Paddling Gear For Women

Kokatat's MsFIT & Pro MsFit (right) Rescue Vests are designed specifically for women. The MsFit features a verticle front zipper, superior anatomical fit and comfort, and expandable mesh pocket. The Pro-MsFit also has the verticle front zipper, a top loading duplex pocket and is equipped with a quick release chest belt, tether/tow system ready. Kokatat's women's water sportswear is designed with a shorter sleeve and torso length, longer rise between waist and crotch, fuller cut in hips and thighs, narrower shoulders and a drop seat option is available in the drysuits. Ph: 1-800-225-9749,Email: kokatat@kokatat.com, Web: www.kokatat.com (Kokatat means "into the water" in the language of the Native people of the Klamath River)

Mustang offers the unique inflatable AirForce vest, a comfortable, lightweight lifevest which provides maximum mobility with minimum bulk. Available in manual (approved by CCG) and automatic models. Ph: 604-270-8631, Email: mustang@mustangsurvival.com, Web: www.mustangsurvival.com

Mountain Equipment Co-op has a variety of women's gear, made in Canada:

. 3mm Farmer Jane wetsuit, with internal zipper flap to prevents water flow, heavy duty YKK zipper for durability, ankle zippers for easy entry and exit, and Durashin for lower leg protection. Double glued and mauser taped for comfort with lifetime seam. (see photo on the right)

. Women's Surf Skin Sport Top, a combination of fuzzy rubber and Durastretch, allows a low profile fit that stretches with you as you plant those paddle strokes. Surf Skin presents a wind and water-proof face to the outside world and a comfy fleece lining next to your skin.

. Squall Paddling Jacket Drytop, Technyl ripstop nylon coated with 1.5 oz. polyurethane and finished with a teflon DWR, Neoprene, velcro. The collar front features die-cut velcro tabs on both sides allowing the positioning of comfortable neoprene against the throat, where it can seal snugly yet softly. When unfastened the collar falls forward and wide open for maximum ventilation. The cord-lock on the waistband is anchored to allow single-handed adjustment. The zip front mesh pocket features a key clip. Horizontally articulated sleeves for mobility when paddling. Neoprene cuffs stretch and feature plush outer faces to allow a wide range of adjustment with velcro closing tabs. Contact MEC at 604-732-1989, Web: www.mec.ca

White's Tempest Jane (farmer jane wetsuit) is anatomically designed to fit a woman's body. It has pre-curved legs, easy-entry super-stretch ankle gusset, tough front zipper and non-chaffing flatlock seams. Available in custom made to measure. Matching jacket available. 250-652-8554 Email: whites@whitescoldwater.com, Web: www.whitescoldwater.com

Aqua Quest Dry Bag: Reef Thermal Hydro 10L Drybag. Lightweight, durable and affordable. Padded nylon bag with thermal insulate-keeps contents hot/cold. 100% waterproof. Velcro and fold closed, for secure seal. Includes carrying strap. Good for kayaker, canoeist, hiker. Manufacturer guaranteed. 604-824-4336, Email: sales@venture quest.net, Web: www.venturequest.net

Natural West Coast Adventure Gear, operated and owned by Wanda McCannell, is a sister company of Natural West Coast Adventures, an instruction, tour and rentals business in White Rock and Victoria. Through past experience as a guide/instructor, Wanda knows that good gear, like the proper skills and instructions, is a foundation of safe paddling. The ability to custom manufacture gear to suit colour preference, size and other functional characteristics is the key to the uniqueness of the business. Contact: nwca@kayak.bc.ca or call 250-391-0331 (Victoria), 604-535-7985 (Lower mainland)