Just because summer is over doesn't mean paddling season has to be.

With the right neoprene gear, you can comfortably extend your time on the water well into the fall, and get back out there again as soon as the ice is gone in spring. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber material that has been around since the 1930s. It's highly versatile and used in everything from protective clothing to orthopedic braces, thanks to properties like being lightweight, waterproof, resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, and even offering flame retardancy and insulation.

For paddlers, neoprene is an essential material. It keeps you comfortable, durable, and warm even when the water is cold. It's also flexible and stretchy, allowing for a full range of movement, and it helps protect you from scrapes or sharp objects, exactly what you need to keep paddling once the water starts to cool down.

When to Wear a Wetsuit vs a Dry Suit

A good rule of thumb is to dress for the water, not the air. Below is a quick breakdown of which one makes sense for your shoulder-season paddle.

How Does a Neoprene Wetsuit Work?

Wetsuits are designed to trap a thin layer of water between the suit and the skin. Your body then warms that water, creating insulation against the cold. Neoprene adds buoyancy and flexibility, while different thicknesses offer varying degrees of warmth.

The material of the wetsuit also helps to keep the heat in and the cold out. Neoprene wetsuits are a popular choice as they're lightweight and flexible while also providing excellent insulation. The thickness of the wetsuit can also play a role in its effectiveness at keeping the wearer warm, with thicker suits providing more insulation.

Neoprene Thickness Guide

• 0.5-1.5 mm: Summer layering pieces (tops, shorts, leggings)
• 2-3 mm: Spring and fall paddling
• 3+ mm or dry suit layering: Cold water or winter paddling

OVAP's Recommended Gear

Here at OVAP, we're huge fans of the Canadian brand Level Six. We've carried their gear for years, wear it ourselves, and stand by it because it's tried, trusted, and sustainable. Level Six is Canadian-owned and has taken major steps toward eco-friendliness by eliminating PFAS "forever chemicals" and using 100% recycled nylon in their clothing.

Wetsuits

Our go-to neoprene option is the Level Six Farmer Jane & John Wetsuits. Built with 3 mm Thermo-Stretch neoprene and a full front zipper, these wetsuits are a durable layering base for paddlers. Think of them as your foundation, you can pair them with fleece or tops like the Jericho or Sombrio Long Sleeve for cooler days.

Splash Tops

For wind and spray protection, add a splash top. Our favourites are the Ellesmere and Torngat Splash Tops. They're lightweight, breathable, and waterproof, giving you that extra shield on gusty or rainy days. Plus, they feature an adjustable neoprene waistband and a double cuff wrist system to ensure a snug fit that keeps water out while allowing for easy movement.

Dry Suits

Dry suits are essential once temperatures drop below 10°C or when paddling in icy waters. Made with tough, waterproof-breathable nylon, they're designed for the coldest conditions, from a winter day on your SUP to whitewater canoeing and kayaking.

Neoprene Gloves

Cold hands can end a paddle early. We carry Level Six Proton Gloves and Cascade Gloves, both designed for warmth, dexterity, and grip.

Neoprene Booties and Socks

Keep your feet warm and protected with:

• Level Six River Boot 2.0: Redesigned with a vulcanized rubber sole and 3 mm neoprene for comfort and grip.
• Level Six Photon Socks: Lightweight neoprene socks with traction soles, perfect inside shoes or sandals.

Pros and Cons of Wetsuits

What Else Should I Wear?

Neoprene makes a fantastic base layer, but you'll want more clothing over top, especially in cold weather conditions. Consider adding a cozy fleece sweater to keep your upper body warm, and pair it with a splash jacket. Opt for windbreaker pants to shield yourself from chilly winds. Dry-fit shirts and pants are also great choices, offering moisture-wicking properties to keep you comfortable during your aquatic endeavours. The key is to strike a balance between staying warm and maintaining ease of movement, so choose clothing that suits both your needs and the conditions you'll be facing.

Neoprene for Fishing

When embarking on a kayak, canoe, or SUP fishing expedition in cooler temperatures, wearing neoprene clothing can be a game-changer for your safety and comfort. It can get chilly when sitting for an extended period of time waiting for that first bite. Neoprene provides excellent insulation and acts as a heat shield while you patiently wait, particularly useful when you're out on the water for extended periods.

For optimum protection, consider wearing a neoprene wetsuit, gloves, and booties. The material is flexible, allowing for a wide range of motion, which is essential when casting a line. Investing in good quality neoprene clothing can elevate your fishing experience by keeping you warm, giving you greater freedom of movement, and offering an added layer of buoyancy and safety.

Caring for Your Neoprene

Taking good care of your neoprene keeps it working season after season.

In Conclusion

Neoprene is best worn when paddling in cooler temperatures, such as spring or fall. If you're an avid paddler who wants to keep going through the off-season, neoprene products might be exactly what you need. It's also a great option any time of year if you want protection from knicks, cuts, and the sun's harsh rays.

We definitely recommend wearing protective neoprene gear when paddling in water temperatures of 16°C or cooler. During warmer months, you can switch to lighter-weight, less insulated alternatives like rash guards or board shorts.

Always remember to stay safe on the water at any time of year, but take extra precaution when the temperatures drop. Happy paddling!