Paddling in Cold Weather

There are three rules to remember when dressing for cold weather:

1. No cotton. It soaks up water and holds it against your skin, leaving it worthless as an insulator and heavy as a layer. A worthless, worthless fabric in the water.

2. Layers help trap heat and fend off water. Remember "wick, warmth, and weather" as you arrange your layers ­ light wicking fabrics first, then warm insulating sweaters or fleeces, and finally an waterproof outer layer to protect you from the elements.

3. No cotton; seriously.

Cold Weather Dressing Tips