So you bought a drysuit, congratulations! It’s a big moment. You pull it on for the first time, feel the neck gasket squeeze like it has a personal grudge, and think, “Is this… normal?” A quick Google search later and yep, that’s exactly how it should feel. Now you’re feeling unstoppable. Look out water, here I come.
How You Feel Now
You hit the water, paddle for a few minutes, and realize something important: dry doesn’t mean warm. You’re dry as a bone… a slightly frozen bone. Good thing you didn’t fall in.
So how do you stay warm under the drysuit? After that first cold paddle, your instinct might be to grab the puffiest coat you own and cram it underneath.
So what should you do? You need to layer.
In kayaking, we don’t dress for the weather, we dress for the swim. That means you might be a little warm on the water, but comfortable and safe if you end up in it. Cold water pulls heat from your body very quickly, so the goal is simple: stay dry and keep heat in.
Base Layer
Start with something moisture-wicking and close to the skin. Merino wool or synthetic fabrics (polyester, spandex blends) work really well. They pull sweat away from your body so it doesn’t chill you later.
Avoid cotton completely. Even in a drysuit, sweat will make cotton damp and cold. A great example of a proper base layer is the Hot Fuzz Unisuit by Level Six.
Insulating Layer
This is what actually keeps you warm. Think light but warm — fleece or synthetic insulation. Thin is good; you still want to be able to move comfortably. Again, no cotton. My go-to is the Super Fuzz Fleece Top.
Outer Layer
This is your drysuit — the waterproof shell that keeps all your layers dry. Drysuits don’t provide warmth on their own, but when paired with the right layers, they give you time to get back in your kayak or reach shore comfortably and safely.
But wait… your fingers and toes?
Even with perfect layering, your extremities are the first to get cold. That’s normal. Wear neoprene gloves or pogies, and neoprene booties to help your feet stay warm and functional.
How do you know everything is working?
Do a quick leak test. It’s simple and gives you confidence before paddling in cold water.
What if you’re still unsure?
There’s no single formula like “Water temperature = wear this.” Everyone’s tolerance is different. Your fitness, swim ability, rescue skills, distance from shore, and even stress level all play a role.
This guide gives you a safe, simple starting point — and from there, you adjust based on experience.
Want the science behind this?
Here are two excellent cold-water resources:
www.coldwatersafety.org
www.coldwaterbootcamp.com
They offer clear, beginner-friendly explanations of how your body reacts to cold water and why layering matters.
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