The PaddlerUK magazine September 2015 issue 4 | Page 88

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Reed Chillcheater Aquatherm Short Sleeve Dry Cag
https://www.chillcheater.com
By Scott Edwards

Almost all of us want to
paddle all year long; in
some places that’s very
possible in others it is
downright dangerous.
As long as there is
open water, one can
dress for the cold
water temperatures by
donning a good dry suit and
wearing suitable wicking layers
underneath. As many layers as
you’d like to keep you warm,
that’s pretty simple. During the
warm summer months, where
bodies of water warm to almost
bath tub temperatures, you’re going to
be more worried about sunburn, than you
are hypothermia.
There are though, those places where the air gets
warm, but the water never does. My personal
experience of this is in Maine, located in the very
northeast corner of the United States. A place so
beautiful that you cannot help but want to spend
every minute in your kayak exploring the rocky
coastlines, playing with the seals and dolphins.
However, whilst summer air temperatures in
Maine can range between 26-29 degrees Celsius
(80-85f) and above, the water temperature
averages are much lower at around 14.6 degrees
Celsius (58.3f).

Unpleasant situation

Photos:
Joseph Westrich

While that does give one ample time to affect
rescue before hypothermia sets in, it’s still pretty
cold. Add to that the North Atlantic’s strong
currents plus the ‘rock bound coast of Maine’ and
it adds up to an unpleasant situation.Your rescue
skills must be practiced in colder temperatures so
that you are prepared and your kit must reflect the
large drop in temperature from air to water.That is
where my friends at Reed Chillcheater come into
play and have provided the ‘shoulder season
solution,' the Chillcheater short sleeve dry cag.
First and foremost what I like about this product is
how truly comfortable it is. By using single, super
stretch, water-repellant neck and cuff seals, they
have eliminated the feeling of having ones
circulation cut off, while maintaining a watertight
seal.You also have the option of having an
adjustable neck opening as well. Reed’s
AquaTherm fabrics are also not as stiff as others,

making them feel less bulky as
well as being easier to get in
and out of. It presents the
best of both worlds,
protection from colder
water, whether it is in
cooler climates or
whether you are suffering
from cabin fever as the winter
recedes and you want to get
out onto the water before
anyone else!
The cag has a fully integrated
inner tunnel to ensure a good seal
between you and your spray deck,
which is also adjustable.The outer
shell features two tightening buckles to allow you
to adjust it for your comfort and fit.That is a very
important part of how Reed products are put
together.They have truly thought of the paddler’s
comfort, while not sacrificing the importance of
dry kit. I’ve worn both latex seals and Reed’s seals
and I must tell you I am a huge fan of the more
comfortable Reed seal. Despite not being as
constricting they keep water out exceedingly well. I
also like the fact that the cag is wind proof as well,
which keeps those early/late season bone chilling
winds out, allowing you to be both warm and dry.
As one would expect with anything from Reed,
the craftsmanship is top notch all the way around.
All the external seams are both stitched and taped
making this cag extremely watertight and strong.
The AquaTherm fabric is also very durable – it is
one of the things I envy about my paddling friends
on the other side of the pond. Reed Chillcheater
products can only be attained via overseas
shipping. However, in my experience it has always
been well worth it.

‘Boil in Bag’

My real concern was getting into my boat and
paddling. We have all experienced the ‘Boil in Bag’
feeling of dressing for the water while being in far
warmer air. I have to say I was pleased with how
the top performed in regard to breathability and
not overheating me.The ability to unzip the neck
when taking a break was priceless, allowing even
more air circulation.
This summer I had the opportunity to try the
short sleeved cag out in the waters off the coast
of Maine. Beautifully pleasant days but still
downright chilly water! I donned my cag and dry