Winter Paddling Protocols for Kayaks and Canoes

Revised by the Safety Committee and approved by NBCB board on December 15, 2025

Cold weather paddling season is when water and air temperatures combined are less than 120 degrees or the water is less than 60 degrees Fahrenheit. We gauge the water temperature at the Battery (scroll down to water temp).

When canoeing or kayaking in winter conditions, trip leaders and all participants must be

  1. an intermediate to advanced paddler

  2. complete the Winter Paddling Safety class.

All NBCB paddlers must follow the following protocols:

  • Above 60 degrees water temperature:

    • If the combined air + water temperature is less than 120 degrees, thermal protection of some kind is required (either drysuit, semi-drysuit or wetsuit).

  • Between 55 - 60 degrees water temperature:

    • Drysuits are recommended

    • Semi-drysuits are allowed

    • Wetsuits are allowed

      • Neoprene must be a minimum of 3mm thickness

      • Full wetsuits are recommended, but farmer john/janes are permitted

  • Below 55 degrees water temperature:

    • Drysuits are required, no exceptions

  • Base layers under drysuits must be synthetic or wool; no cotton is allowed.

  • Only foam PFDs, no inflatable PFDs allowed.

  • In addition to the usual trip safety equipment, Trip Leaders are required to carry extra safety gear during winter trips:

    • Extra insulated hat & gloves available to lend out to trip participants

    • An emergency blanket

    • A hot beverage/thermos is encouraged

  • This policy applies to NBCB trips (canoes and kayaks) at any location.