April 10, 2005

Winter Stiffness

After having a morning coffee, on a whim I decided to go to Mason Neck for a bit of practice. I had noticed the water temps in the lower 60s on the Potomac, so I figured this would be a good chance to try out my new wet suit.

As an XXL, I figured I'd have plenty of room. But what I found was it certainly wasn't someone very tall. It fit snugly - I guess like it should, but I felt like my crotch was being pulled toward my shoulders. Hopefully it will stretch a bit with time.

On shore two kayaks paddled up as I was departing. They too were wearing wet suits and I asked about the water temp. They said I'd be burning up.

Once on the water a laid over to cool off. The water running down my back got my attention. As I paddled toward Kanes Creek I just couldn't get comfortable. At the creek I turned around and headed back trying to edge the kayak over but I felt stiff. I was disappointed in how shaky and stiff I was so I spent the entire paddle back weaving to the left and right as I edged over as far as my stiff body and new wet suit would allow.

The water is a creamy brown from all the rain in the last week. I beached to make a run back up to the car to grab my nose plugs then get back on the water to do a few rolls.

The first one sent a lot of cool water down my spine and I was in a hurry to get back up! A couple of high braces, rolls on both sides and a few hanging draws. It felt good to play again like this without the ice cream headaches from icy water.

But I remained disappointed in my edging. My bow rudders were suffering because of the edging and I'll need to spend a bit more time getting it back where it should be. Another 5 degrees in water temp and a pair of shorts will make it easier ;)

Woody