Paddling jacket vs dry top. If anyone has any advice to offer I would really appreciate it. May 20, 2025 · Today, we look at the BEST Drysuits for Kayaking. Oct 7, 2021 · A paddling jacket is many things, not the most useful description. Gore-Tex®is 100% waterproof Apr 2, 2025 · Overall The NRS Paddling Jacket for Men is a practical and tough layer for recreational and budget-conscious paddlers. I will take a crack at it. Immersion wear for flatwater kayaking. When paired with the dry pants it gives you essentially a dry suit that will work in all by the gnarliest whitewater conditions. Shop top brand men's, women's, and kids' splash jackets for kayaking and paddling. Am I correct? The 'paddle jacket' you have there is actually just a S/S semidry top. Explore dry tops and dry pants built for kayaking, rafting, and paddle sports. So there you have it, the five best paddling tops I use whether I'm sea kayaking, whitewater kayaking, rec kayaking, stand-up paddling or rafting…anything. I've seen Kokatat Hydrus and IR dry tops for around $300 on sale, full Kokatat Goretex dry tops appear to be $500ish. But I don’t understand Shop raft, kayak and camping gear, SUPs, paddling apparel for men, women & kids and river supplies with the NRS Rock Solid Guarantee and Free Shipping. 5 fabric, our line of mens’s dry tops, dry bottoms and bibs are designed to be unmatched in fit, dryness and breathability. British latex wrist & neck gaskets with gasket protectors provide the best kayaking experience. It should be fine for summer boating, though really I'd prefer a longsleeve drytop just because I can use it year-round, and it will be slightly dryer. The overlapping double-tunnel & the dual-cinch system waist works with a kayak skirt to provide a drier seal. These are pretty comfortable and give good protection May 29, 2007 · Try a paddling jacket (ie, a splash top or a semi-dry top). In contrast to dry tops, most paddle jackets do not have latex gaskets. Dry wear, on the other hand, will keep you dry when fully immersed. The waist has a pull-type closure with a clasp. Feb 15, 2015 · I've seen it measured in mm before, but more to the point I think he is just saying ~2mm as a rough guide to how much/many insulating layers he is wearing. This seals out splashes pretty well,and can be opened for venting heat. com What's the point of paddling jackets/dry-tops? It's February and snowing, let's talk cold water safely! I was recently drysuit shopping (for the record I did buy a full drysuit), and see that a lot of places also sell paddling jackets and dry tops. I find the dry suit gaskets uncomfortable and a pain in the ass from a maintenance perspective. Its value lies in its simplicity and reliability—perfect for those who want solid performance without overpaying. Gore-Tex®: The original (and in my opinion, the best) waterproof breathable fabric. We also recommend wearing warm, non-cotton layers under your dry top for the best protection from the cold. See all here! Sep 4, 2020 · There's long sleeve versions of this too, and they’re also great under your splash top or dry top, as they allow for a nice buffer between your dry top and your skin. Lightweight sup-specific dry suits aren't as durable, but are lighter. I assume this rang… Dec 9, 2007 · I think I understand the difference between splash wear and dry wear. If it’s stupid cold winter boating I will wear the dry suit. While it won’t replace a full dry top for intense conditions, it offers just enough protection to keep most river runners dry and happy. If you end up swimming, you'll probably want neoprene/hydroskin type May 13, 2010 · here’s my take on it. Nov 17, 2023 · Level Six Duke Dry Top review for whitewater kayaking and for sea kayaking. I typically prefer a farmer John wetsuit and a splash jacket over my dry suit. Oct 17, 2024 · Stay warm and dry with Paddling Magazine's top picks for kayakers, canoeists, paddleboarders and whitewater boaters. I would be sticking to a sheltered lake or other calm, close to shore conditions during cold seasons. 