Hypothermia and the 70/48 with Andrew Hansen

In this episode we talk story with Andrew Hansen about his recent experience running safety in the 70/48. A unique paddling race that traverses the puget sound starting in Tacoma, Washington, heading north into Port Townsend. But there is a catch...it starts at 7pm and goes through the night. It is completely self sufficient, other than safety boats, that you will probably not even see unless there is problem.  With that being said, hypothermia becomes one of the main issues that a racer needs to prepare for.

Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat. Normal body temperature is around 98.6 F (37 C). Hypothermia occurs when your body temperature falls dangerously below 95 F (35 C). It can happen in as little as 5 minutes.

Here are our top picks for cold weather/water paddling gear:

• Base Layers (I wear these under waterproof gear). 
• Waterproof Gear Splash Pants and Splash Jacket 
• Boundary Socks (I usually wear wool socks under these) 
• Extreme Rescue Drysuit (Rescue Team Pick) 
• PFD's (These keep you not only SAFE but WARM)
• Medical Kits designed for Paddlers
• Waterproof Matches (Great to keep in lifejacket) 
• SUP Skin 
• Gloves 
• Hydroskin Gear three neoprene thicknesses, a variety of tops and bottoms to mix and match 
• Ignik Handwarmers 
• Dry Bags 
• Booties