Waders are for wading not swimming
What possible benefit are waders going to do for a paddler other than launching. You’re better off with high boots like Chotas for launching. You can’t swim with the waders and a slight current can drown you. You’re better off with jeans a sweatshirt and boots than waders. How about reentering a boat with waders full of water?
It’s the absolute wrong thing to wear especially considering you are gaining nothing from waders sitting in a kayak or canoe and… the big feet will be tight in a kayak.
I too know of a person who’s son died when his chest waders filled with water and the current knocked him over.
Well…
Just remember that if you end up in the water the splash top and layers will become irrelevant and you could die. Of course you could also die on the highway driving to the lake.
How about renting a wetsuit?
You don’t commit as much money to something you rarely use, and it’s safer than your approach.
Cheap Base Layer
For cold weather biking and kayaking I use a Walmart Starter brand undershirt. I think they run about $7 and work just fine. Been using it for years.
For kayaking this goes under the dry top or drysuit… not under neoprene.
chest waders
If you go in wearing chest waders, they may kill you. The air in the waders can be so buoyant that you may have to fight to keep your head up. Wear almost anything but waders.