I am looking for an insulated splash top for these days when it is under 50 degrees in the morning and the water is still warm enough to make a wet suit or dry suit overkill. It is often above 70 degrees by afternoon making layering and stripping down without beaching a PITA.
I currently have a Level 6 Bonavista that is a great splash top, but offers no insulation. I have tried my wet suit top and my dry top, but they are to much for these changing conditions. Constant stripping in rough water or areas that beaching is not an easy option is getting old.
I feel like I have to pack a weeks worth of clothes for a 5 hour paddle, and my wifes’ understanding is getting thin in regard to washing kayak clothing. (for those that would suggest I wash it myself, I am not allowed, as I wash clothing “wrong”)
Does an insulated splash top with a neck that opens up for additional ventilation (no volcano neck) exist?
Doesn’t exist
It sounds more like you’re describing a zip up neoprene jacket with a base layer worn underneath. I’ve never seen a shell with built in insulation shy of yachting wear like by Mustang or some HH garb but those were never designed for sitting in a kayak. A storm cag over top your layer(s) & PDF might be an option. Easy enough to strip off when it becomes too warm.
See you on the water,
Marshall
The River Connection, Inc.
Hyde Park, NY
www.the-river-connection.com
hudsonriverpaddler.org
NRS
they have a neo jacket that zips.
Like a cag
I have a Lotus Skanorak - a zip-front paddling jacket that functions almost like a storm cag. It can be put on over a pfd while on the water - your base layer and the pfd itself function as significant insulation.
Most cags are pullover style, but this one zips, so can be opened fully to cool off. It can be easily stowed on-deck, has a fleece-lined neck, hood, big pockets, etc. The main difference from a storm cag is that it doesn't have a rand to go over the spray skirt.
It's discontinued, and there doesn't seem to be anything quite like it out there. I don't use mine any more, so if you're interested, drop me an email.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ?
Conditions you describe are pretty typical around here. I use a 2mm Oneil top and when I get hot I roll or splash water on myself.
NRS Sea Tour?
Or similar. Zips up so you can take it off and stuff it in your day hatch. Not insulated but it still keeps you warmer.
Or if you want to make a bigger change that would require taking off the PFD and putting it back while in your boat, a neo zip up top. Mountain Surf at least used to make them. Just checked and NRS has them as well, long sleeve.
There is also the roll (or scull) option proposed by seadart. If you make that 50 degrees the water, the 20 plus temperature range you describe is very like offshore Maine in the summer. We have found that dressing for the water and dunking on a regular basis works well.
Looking at NRS and Level 6
The prices are getting close to dry top prices, so I may just dress for immersion and roll.