On 8-Mar-2005, "BCITORGB" wrote:

I suppose I'll have to look at poly or fleece type options. For the
summer months around here (Vancouver and the Gulf Islands) I'm guessing
that all my cotton stuff will do, as the temperatures -- air and water
-- seem to be relatively warm (from June to October, I think, but I'll
ask around).

MEC stocks some decent polyester quick-dry Tees and stuff. Better than
polypro as it doesn't tend to stink as much when worn a short time.
In fact, check out all the paddling wear at MEC once the spring/summer
stock is in.

I usually wear swimming trunks (MEC quick dry shorts) and a long sleeved
Powerdry top under an FJ most of the time. Only when it's hot enough to
skip an FJ do I wear a short sleeved polyester Tee. I find that the wind
over water gets just chilly enough to want long sleeves most of the time.

I don't know that the cotton is ever a good idea. I've never heard anyone
describe the BC coast as having particularly warm water. You have to dress
more for immersion than for the air, unless you have a bombproof roll and
paddle in a group.

Mike