Hypothermia Table

Thanks to Shawn Baker for submitting this table.

Water Temperature
in Degrees F (Degrees C)

Loss of Dexterity (with no protective clothing)

Exhaustion or Unconsciousness

Expected Time of Survival

Recommended Paddling Clothing*

32.5 (0.3)

Under 2 min.

Under 15 min.

Under 15 to 45 min.

Drysuit with fleece layers, neoprene booties, beanie, gloves

32.5 to 40 (0.3 to 4.5)

Under 3 min.

15 to 30 min.

30 to 90 min.

Drysuit with fleece layers, neoprene booties, beanie, gloves

40 to 50 (4.5 to 10)

Under 5 min.

30 to 60 min.

1 to 3 hrs.

Drysuit with fleece or polypro layers, neoprene booties, beanie, gloves

50 to 60 (10 to 15.5)

10 to 15 min.

1 to 2 hrs.

1 to 6 hrs.

Drysuit with polypro layers or wetsuit plus drytop, neoprene booties, hat

60 to 70 (15.5 to 21)

30 to 40 min.

2 to 7 hrs.

2 to 40 hrs.

Wetsuit with light paddling jacket, paddling shoes, hat

70 to 80 (21 to 26.5)

1 to 2 hrs.

2 to 12 hrs.

3 hrs. to indefinite

Thin or shorty wetsuit

Over 80 (Over 26.5)

2 to 12 hrs.

Indefinite

Indefinite

Swimsuit

* This table is intended as a basic guide for paddling apparel selection for various water temperatures. If water/weather conditions are rough or paddlers are inexperienced, clothing one or two levels more protective should be considered. Always wear a PFD.


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