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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/swim-dress-for-water-temperature

Going kayaking or paddle boarding on a warm day with cold water, what should you dress for?

The water temperature, not the air temperature.

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  1. The water temperature ✔
  2. The air temperature
  3. Whatever looks good in photos

Why: If you fall in, the water decides how cold you get. The National Weather Service says to dress for the water temperature and always wear a life jacket.

Huh, didn't know that: The NWS says a person's core temperature can keep dropping even after they get out of cold water.

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Why did the kayak go to school? It wanted to be a little more well-rowed.
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References

Answer: The water temperature. If you fall in, the water decides how cold you get. The National Weather Service says to dress for the water temperature and always wear a life jacket.

  1. National Weather Service: Cold Water Safety www.weather.gov/safety/coldwater
    Always dress for water temperature, not for air temperature.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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