Arkansas Canoe Club Forums

I'm new to kayaking and I know cold water is coming soon. I ordered a wetsuit online and it's on the way. My question is about wearing a rash guard. How necessary is it? I bike a lot and I was thinking the wetsuit would fit like my bike shorts. They are tight so they move with me but now I'm second guessing it. I would love some feedback from those with experience.

A lot of gear preferences are merely personal taste.

I always wear a rash guard under a farmer john wetsuit. I also wear thermal leggings under. I don't like the feel of a clammy wetsuit on my skin.

If I wear a wetsuit all day, especially if I get immersed early in the day, the wetsuit can irritate my skin without anything underneath.

Also, the warmth of a wetsuit is enhanced by a thermal layer underneath.

Depending on the temperatures I vary the thickness of the rash guard and leggings.

My .02.

Mark

Like Mark, I always wear a rash guard under my FJ wetsuit short sleeve or long depends on temps. Usually with just river shorts also depending on temps. Sometimes base layer pants under. If I need more warmth than that I opt for my dry suit. a good wetsuit and some base layers along with appropriate outer wear will see you thru much of AR's cooler weather paddling.

Thanks for the advice!