5mm Neoprene paddling jacket advice DesertDave May 12, 2010, 4:14am #2 here’s my take on it. Sep 26, 2008 · What is the difference between a Splash or paddling jacket and a dry top? Which would you recommend for kayaking class 1 & 2 rivers with the possibility of a class 3… And what other clothing gear for winter paddling? Thanks Andy_Szymczak September 26, 2008, 7:37pm #2 Dry Suit in Winter Dress for water temps. No latex, assuming your paddle jacket isn’t a dry top… Jan 21, 2022 · I own a full size Kokatat Meridan dry suit (Gore-tex). Didn't see any recent conversations on here, so thought I would post this for others who may be having similar thoughts. My paddle jacket is fine for plain old paddling, but it does a great job of catching water and holding it inside when I roll. Pores on generation 2 stuff could clog but we are in generation 3 ro 4 these days and it works pretty well. It works fine as raingear, or to shed an occasional splash of water, but it’s totally inadequate as immersion protection - because if you capsize, water immediately floods in. Dry top - Protects fully against water getting to you from any place covered by the dry top, including a water-tight neck Feb 16, 2015 · 17C = 62F, downright balmy! Looking at 20" of ice at the moment so 62 degrees F sounds downright summer like. If you don't plan on paddling in cold water/weather then you may be able to get away with a semi-dry provided you don't flip much and layer underneath it. The reviews posted here reflect the real-world experiences of outdoor enthusiasts Jun 4, 2006 · Here’s my question: I tend to limit my rolling practice to a warm inland lake, since I get cold in my farmer john wetsuit/hydroskin/paddle jacket combo when I roll in Lake Superior along the shoreline. In warm weather, a short-sleeve dry top is much cooler, but still protects your core from wind and water. It provides very limited protection if you’re rolling around and practicing skills. I have both what I consider paddling jackets and dry tops, though some would call my dry top ‘semi-dry’. Recently got a Brooks Tuilik that is mass cool, and I’m gonna surf with it. Jan 30, 2011 · Professor Paddle: Dry top/bottom Vs. A dry suit provides immersion protection in the event you end up in the water. Paddle jacket, splash jacket, splash top they go by many names and are used interchangeably for the same product, but they all share a similar purpose: keep you drier and warmer. If you swim, it isn't going to be dry unless it is really well mated with a bottom - many swear that the Kokatat bib system can be dry if you take the time to get the top and bottom mated really well. I assume this rang… Shop for Paddling Clothing at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. The Duke is a 3-season paddling dry top made from lightweight eXhaust 2. I assume this rang… Visit Australia's largest canoe and kayak store. I assume this rang… I live in Virginia and would like to keep paddling through the whole year, or at least most of it. Oct 1, 2021 · Did some more digging on Kokotat and NRS websites and I get the difference between a paddling jacket and a dry suit/top now. If you have ever owned a 3 Layer Gore-Tex®jacket you know what I’m talking about. Contact us to discuss your needs. Almost any kind of top that purports to be at least partially protective against water, from not much to a more fitted garments with neoprene or latex gaskets that are much drier. What features you need to keep an eye out for, the differences between drysuits and wetsuits and Oct 1, 2021 · Is a paddling jacket effectively a dry suit top? I certainly see the utility of a two piece and I’m leaning that way, just need to wrap my head around the price jump from the one piece I was looking at. Dry top - Protects fully against water getting to you from any place covered by the dry top, including a water-tight neck Shop men's and women's kayak dry tops by top brands NRS, Kokatat, Level 6, and more. May 13, 2008 · One of the places that paddling is actually literal - Splash top - Protects against water that splashes up while paddling. Australia-wide delivery. I assume this rang… Oct 1, 2021 · I own a full size Kokatat Meridan dry suit (Gore-tex). May 12, 2010 · In cool weather, a long-sleeve dry top provides good protection. So make sure what May 30, 2007 · Try a paddling jacket (ie, a splash top or a semi-dry top). How we test: Trailspace is powered entirely by our community of readers. I find that wearing a splash jacket even on hot days helps me paddle more aggressively and avoid cringing away from the waves. Would a farmer john and neoprene gasket jacket be Apr 6, 2021 · River outerwear On most days, if you’re paddling an inflatable kayak (IK) or a stand-up paddleboard (SUP), you’ll likely want a waterproof outer layer. Sep 17, 2004 · I've read a lot of the archived and recent postings regarding a dry suit vs. Spray Jacket Whitewater Dry Tops,Semi Dry Tops,Customised For Rafting Paddling Jacket Vs Dry Top This drysuit guide will keep you warm