Gear list page updated with apparel section Wow. I had a rapid response to my recent article titled 'Keeping warm on the kayak' in which I paid special attention to Skarkskin and Aqua fleece apparel. Being that it's winter (and a cold winter at that) I guess I shouldn't be surprised on getting so much immediate feedback. It seems I'm not the only one who's been looking out for solutions to staying warm while kayaking in the southern half of Australia during the cooler months. I've received numerous emails and PMs, some of which have asked me where they can get the stuff (which I did actually mention in the article, linked towards the end) and some that have asked how I thought these products compared to some other commonly used garments or fabrics. I certainly don't have all the answers there because I haven't used it all.
One reader did recall a post I made last year on the Icebreaker line of merino wool clothing and asked if I had shelved that in favour for Sharkskin. The short answer is no, but a more accurate reply would be to say that I'd be inclined to use the Icebreaker gear in situations where the Sharkskin is probably overkill. I like the comparable icebreaker garments for different reasons (mainly it's incredible permeability). For example, I have an icebreaker singlet, which I'd wear in reasonably warm days, or mildly cool days. I do, however, always wear my Icebreaker beanie on cold days, full stop.
Another reader remembered a post I made about Sealskin merino lined socks, and asked whether or not I think the Sharkskin is better. Tough question that. I do think the Sealskins are warmer, though I find that because they are waterproof, and not as tightly fitted, if the foot is submerged, they trap water inside. Sharkskin socks don't. It's great to have both though, because I hate putting on wet socks and often go out two days in a row. So if I was to wear the Sharkskins on the Saturday, for example, I'd likely wear the Sealskins on the Sunday. It's good to have options.
I was also asked if I had to choose between the Rooster Sailing Aqua fleece and Sharkskin, which would it be? Another tough question, which I'd be inclined to answer by asking a couple of questions. Such as 'do you paddle a lot, and do you prefer a loose fitting garment?' If yes, answer is Aqua fleece. Next question would be 'do you plan to do some diving from the kayak?' If yes, I'd answer Sharkskin. But ultimately, as mentioned in that article, the two used in conjunction make for a brilliant, practically infallible solution for retaining body heat and resisting wind chill for mid-winter kayaking. That was the overall point of the article.
And yes, I do still have a few neoprene items. One being a pair of Adrenaline boots, which although inexpensive, I find pretty good. And I do still use a pair of 2mll thick neoprene pants that I wear over the Sharkskin pants on those really cold days. Oh yes... I'm also using Oceanpro gloves, which have a neoprene upper and suede palm/fingers.
The response I got on this write up influenced me to update the gear list page. I've added a section on apparel, which I probably should have done when I refreshed it's look and content a few weeks back.
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