cold feet?

[Jimmyz123]

Originally Posted by old_rookie

I can easily get cold, and was thinking of getting breathable waders - but after reading this from Jim Sammons: http://kayak4fish.com/press/WinterKa...hing0204.shtml

from his article:
"I consider waders an option for bays or lake fishing only; I would never wear waders in a surf zone. The force of the waves is so strong that it will force water into the waders, which can cause you some real problems as you try to swim into shore. "

So I was thinking dive booties? something to keep my feet warm after they get wet from the launch. Or just man up and ignore the cold.

Normally I'm not a chicken when it comes to water, but I hate being cold. I always seem to wear too much going out on the bay. I haven't surf launched yet. I wear booties all the time because I like the warmth they provide. While in the bay I have been wearing some cheap waders that I picked up at Big 5, they cost me $12 and are warm for what I'm using them for. That's what I have been using lately to keep costs down. I think when the time comes I'll do as many have suggested with the pants, belt, and jackets. Most of all you need to be comfortable. As I have learned with wearing too much, you also get too hot and fast.

About the video that Jim put on Youtube about the waders, that right there is great information. Keep that in mind.

[StinkyMatt]

Jimmy, the breathable waders allow you to actually not sweat too much, you may still sweat in them but not too much. The neoprane (wetsuit material) may make you sweat a lot. When you sweat you are very likely to get cold as soon as your activity subsides, like when you stop paddling and just sit in your kayak. The little water booties are great for extra foot warmth and protection of the wader feet. Sports authority sells some for $8. These will not last many years but for 8 bucks?

Seriously, don't worry about the safety thing of the waders, you WILL always wear a PFD. You and I have heard and read enough stories of near misses to not wear one. Its not just for when you fall off your yak, its when you become some boaters' speedbump.

Tight lines, Matt

[dsafety]

A lot of good advice here. Most of it correct. From my experience, wet suits might be a good idea if you plan to get dunked a lot but not for sitting on a yak for half a day. Breathable waders work great. Zippered ones make taking natures call much easier.

If you get cold, wear something warm under the waders. The rubber boots need to fit properly. Too tight will cut off circulation. Too loose may do the same if you try to cram them in to some water shoes, (I have first hand experience with this one).

Of course, the two most important accessories are the PFD and a good belt. Jim Sammons has a kayak safety class that goes over all of this stuff for those who are new to the sport or a little apprehensive about getting dumped in the surf. Once you figure it out, it is all pretty easy.

Bob

[Hunters Pa]

Dive booties with rubber soles so you can walk on rocks & not worry about getting holes

[Jimmyz123]

Originally Posted by StinkyMatt

Jimmy, the breathable waders allow you to actually not sweat too much, you may still sweat in them but not too much. The neoprane (wetsuit material) may make you sweat a lot. When you sweat you are very likely to get cold as soon as your activity subsides, like when you stop paddling and just sit in your kayak. The little water booties are great for extra foot warmth and protection of the wader feet. Sports authority sells some for $8. These will not last many years but for 8 bucks?

Seriously, don't worry about the safety thing of the waders, you WILL always wear a PFD. You and I have heard and read enough stories of near misses to not wear one. Its not just for when you fall off your yak, its when you become some boaters' speedbump.

Tight lines, Matt

Thanks for the information, I think you have helped me to choose what I am going to do. Why recreate the wheel? Just go with something works and has been proven to do the job.