Top Tips for Fall Paddling in DC
Autumn is one of our favorite times to paddle. Water temperatures are still relatively warm, the sun still heats up by mid-day, and there’s a lot less traffic on the water. Our paddling generally slows down come this time of year - races are over in our area and we teach fewer classes, especially for beginners. But with more free time on our hands, we find ourselves paddling more frequently “just for fun.” (Okay, all paddling is fun, but you know what we mean here.)
Fall weather is so variable in the mid-Atlantic, so we’ve compiled some tips for the two main phases of the season - beginning and middle to end.
Beginning. (read: the weather’s drunk and it’s still reasonably warm out)
Are September and October even really fall? The first day of the season may have been Sept. 23 but let’s be real, it still felt like summer for awhile there (we had 90 degree weather a few weeks ago, for goodness’ sake!). And that’s precisely what makes this the perfect time of year to hop on a board. Warmer water temps mean you don’t have to worry about covering your feet with booties quite yet, and as a long as the sun is shining, you still get some warm afternoon hours without the cold chill. Combine this with less paddling traffic (area boat houses will soon close shop for the remainder of the year) and it’s a recipe for some superb SUPing in our area. Here’s what you you should consider:
Layer up! Expect some inconsistent temperatures while you’re out on the water, even if it’s for a few hours. Wear things that you can take off or put on easily depending on that air temperature. You know your body best. The two of us have completely different tolerances for hot and cold water and weather. In fact, just last week while paddling in North Carolina we both started with similar layers and one of us (can you guess who?) was down to their base layer by the time we got off the water.
Bring a dry bag. You can store your extra clothing there.
Don’t forget a light. If you’re paddling later in the day, don’t forget the sun drops a lot sooner and seemingly faster than in the summer. U.S. Coast Guard regulations require you to have a light on you if you’re paddling after sunset, but why wait that long to activate your safety equipment? Turn that sucker on around dusk!
Middle to end. (read: starting to feel more like winter every damn day)
No matter the season, we tell people to dress for the immersion. Sure, you expect to stay on your board, but it’s best to be prepared for whatever the water and its conditions will bring. The later you paddle into the fall season, the cooler the water temperatures are going to be. You’ve got to be prepared for that with not just more layers, but the right kind/material. Here are some tips:
Neoprene is your best friend. ‘Tis the season for neoprene protection, especially for your feet and hands. Booties and gloves will go a long way in keep you comfy on the (much cooler by now) water.
Keep warm, dry clothes at the take out. You’re already dressing for the immersion, but don’t forget to be ready to change into something warm and dry post-paddle. Even if you’ve stayed dry out there, nothing feels better than peeling off your layers in exchange for something soft and cozy.
Think outside the neoprene box. Don’t forget other important layers, like beanies and windbreakers. The latter can go a long way in keeping you warm just by providing a little extra protection from the wind. We actually keep a few cheap versions (think $4 from the Goodwill) with our paddling gear year-round to have on-hand for students during classes and for ourselves when weather conditions look a little variable in the shoulder months.
Does your SUP season stop at summer’s end or do you keep paddling into the cooler months? What tips do you have for fall paddling in our area? We’d love to hear - comment below!
