2014 CanYou Canoe: Equipment and Clothing Check List
Hello, CanYou Canoe participants! Thank you for joining us for our third year! In preparation for the big
day, we are supplying you with the following checklist for the day of the event. One of the biggest
things we want our participants to know is you should be prepared to get wet and possibly swim!
Although the event is held in early September the weather could be windy, cool, and of course wet. Do
not wear cotton! It is dangerous in wet and cold conditions. Please read our note about clothing and
how to properly dress for wet and cold conditions. We want all our paddlers to be safe and warm!
Most importantly, please make sure to bring something warm to put on at the rest stops. After being
active, participants can cool down quickly at rest stops. We will have space blankets available but your
own warm jacket is better!
Note about clothing and how to properly layer clothing for outdoor events:
Layering clothing is very important during outdoor events. You can add layers if you get cold and
remove a layer if you get hot!
 Layering: It is recommended to have 2 to 3 base layers in addition to a wind layer, a waterproof
layer, and a t-shirt. For those who get cold easily, it is recommended you add another insulating
layer. It is important that all layers fit over one another comfortably.
 Notes about clothing materials:
 Cotton – absolutely NO cotton. Cotton absorbs and retains water. This is not a material
recommended for outdoor travel, especially during any paddling event.
 Wool – a natural material that is the best for backcountry travel. Wool wicks away moisture
from the skin and insulates when damp or wet. Wool is also heat resistant and will not melt
when placed by a fire to dry.
 Fleece – a synthetic material for wicking away moisture from the skin. It is bulkier, but lighter
than wool.
 Polypropylene – another synthetic material used as a base-layer for wicking wetness away from
skin.
Paddling clothing and other gear checklist
 Base Layer: polypropylene/other synthetic
material – long sleeve and short sleeve are
recommended
 Extra Layer for warmth – fleece top and
bottom
 Waterproof layer – spray jacket/dry suit
 Water shoes/sandals – no open toed shoes
 Sun hat – baseball cap
 Paddling gloves
 Extra fleece jacket and pants for rest-stops
 Knit hat for rest-stops
 2 Nalgene Water Bottles - filled
 Sunscreen
 Small personal First Aid Kit & personal
meds
 Dry bags – to help keep extra clothing dry
CYCC clothing checklist
Paddling equipment and other gear:
 Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation
Device (PFD)
 Whistle – must be attached to PFD
 Paddle
 Extra Paddle
 Pump/sponge/bailer
 Paddle Float & Tow Line
 VHF Radio (Optional)
 Leatherman & Repair Kit