Winter Warmers

It’s time to face it, it’s getting cooler!

We’ve certainly had our fair share of warmth, so it’s kinda lovely to feel the seasons change as we move towards the middle of the year.

This is still my favourite time of the year to paddle.

Mornings are fresh and crisp; the water is glassy, and we’ve said goodbye to the sea breeze.

Unless a front is coming through, there is little to no wind and both ocean and river are spectacular.

This time of year, we also see an increase in swell, so for those of you who already SUP surf, or those keen to give it a try – there are waves coming!

“What is the best thing to wear while out paddling?”

I get asked this question so often.

Well, it depends on the kind of paddling you are doing.

We can break it up into 3 categories.

1. Recreational SUP cruising – If you have an all-rounder and mostly cruise at walking pace on the flat/river and paddle to chill and take in the scenery and unlikely to fall in.
2. SUP for Fitness – Paddlers who like to work up a sweat with a faster cadence who use SUP as part of their weekly fitness goals – but also like to chill and take in the scenery! May fall in while executing turns.
3. Ocean/Surf SUP – Ocean paddlers who may fall in while surfing, or those spending long amounts of time out on the water.

You may fit into one category – or all three!

1: Recreational SUP cruising gear

Think about your paddling as a brisk walk. You start off a bit chilly but as you start moving, you warm up, so my best advice is layers! T-shirt, then a long-sleeved top and maybe a lightweight jacket you can take off as you warm up. Natural fibres are best as they allow the body to breathe.

You guys are unlikely to fall off so nothing waterproof is necessary. Comfort should be a factor, so nothing rubbing under your arms or across shoulders. Leggings are the best idea for the bottom half. I wear yoga style pants, but Vaikobi does a great range of thicker, warmer paddling pants.

For top layers, I love Macpac gear. Head out to the DFO near the airport.

2: SUP for Fitness gear

Similar to the first category – maybe less layers.

If I go out early morning – I wear the Vaikobi pants mentioned above.

On top, I have a merino-wool, long-sleeved top – similar to this.

3: Ocean/Surf SUP gear

This is the only category I would consider wearing a wet suit – or wetsuit/neoprene type material. Depending on the type of paddling you could choose a short leg, long sleeve, long leg, short sleeve (Spring Suit) or long leg, long sleeve (Steamer).

There are heaps of places to get wetties.

Try the Stand Up Surf Shop in North Fremantle, Adreno/Wetsuit Warehouse in O’Connor or Volte Wetsuits.

For the SUP chicks – if you want to stand out in the line-up – check these beauties out at Gemma Lee.

If you can, TRY IT ON BEFORE YOU BUY IT!

I try and promote local gear as much as possible so check out The Ocean Remedy Store in Fremantle. Claire can custom make rashies, swimsuits, shorts and leggings all made from recycled plastic. Sizes 6 – 20 – so there is something for everybody.

Even with these guidelines, it does depend on your personal reaction to the cold.

We’re all different – so wear what you feel comfortable in. If you are shivering and not enjoying yourself, then you need to rug up next time. You can always take layers off if needed.

I have people rock up to SUP Fitness in full wetsuits and that is totally fine. I couldn’t paddle in that – as I get too hot – but I also don’t fall in, so WEAR WHAT IS GOOD FOR YOU.

I often wear a beanie (my head gets cold) you can always take it off if you get warm, but if your head stays warm, then everything else can often feel snug too.

You also don’t need to spend a fortune. Having said that – quality lasts, so spend wisely.

I highly recommend Vaikobi, Red Paddle Co and Macpac, VOLTE wetsuits (I don’t get a dime from these places so only endorsing them out of love)

One item that is a MUST post paddle – a change robe or big hooded towel.

These highly fashionable and stunning garments are like a warm hug when you get off the water!!!

My fav is the Ocean and Earth water-proof poncho.

Red Paddle Co do an amazing one also.

Another hot tip (see what I did there?) is to fill a thermos full of hot water and a bucket/tub.

If your feet get super cold – it’s nice to soak your feet after your paddle.

Speaking of tubs. A big plastic tub (Bunnings) is a great addition to the boot of your car.

Store leg ropes, tie-down straps, spare fins etc.

And then wet gear can be chucked in after your paddle.

If you’re heading out for breaky or coffee after your SUP session the best idea ever is the Milk Bottle Shower!

Grab an empty 2 litre milk container, poke some holes in the lid, then fill it full of super-hot water before you leave home.

Wallah – you have an instant warm water shower to rinse off the salt.

Then, it’s coffee time!!!!

Keep an eye out – next story will be the best SUP n’ Coffee locations in Perth and beyond.

Do you have any other SUP related questions? Or do you have other ideas and tips or great online sites to purchase gear – jump over to my Community Page on Facebook to contribute.