and dry when paddling—we go over when to wear one, how to select the right one, and how to keep one in. I assume this rang… Dec 11, 2012 · I use a dry top and dry pants here in Colorado, and it works great. To be classed as a semi-dry top, a jacket should have a double waist (two layers of fabric; one goes inside your spraydeck and the other over the top) and latex seals at the wrists. com, where you'll find premium outdoor gear and clothing and experts to guide you through selection. I assume this rang… Sep 9, 2022 · I own a full size Kokatat Meridan dry suit (Gore-tex). Our top picks are those that are readily-available in the United States and have received the highest overall ratings from reviewers. Choose a white water style jacket for the ultimate protection for those planning on taking on rapids and surf. So I guess I understand the value of having a splash top in weather that’s not too cold, as long as you don’t go in. NRS Men's Stratos Semi-Dry Paddling Jacket $19995 FREE delivery Mon, Jul 14 Or fastest delivery Sat, Jul 12 A long sleeve paddle jacket built like a dry top with a neoprene neck band and latex wrists covered with neoprene wrist cuffs. GORE-TEX is the world’s most advanced material for paddlesports use on whitewater rivers and oceans. a dry top and some form of bottoms. See all here! Did some more digging on Kokotat and NRS websites and I get the difference between a paddling jacket and a dry suit/top now. So this tends to be fairly tight at the wrist near the water but has a looser neck since splashing water will generally hit your chest and sides. Aug 5, 2019 · The Duke is a 3-season paddling dry top constructed from our lightweight eXhaust 2. May 30, 2007 · Try a paddling jacket (ie, a splash top or a semi-dry top). Sep 11, 2022 · I own a full size Kokatat Meridan dry suit (Gore-tex). I paddle in New england, Usually year round, and own a goretex dry suit and a waterproof breathable dry top (entrant perhaps) Makes s difference. Andy system September 26, 2008, 8 Sep 9, 2022 · I own a full size Kokatat Meridan dry suit (Gore-tex). I assume this range of suits is all about matching protection to water temperature conditions. 5-ply waterproof breathable nylon and features a cut that gives you a completely unrestricted range-of-movement. I have both what I consider paddling jackets and dry tops, though some would call May 13, 2008 · One of the places that paddling is actually literal - Splash top - Protects against water that splashes up while paddling. The overlapping double-tunnel and the dual-cinch system (DCS) waist work with your skirt tunnel to provide you with a drier seal and better paddling experience. If you roll, it is better to have neck and wrist Try a paddling jacket (ie, a splash top or a semi-dry top). I tried comparing dry and semi-dry tops out paddling and surfing, as well as standing in the shower to see if any water would get in one vs the other. But do the separates keep one as dry as a full suit? Do paddlers use the shorter separates just to How we choose: The best paddle jackets highlighted here were selected based on 3 reviews of 3 products. When I go paddling, my jacket is carried all the time even if the weather is warm {it changes fast when a storm comes for a visit} I like vent Apparel Men’s Technical Apparel Dry Wear Men’s Dry Wear From top-of-the-line GORE-TEX Pro materials to the well-loved and time-tested HyproTex 2. What is the best dry top out there for the money in your experience? Thanks in advance! A waterproof, 3-season unisex paddling jacket, featuring Level Six's breathable eXhaust Ultralight Recycled membrane, with an adjustable hood, and latex-free wrists and neck Cover yourself with the main and most versatile kinds of paddling outerwear needed to stay comfortable on the water. Jul 5, 2019 · I own a full size Kokatat Meridan dry suit (Gore-tex). This is both good and bad. 1. May 29, 2007 · Try a paddling jacket (ie, a splash top or a semi-dry top). If you end up swimming, you'll probably want neoprene/hydroskin type Dec 8, 2005 · A paddling jacket provides no immersion protection – water just flows right in – and a dry top should seal pretty thoroughly, subject to the normal limitation of a seal at the waist. This might help as background info for those thinking about calmer or warmer situations where a full dry suit isn't absolutely mandatory. It is equipped with all features that ensure the most comfortable wearing experience while keeping you dry and not restricting your movements. Nov 13, 2007 · I dislike