Gym Shorts: Paddling in a big puddle

If you know me, you know I love the water. It’s one of the main reasons we moved to Kincardine five years ago. That big puddle called Lake Huron was one of the many key attractions. And yes, those gorgeous sunsets don’t disappoint either.

I like to swim as much as I like to bike. So, you will often find me down at Station Beach hanging out on the beach or in the water. In my first summer year here, I was a bit perplexed at how cold Lake Huron can be in May and June. But I caught on quickly with the locals. I noticed that people in or on the water on paddle-boards were wearing wetsuits in May.

I had a big hankering to get into that wonderful blue clear water. A wetsuit was the perfect answer to stave off the cold. I was properly outfitted with a wetsuit, along with gloves and boots, from the local store. I was off to beach and quickly found myself in the water. I was in my happy spot while my husband, Jim (not a water baby), just shook his head in disbelief as I went in. Wearing the wetsuit, I have no trouble getting in the water each May and June before it warms up.

May 25, this year, I was told the water temperature in Lake Huron was 10 degrees (it was a warm day). I went for an hour-long swim with a friend who also had on a wetsuit. It amazes me how the suit acts as an insulator so that when water gets in between the suit and your skin, it’s warm. Because of my arthritis, I got the thicker suit that can handle the really cold water. The suit did not disappoint. It kept everything warm and cozy – especially with my hands and feet.



Kim Dixon swimming in Lake Huron, May 26, 2024

After the cold lake water penetrates the wetsuit, you feel the cold on your skin for only a few minutes. However, the water will gradually reach your body temperature so that you can stay warm inside your neoprene wetsuit. So, the wearer is always wet — that’s why it’s called a wetsuit. Wetsuits work by trapping a thin layer of warm water between your body and the suit. This prevents you from losing too much heat in the water.

A lightweight long wetsuit will keep a surfer warm and comfortable up to a water temperature of 14 degrees Celsius. Below this temperature, a thicker neoprene wetsuit should be used.

I also took up paddle-boarding two years ago. Well, for me it more like “waddle” boarding and I also do a poor version of surf-boarding. I do not like to stand, as it is more challenging on the knees due to my knee replacements. I like to sit and paddle, or lie down and hand paddle on that puppy. True to form, it is like being a kid again.

The paddle-boarding lesson I took was also a big help because I really didn’t know what I was doing. The lessons teach you the basics and provide a ton of safety tips. According to Transport Canada, under the Small Vessel Regulations for Stand Up Paddle boards (SUP), you have to have the same mandatory safety equipment with you.

That equipment is the same as if you are in canoes, kayaks or rowboats, and includes a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD). Many approved PFDs, such as low-profile vests and waist-pack inflatables, are easier to use for paddle-boarders. You also need a whistle attached to the PFD. It is recommended that you have a rope tethering your ankle to the board. Of course, don’t forget the hat and sunscreen.

Another important element about safety is to know your environment - in this case, Lake Huron. I refer to it as Ocean Huron because of how fast the water can change and be unpredictable. Plus there’s that undertow to learn about, depending on where you are paddle-boarding or swimming. We now have some great informational signage along the beach which should help educate people.

Treat the water with a healthy dose of respect and you’ll have great memories of your water adventures.

As a reminder, you should always consult first with a medical professional or coach before starting a fitness program.