiet and empty making these areas perfect for overnight trips.
So don’t necessarily think that now summer is over its time to put the kayaks away until the spring. Withe the right gear selections fall, and even into the winter, can be a great time to be out paddling just check the weather, plan appropriate objectives and get out and enjoy the beauty at this time of year.
See you on the water!
Alberni Outpost: Go Play Outside 