the feel of dry suits, so use neoprene pants or shorts with a dry top. Imagine with the wetsuit, if you went kayaking more than one day at a time you'd be putting on that cold icky rubber every morning We stock an extensive range of paddling tops for kayaking, canoeing and other paddle sports. Jan 8, 2008 · From reading numerous posts on this site, it seems that the two dominant choices for extending your paddle season when the water is cold are to either pay a pretty stiff price for a dry suit or wear a farmer john and a dry top or paddle jacket. Whether a set of bibs or pants. Jan 5, 2015 · New Year’s Day, after running to the water with my kayak on a cart in a farmer john, neoprene top, dry pants and drytop, I simply rolled my kayak a few times to cool down. Dry tops will keep your upper body dry under most conditions. I assume this rang… Jun 13, 2022 · The Kokatat Supernova semi-dry suit is a great alternative to less comfortable wetsuits and paddling jackets. And of course, if it’s raining or chilly, keeping dry is the easiest way to stay warm. There will be some obvious circumstances for some boaters that make the decision easy, such as for those who almost always paddle in cold water, or Get a dry top. We stock well-known quality brands from Australia and the world. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Where I used to wear a dry top, poly shirt and farmer john for 55degree water and 55 degree air I started wearing a neoprene vest with the farmer john as the polyshirt and paddle jacket didn't provide adequate neck/armpit/core insulation when immersed. The driest and most breathable dry top is the Kokatat GoreTex Pro OM Dry Top, but for budget minded we also carry the Kokatat Hydrus Stoke Drytop which is made out of waterproof/breathable Hydrus 3-layer fabric. A paddling jacket is annoyingly wet, a drytop is dry. Nothing matches GORE-TEX for durability, breathability, and waterproof dependability for rafting, kayaking, or paddling. But I noticed that several manufacturers make full size dry and semi dry suits plus separate tops and bottoms. Not sure what you are referring to When you say breathable splash top, are you referring to a Gore-tex (or other breathable fabric) paddle jacket without gaskets? When you referred to your seals blowing out, where you describing latex seals on a dry top? For spring time whitewater kayaking I often preferred wearing a Gore-tex dry top with latex gaskets over either a shorty wetsuit, or a farmer (I doubt you would actually be able to find a paddling drysuit in any of the shops. Personal tolerances will dictate but is dry suiting going to be a sauna experience for the OP on a sunny 62 degree day (17C)? If I’m paddling I’d be going the route of paddle jacket plus base layer, maybe 2mm neo for rolling. I'm curious about this sub's opinion of them. Many are actually only semi-dry suits that use neoprene-only gaskets instead of latex and/or sealed feet. Sep 15, 2022 · A paddling jacket is many things, not the most useful description. These are pretty comfortable and give good protection May 12, 2010 · I'm looking at either a dry top or a paddling jacket. Shop the best selection of paddling clothing at Backcountry. I have both what I consider paddling jackets and dry tops, though some would call I'm looking at either a dry top or a paddling jacket. As I understand it the difference is that a dry top is just more waterproof than a paddling jacket. Mate it with a farmer john neoprene suit and you are all but covered with the exception of November through March paddling in the PNW. I have both what I consider paddling jackets and dry tops, though some would call May 13, 2010 · I'm looking at either a dry top or a paddling jacket. Does that mean dry top and pants, or rain jacket and pants like those sold by Columbia and the like? NRS builds GORE-TEX Pro dry suits and dry wear. Plus you can mix and match the pieces as needed/desired. Paddling jacket. Of course, in most conditions you could use a wet suit and paddle jacket. Splash wear keeps you more-or-less dry when water splashes on you but won’t keep you dry if you take a swim. Includes things like zip up oversized jackets that you can pull on over the pfd in case of surprise rain May 29, 2007 · Try a paddling jacket (ie, a splash top or a semi-dry top). I use a kokatat Gore-Tex PacLite Paddling Jacket when I don't want to mess with my drysuit (ie, warmer, calmer, or shallower water). The dry gasket neck is much more user friendly for rolling and basically being more in the