dressing for cold wet boating

Very informative stuff Stringy & others. I am regularly amazed just how far members go in relation to gear they accumulate for their sports....Pirate

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Master of the galleon 'Pirates Lot'

I was wondering Stringy if there are any disadvantages with the longer Sealskinz that aren't obvious. ie: are they more uncomfortable than the shorter version ? It just seem to me that the longer version would be a better way to go. I didn't realise also that if the top of the sock goes under the water line that they will let in water. Wouldn't that almost always be the case with the shorter sock version ?

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Don't take life too seriously................it ain't permanent.

Madwand, I don't have any problems wearing water sandals when pedalling. Are you using the foot straps that came on the peddles (if the newer boats even have those anymore)? If so, I can see where that would make a difference.

Stringy, I also am interested in your comparison of the longer vs. shorter socks. They weren't available when I got my short ones.

And I don't exactly have skinny calves, so my short socks fit snug enough to keep the water out. I guess you guys with a normal anatomy could have that problem.

Yes, I have the straps on the pedals. I prefer to peddle without shoes on anyway. The socks are a good idea. I bought 2 of the chillblocker versions last night on ebay. Now I can kick my shoes off once I'm in the boat, and start peddling comfortably.

Pirate,
With a SOT kayak good gear is essential as there isn't much protection from the elements!


Slaughter,
They are a bit more uncomfortable because they have an 'in cuff seal' which seems to be a layer of silicon like sealer smeared inside at the top of the sock. It can catch a bit on the hairs of your leg! Being longer they sit at the top of the calf which can take a bit of getting used to but if you want to step in deeper water they work best. They are more expensive though.



The shorter socks did let water in when it was over the top of the sock. Maybe the hairs on my legs didn't help?
The waterblockers are definitely drier.

Thanks for the feedback Stringy. Of course there is also the 'image' thing to consider.

Shorts with long socks ??? Not a good look !

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Don't take life too seriously................it ain't permanent.

most people aren't in shorts when it gets colder outside

Exactly Leipo. If the Sealskinz are on... so are the long Goretex pants.
Slaughter is a bit of a fashionista though. I'm thinking of a certain jacket from a while back (I've got the pic remember?). Not to mention the 'ninja turtle' PFD!