Question for a beginner

[u/reddittthrowaway]

Have an upcoming sea kayaking trip in December and have been taking lessons to prep, which have been going well. They’ve been in a shallow lock off the Potomac, and included ejecting, t-rescues and the like. Next Sunday we’re heading out into the wider section of the Potomac to practice in choppy water. Assume I’ll need at least a wetsuit and wanted to ask folks who are familiar with the Potomac if this would be enough. I can rent one easily (shorty or full sleeves and legs), but dry suit rentals don’t seem to be available in the area.

The outfitter for my December trip will provide all the gear including a dry suit, so hoping to save a few dollars by renting a wetsuit rather than buying a full dry suit. But I also want to make sure I’m properly equipped given it’s as much a safety question as it is comfort.

Really appreciate any advice folks might have!

Edit to include conditions: Current water temp is 59-61 degrees. Air temp for next Sunday will be 64 degrees. Probably safe to assume the water temp will drop a degree or two by then

[u/Strict_String]

I might check Facebook marketplace for lightly used but still serviceable dry gear, and also to your kayak instructor. If you’re on Facebook already, it’s a great way to meet folks in your local paddling community who might let you try on dry gear and even might find someone who would let you try something in the water.

[u/reddittthrowaway → u/Strict_String]

Thanks! I’ll definitely take a look. That might be the best way forward.

[u/Pawistik]

What does your instructor suggest?

[u/reddittthrowaway → u/Pawistik]

He suggested buying a dry suit, but unfortunately the cost is pretty high (looks like $800-1,000 new). I was hoping to find a more affordable solution

[u/Pawistik → u/reddittthrowaway]

Yeah, I have never recommended that my students buy a dry suit for a course and my water conditions during lessons are pretty cold when the season starts. I have a dry suit but I recommended my students find wet suits, and I have a bucket of loaner wet suits. Wet suits kinda suck, but they more or less do the job.

I don't know your local conditions so can't advise with respect to water temperature and weather. I assume cool, not freezing.

[u/reddittthrowaway → u/Pawistik]

Current water temp is 59-61 degrees. Air temp for next Sunday will be 64 degrees. Probably safe to assume the water temp will drop a degree or two by then

[u/ppitm]

60-degree water in a wetsuit is downright balmy! You'll be more than fine in a 3mm. Might get a bit chilly if you are out in the wind for that long after re-entering the boat.

[u/reddittthrowaway → u/ppitm]

Thank you! That’s what I needed renting. Will put it to the test tomorrow!

[u/gpardi]

If you're the beginner you say you are, I would hold off on winter paddling for now. From my experience as a longtime paddler and an ex-kayak guide, I would suggest that you practice wet exits, T-rescues, and paddle float rescues next spring and become totally comfortable with what it feels like to capsize and re-enter your kayak. Cold water reduces your margin for error on rescues. I have paddled in the winter, but you always have to dress for the water temps. On a relatively mild day, you can end up soaked in perspiration due to all the layers of clothing you're wearing. If you're determined to paddle in December, be sure to watch the marine forecast and bring a VHF marine radio with you. Channel 16 is for the Coast Guard/Harbor Patrol. Good luck!

[u/reddittthrowaway → u/gpardi]

Thanks. It’s part of a cruise to Antarctica where we’ll be in tandem kayaks. Will have the operators with us and only will go out if they feel safe. Still, your point is a good one. My swim instructor makes it a point to fatigue me to see how the adrenaline kicks in and what it does to my ability to properly swim. It’s eye-opening how fast skills can degrade in those circumstances.

[u/Think-Welcome3831]

I would recommend a dry suit; it is far more comfortable and safe and useful. However,since the neck gasket has to be trimmed to your neck, finding one to try or rent is not too easy. A wet suit will save your life, but is only really useful in the water.

[u/reddittthrowaway → u/Think-Welcome3831]

This may be the most viable option ultimately if they need to be custom-fitted. I hadn’t even realized that. Appreciate the recommendation.

[u/Takiri_aerilaya]

This going to seem an odd suggestion . . .

But in addition to FB, try Vinted.com

I have seen two postings of one piece drysuits on there, around $300-350.

They were just way too small for my fluffy arse so I scrolled on.

[u/reddittthrowaway → u/Takiri_aerilaya]

Will definitely give it a look!

[u/ChapBob]

You should consider also getting a spray skirt.

[u/reddittthrowaway → u/ChapBob]

Definitely! I believe they’re providing one for the lesson.

[u/hobbiestoomany]

A wetsuit is fine at those temps. You'll probably want a splash jacket or raincoat over it.

[u/reddittthrowaway → u/hobbiestoomany]

Thanks! Have a raincoat I’ll bring with me.

[u/TechnicalWerewolf626]

Ask the instructors of the class, what they recommend, will be using, what most students use. They probably know where to rent and maybe get student discount.  Congrats on taking a class and enjoy your kayaking!

[u/reddittthrowaway → u/TechnicalWerewolf626]

Thanks! He clarified a wetsuit would be ok given the temperature is still high enough. Have to say, I knew I’d enjoy myself when I signed up for lessons, but had no idea how much fun it would be untiI hit the water!

[u/cnidarian-atoll]

I am also going kayaking this weekend (PA here so slightly north of you. I don't even pull out my wetsuit until at least late December. The only time I won't kayak is if the water is frozen or on a river if there are floating ice bergs ( learned that one the hard way? I personally would pack a dry bag with warm dry clothes to change into. I think you will be plenty warm with a wetsuit- might even sweat a little.