water. The gaskets on semi-dry tops keep out some water, but if you do find yourself repeatedly flipped and drenched in Jun 23, 2023 · Layer your dry top with a spray skirt if you’re kayaking or a pair of dry pants for a fully dry experience (unless you swim). What material should my paddling dry suit be made from? Drysuits for paddling are generally made from one of three materials: Gore-Tex®, other waterproof-breathable fabrics or Coated nylon. I have both what I consider paddling jackets and dry tops, though some would call May 12, 2010 · A dry top is only dry if you stay in your boat (successfully roll up) and the mating with the skirt tunnel is fairly tight. Over 40 years experience. Even short sleeve tops and trunks. I plan to get a dry suit eventually, but don't have the money for something better than a level six which I've heard gets leaky pretty quickly. ) Once I return to Canada (probably in about a year) I would be using my drysuit/top for sea kayaking and I plan to also keep up the whitewater kayaking. May 13, 2010 · I'm looking at either a dry top or a paddling jacket. A paddling jacket is basically just for protection from splash and spray while you’re paddling. A “paddling jacket” or “splash top” is made out of waterproof material, but it’s definitely not watertight. My sea kayaking is generally restricted to relatively calm conditions in good weather so a drysuit is not needed. Semi-dry tops have a more robust sealing system, preventing more water from getting into your jacket. See full list on kayakguru. I'm a little confused about what is meant by "waterproof" jacket and pants. 5-ply waterproof breathable nylon. Semi-dry tops are cheaper than dry tops, but its really a question of what you need the top to do for you and your comfort. Try a paddling jacket (ie, a splash top or a semi-dry top). It seems the consensus is that a dry suit is really a better way to go all around. Get free shipping on orders over $49 in the contiguous US. If you end up swimming, you'll probably want neoprene/hydroskin type May 12, 2010 · here’s my take on it. Oct 1, 2021 · I own a full size Kokatat Meridan dry suit (Gore-tex). Drysuit?! Shoulder season is coming quickly, so a dry top seems like the way to go. The thing that seams to keep folks from going that route is the cost. Choose a touring style jacket for recreational paddling, touring, sea kayaking and kayak fishing. 5-layer hydrophobic polyester face fabric stays lighter, dries faster, breathes better, and prevents condensation. Breathable, waterproof dry wear keeps you protected in cold weather. I have all of my skiing base layers (merino wool) that should work well under a dry suit for insulation. The vent-able neck is much more user friendly for paddling. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. Mar 1, 2012 · How would you compare the Stohlquist Bpod with the Kokatat GFE (Gore-tex front entry)? Durability? Comfort? Effectiveness? Cost? I’ve heard good things about the Stohlquist neoprene neck opening (comfort-wise)vs the Kokatat latex gasket. Paddling Tops These are water-resistant jackets for those who don't need the robust protection of a dry top, which is designed for full submersion. Sep 15, 2022 · I own a full size Kokatat Meridan dry suit (Gore-tex). Feb 16, 2020 · Dry suits and paddling jackets are designed for two different purposes. I have both and never wear the dry jacket. Jan 9, 2012 · If you have a decent roll and paddle in conditions in which the air temperature is warm and the water is a bit cool, I find a dry top much more comfortable than a dry suit, however. The paddling jackets have adjustable sleeves and necks, using velcro to tighten the fit. Includes things like zip up oversized jackets that you can pull on over the pfd in case of surprise rain Sep 9, 2022 · A paddling jacket is a very important piece of gear. May 12, 2010 · A dry top is only dry if you stay in your boat (successfully roll up) and the mating with the skirt tunnel is fairly tight. When surfing in the HP boat it’s a one piece top spray deck combo from Peak UK. Typically these are light weight 1 or 2 layer jackets designed to prevent water from soaking your upper body. . This a follow up to a video I did where I talked about differences that you may find in dry and semi-dry suits. Sea Paddling it’s an Extrasport Xpert Flex Plus with neo shorts or pants. A full drysuit comes with a latex neck gasket while a semi drysuit comes with a neoprene neck gasket. Free shipping on orders over $49 in the contiguous US. Lightweight 2.