With dropping temperatures and falling snow, some canoeist are pushing well into December or even January. A quick stop at your local outdoor retailer may extend your paddling season by weeks or even months.

Caution is always needed when dealing with cold water and even colder air temperatures, but being properly dressed, equipped and prepared can extend the canoeing season. The big bonus – no bugs!  So let’s get geared up.

When considering winter canoeing, instructors recommend, “dressing for immersion.” While this may be the safest solution, it may not always be a practical one.  Are you really going to wear a heavy survival suit? For most people, there is some basic equipment that can keep you comfortable on the water.

Starting with base layers, it is a good idea to go with some wicking material that will help your body with moisture management and keep you warm even if it does get wet. Look for synthetic or merino layers and definitely stay away from cotton in all instances. Winter travellers know that your worst enemy in the cold is unwanted moisture that will contribute to lowering your body temp and putting you at risk. Try to stay dry in the first place by not over exerting yourself – plus, sweating in polypro does not make you any friends.

According to Chris Scerri owner of the Canadian Outdoor Equipment Company, in Port Credit, Ontario, "Woolpower Thermal Wear, a merino blended thermal system is becoming a big fan of paddlers who want to stay out there longer. Woolpower does a great job of wicking moisture, absorbing odour and keeping you warm even when wet! It adds great comfort under a dry suit or on its own."

Depending how far you are going to push it, you will probably need additional thermal layers. Fleece or thicker wool will do the trick. Adjust these layers to your bodies’ needs and the requirements of the temperatures. Remember the key to layering is being able to adjust to external temperatures and activity levels. You will need to adjust if you are planning a 2km portage/drag across the snow or setting up to do some bird watching or fishing.

Top off your apparel with a good waterproof, breathable layer. Whitewater situations demand a drysuit but in the case of the lakewater paddler, if you don’t have the latest Kokotat dry suit, you can improvise with your other winter weight waterproof breathables.

But don’t forget your head, hands and feet. A good hat is important, as well as footwear that will keep you warm and dry as you trudge through the snow or the last few feet of ice on the way to the open water. Pogies or gloves that are neoprene or ‘fuzzy rubber’ are invaluable for keeping feeling and dexterity in your fingers.

Keeping in mind that you will want that dry suit in situations that demand getting wet, like if water levels are up at the local surfing hole, staying warm should be straight forward, as long as you have a change of clothes and a hot thermos of chocolate on hand if you do go for a dunk.

Always be aware of changing weather conditions and that it gets dark very much earlier than in the summer.  Carry a headlamp just in case you are out longer than expected and be extremely cautious around areas of ice build up or in moving water.  Cold weather and winter paddling can be beautiful and rewarding, but remember it’s not August!

Photo Credit: Jonathan Pratt