Even on those hot summer days, if it rains and the wind starts to blow, your body can lose heat dramatically. Hypothermia can happen any time of year - dress to prevent it.

Start out with a base layer, the same thin garment you would wear against your skin in any conditions. If the temperature drops, add additional insulation or outer layers.

Base layers like a Rapidstyle Rash Guard (left) or Kokatat Inner Core shirt will wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you comfortable. The same base layer is used for any temperature and as such should be among the first items of paddling clothing you buy.

The Kokatat Destination Paddling Jacket is a specialty item listed below. It is used for protection from the sun on hot days. It doesn't have any insulation value, but has a UPF value of 30+.

On warm days when you don't need to wear an outer layer, carry a paddling jacket like the Rapidstyle Microvent Extreme (above right) or any other breathable jacket in your boat, just in case conditions change. In addition, we always carry a Storm Cag in our day hatch for those stormy days.