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Essential Pieces of Gear for Spring Paddling

by | April 11, 2019

1. Kokatat Dry Suit: Essential for working on the river and swimming in cold water.

2. Capilene base layer.

3. Kokatat Dry Top: Great option if you can’t afford drysuit and more versatile if you combine with bibs (#8). Can use all year long.

4. Kokatat Habanero Unisuit: Love this warm layer. Less bulk with uni-suit around the waist.!

5. NRS Helmet Liner: This keeps your head warm, you can also use a swim cap if you can’t afford one of these.

6. HydroFlask water bottle: Don’t forget to stay hydrated and also make sure to secure inside of boat.

7. Sweet Helmet.

8. Kokatat Bibs: Combine with dry top and stay dry. Super versatile piece of gear. I wear these more than my drysuit, especially when I’m guiding. More comfy for prepping lunch, rigging boats, and around camp if its rainy.

9. Rescue PFD: This is an industry standard for guiding. River knife, whistle (on elastic band), and watch are always attached.

10. Neoprene socks: Wear these on the outside of your drysuit/bib socks to prevent pin-holes and wear and tear from gravel/dirt that gets inside your shoes.

11. Neoprene mitts: Only ones that keep my hands warm

12. River booties/shoes: This is a whole separate topic. Just make sure you have good shoes that won’t fall off your feet if you take a swim

13. Salamander Guide Throw Bag: always on you when needed.

14. Ridgerest sleeping pad to change on: Why not spoil yourself?

15. Sprayskirt: To keep the water out and me inside my boat!

16. Personal lap bag: This contains extra layer, snacks, sunscreen, and about 30 other items. We will write another blog on what to pack inside your lap bag. I highly recommend Watershed Ocoee

17.Gear bag: Gotta put all this stuff in something. Keep some carabiners handy for strapping down, etc..The only time I forget a piece of gear is when I seperate it (usually for wash). Don’t separate your gear!