Whitewater Forum: Another question as a poor paddler

Another question as a poor paddler

Printed From: ProfessorPaddle.com
Category: General
Forum Name: Whitewater Forum
Forum Discription: Open Discussion Forum. Whitewater related subjects only
URL: http://www.professorpaddle.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=10599
Printed Date: 27 Sep 2025 at 6:58pm

Topic: Another question as a poor paddler

Posted By: ENDO
Subject: Another question as a poor paddler
Date Posted: 23 Mar 2011 at 9:30pm

I got out this weekend and was freezing my ass off in just my wetsuit and drytop. I noticed that some people were wearing a bib type deal. I have a pair of chest waders that are very similar... But Im not sure how safe that is. Would it work? has anyone tried it?

Replies:

Posted By: jhoff
Date Posted: 23 Mar 2011 at 10:35pm

Not familiar with your waders, but even purpose-built kayaking drypants/dry bibs are considered pretty unsafe by some.

http://www.professorpaddle.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=10098&PID=53662 - Click here for a PP thread discussing this topic

Posted By: Wiggins
Date Posted: 24 Mar 2011 at 6:36am

Most waders are much thicker and stiffer than wetsuits. It would be a lot harder to get in a good roll position wearing them. I know this because when I took the intro to whitewater kayaking class I tried wearing a diving wetsuit and when I flipped I could hardly get into position to pull the spray skirt to swim.

Just more food for thought if you figure out how to keep them from flooding.

Kyle

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I smell bacon

Posted By: BrianP
Date Posted: 24 Mar 2011 at 3:16pm

Now I'm second guessing the choice to purchase dry pants..anyways, I've never seen chest waders being used for paddling, but I've heard many stories of duck hunters and fishermen drowning from flooded waders. I've personally fallen over and flooded them (luckily it was shallow)..not easy to get out of and they become an anchor.

Posted By: KBfree
Date Posted: 24 Mar 2011 at 5:53pm

I used bibs with ankle gaskets and a dry top for several years in the winter. I took many swims and would only get slightly wet in certain areas around my ankle or chest.

I saw the same bibs for sale down in Portland this weekend at Next Adventure.... I think they were only around $100-$120. They have a great new paddle store down there and might be available online.

About the waders... I don't have any personal experience with them... but if something is as good at keeping water out, it would also be good at keeping water in.

This sport requires specific clothing to keep you safe. The bibs I am referring to had a double tunnel you could roll up into the dry top... The waders I'm guessing wouldn't have anything like that.

My $.02

Kirk

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Kirk B

Posted By: ENDO
Date Posted: 24 Mar 2011 at 9:25pm

thanks all, just curious.

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