Which practice is recommended for dealing with cold?

• A. Layering of synthetic athletic wear
• B. Don't go on the water if air+water temps are less than 100
• C. Don't go on the water without protection
• D. Wear cotton clothing only

Answer: (A)

In cold rowing, the key is staying warm while staying dry. The best approach is layering with synthetic athletic wear. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to pull sweat away from your skin, add a mid-layer for insulation, and top it with a wind- and water-resistant outer layer. This layering lets you add or remove layers as conditions and effort change, keeping you comfortable and reducing the risk of cold-related issues.

Synthetic fabrics are preferred because they wick moisture and dry quickly, so you stay warm even if you sweat or get splashed. Cotton, on the other hand, absorbs water and loses its insulating value when wet, leaving you colder. The other options rely on a specific temperature rule or are vague about protection, and they don’t provide the practical, actionable guidance that layering with suitable fabrics does.