Why base layers matter
A drysuit or drytop is just a waterproof shell. On its own, it doesn't insulate — it just stops water from getting in. The warmth comes entirely from what you wear underneath. Get the layering right, and you'll stay warm through a cold day on the water. Get it wrong, and even the best drysuit won't save you from being cold.
How to think about layering
- Base layer, next to skin — moves sweat away from your body so you stay dry from the inside, not just the outside
- Mid layer, for warmth — fleece or a thicker synthetic layer, added or removed based on how cold the day actually is
- Your dry top or drysuit goes over everything — sealing it all in and keeping outside water from ever reaching your insulation
You don't need to buy the heaviest layer you can find — you need the right layer for the conditions, and the flexibility to add or remove pieces as the day changes. A thinner layer on a milder day and a thicker one for genuinely cold water is a better system than one heavy layer worn year-round.
Come find the right combination
The right layering setup depends on the water temperature, the air temperature, and how much you run hot or cold personally — there's no single right answer for everyone. Stop in and we'll help you put together a system that actually matches the conditions you're paddling in, not just what looks warmest on the shelf.
