Re footwear, do you want to keep your feet dry or just warm? A thick
pair of poly sox in neoprene booties will keep them warm enough, even
if they get wet. (I'm assuming that as a "recreational paddler" you
won't be out in the kind of weather some of us crazies paddle in). To
keep your feet dry, go for a pair of knee high mukluks. NRS makes some
nice ones, also Chota. These start at about $69, though.

Steve

You have some great information.
Dare we ask where you are??? What part of the world.
Water Temperature, air temp, reliability of the weather all dictate
what you wear.
Yesterday I was in full polypro with dry pants and a serious spray
jacket as we ducked around the coastline playing in surf. The precvious
week I was in sweat pants and a cotton shirt in a pond doing likely
what you are planning. ( footwear , Old sneakers )
My dry suit cost about $1,400.00 Canadian . If you are in the North
Atlantic that is needed ( It is at Kokotat for repairs right now too )
..
If you are comfortable and know you will not ruin expensive cloths in a
swim you are likely fine.
You can dump a tonne of cash on kayak stuff and need in in some
locations but I wear regular cloths and a PFD when I am doing what you
are suggesting.
What ever yo wear ask youreslf " Can I Swim in this.. ??? "
You should be fine.
Oh . Have fun!
Alex
http://pages.ivilage.com/mcgruer.com