dress for the conditions

[Cymrogwyllt]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-wiltshire-21987624

I've had to knock the ice out of the bottom of the kayak before getting in on the Dee, fallen over as you do, and stayed toasty.

Similarly I've had sea spray freeze the zip on my buoyancy aid closed and carried on with the trip.

I never wore a wet suit top as it restricted movement too much. (debatable point but personal choice). Chose mix of thermals/thin layers instead, even thermals on top of thermals.

Thermals weigh next to nothing to carry.

In my paddling days I could have entered in to the race despite having done no more than 30 miles odd at a go. I suggest that some of the competitors got the very basics wrong.


argue amongst yourselves

 

[yoda]

In my youth I remember training through the winter and at times we were breaking Ice as we paddled on the Kennet and Avon. Pill boxes made good overnight stops and we would keep an open fire going to stay warm.

Yoda

 

[simonfraser]

I agree, plenty of good gear available, especially now.
At least they pulled out rather than caused a load of hassle for others later.

 

[onesea]

I agree, plenty of good gear available, especially now.
At least they pulled out rather than caused a load of hassle for others later.

+1

I am sure for many it was meant to be a fun Jaunt and camp in a canoe, not an endurance challenge to that degree... Respect to them they gave it a go and had enough...

 

[trapezeartist]

According to the Swedes there's no such thing as bad weather; only bad clothing. But they're all barking mad anyway.

I wouldn't criticise anyone who pulled out: it's meant to be fun. We went sailing Sunday and Monday. It was cold but just about bearable. The gas bottle wasn't too keen on delivering enough gas to fry the bacon though, and it was mighty chilly overnight until the sleeping bag warmed up. Lovely sunshine on Sunday though, and a good sailing wind on Monday.