I don't know of a bombproof rain jacket that won't cost more than your canoe. Either, it's waterproof and you sweat like bullets or it's not really waterproof. Plus, I hate bringing an extra article of clothing that I'll rarely use.

I stopped bringing a rain coat and just bring a heavy wool pullover ($60) and wool cap. It'll shed light rain, and will still keep me warm in a down pour. Afterall, rain jackets are more of a matter of keeping you warm, not dry. At night it's my pillow.

In May and October I always bring a heavy wool shirt as well. I've been on trips were it poured rained for seven days (even snowed) and I'll I had was that wool pullover. I did fine in my wool pullover and wool hat.

Posted by paddlenorth on April 18, 2001 at 17:57