What to Wear for Spring Rafting
Whitewater rafting in the early rafting season can be both exciting and cold. During spring rafting season, you will want to have the appropriate type of gear if you plan to raft in May or June. You want to be covered in key places and wear the right types of materials to ensure the trip is enjoyable, rather than cold and miserable. Layers are key in any type of cold weather, but in spring rafting, synthetic is the way to go.
The base layer is vital. You want to try your hardest to keep your core (upper body around your heart) warm and comfortable. Keep your core warm and the rest of your body will follow. Remember to never wear any type of cotton or cotton blended materials. Always go with synthetic materials for the highest level of comfort. A dry-fit layer is the best option, with a swimsuit coming in at a close second. Water socks are not a necessity but can come in handy if you feel like you will be uncomfortable with cold or wet feet.
Your second layer should be synthetic layer. Some people choose wool or silk, but I, personally, prefer wool. This is a necessity if you are rafting in the spring. Once you are cold it is kind of difficult to warm back up quickly. It does take some time to get back to a comfortable temperature, but it happens eventually, especially with the constant motion of rafting. Once again quick dry gear and dry fit gear are the best. You want to have a mid-weight gear to not wear yourself out in heavy weight gear.
Your next layer should be a wetsuit. This type of gear is provided by Colorado River Rentals on all guided tours, but if you are on your own it is very important to get a wetsuit. This suit can be worn with or without your second layer.
After your wetsuit layer, the next is a hard shell type of material, such as a splash guard. This is also provided by AVA but if you are on your own you want a completely weather and water proof hard shell to go over your under layers. A completely synthetic layer that can keep out the wind and water.
Some people like to also bring along a fleece layer to put on during rafting breaks in order to warm up quickly. Not necessary, but very helpful for those full day rafting trips.
If you are not rafting with Colorado River Rentals, make sure to get the right gear all around. If you do plan to raft with CRR, remember we provide the wetsuit, splash jacket, PFD and helmet! We also sell water socks. Don’t forget rafting with us or not, secure footwear is absolutely necessary and recommended for all people.