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What to Wear for White Water Rafting: Essential Gear for Your Adventure

What do I wear?

White water rafting is an exhilarating way to connect with nature and experience the thrill of navigating powerful rapids. However, this adventure also comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to staying comfortable and safe. What you wear on the water can make a significant difference in your experience. Whether you’re paddling through calm waters or tackling intense rapids, the right gear ensures that you remain warm, protected, and ready to fully enjoy your adventure. At Wolfpack Rafting and Broadmoor Outfitters, we prioritize your safety and comfort, and this guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable day on the river.

family in proper white water rafting gear standing in front of a river.
Neoprene Wetsuit, Splash Jackets, PFDs, and Helmets on a cool day

Quick-Dry Clothing

When it comes to white water rafting, cotton is not your friend. Cotton fabric tends to absorb and retain water, which means once it gets wet, it stays wet. On a warm day, this can be uncomfortable, but on a cold day, it can become a serious issue. Wet cotton draws heat away from your body, contributing to rapid cooling and increasing your risk of hypothermia. Instead, opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that dry quickly. Synthetics like polyester or nylon are ideal because they don’t hold moisture, helping you stay warm and comfortable, even if you get drenched in the rapids.

an example of quick drying shirt and shorts
Quick Dry Clothing

Water Shoes or Sandals

Proper footwear is essential for white water rafting. Choose water shoes or sandals with secure straps that stay on your feet. Avoid flip-flops or anything loose that could easily slip off in the water. Sturdy water shoes protect your feet from sharp rocks and help you keep your footing both in the raft and on shore. At Wolfpack Rafting, we provide neoprene booties for guests who need them. Other companies may have booties for rent. These booties offer additional warmth and protection, making them an excellent choice for colder water conditions or rocky riverbeds.

Example of sturdy shoes appropriate for white water rafting
Sturdy Shoes

Swimsuit

Wearing a swimsuit under your clothes is a no-brainer for white water rafting. You’ll be getting wet—very wet—so having a swimsuit as a base layer keeps you comfortable and ready for all the water action. It’s practical, quick-drying, and allows for easy movement as you paddle. Additionally, wearing a swimsuit makes changing at the end of the day much easier. After your rafting trip, you can quickly remove your wet wetsuit or shirt and change into dry clothes without needing to find a private space, which can be particularly convenient if the changing facilities are limited. At Wolfpack Rafting, there are riverside restrooms that provide a private changing space.

Examples of clothes to wear on a warm white water rafting day.
Appropriate Rafting Clothing

Sun Protection

Sun protection is crucial when you’re out on the water, especially at higher altitudes where UV exposure can be more intense. Even though you’ll be wearing a helmet, it’s important to apply waterproof sunscreen generously to exposed areas like your face, neck, and hands. Don’t forget to wear polarized sunglasses with a retainer strap to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun reflecting off the water. This gear will help protect your skin and eyes from the harsh sun, allowing you to enjoy the day without the worry of sunburn.

Rash Guard or Long-Sleeve Shirt

A rash guard or long-sleeve shirt serves as an additional layer of protection against the sun’s rays and helps keep you warm. Even on sunny days, the combination of water and wind can lead to a chill, so having that extra coverage can be a game-changer. Rash guards are particularly useful for preventing chafing from the life jacket and providing extra insulation on cooler days.

Neoprene Wetsuit

If you’re white water rafting in colder waters or during cooler weather, a neoprene wetsuit is a must. It provides insulation and keeps your core temperature up, ensuring that you stay warm even when you’re splashed or submerged in chilly water. These wetsuits are designed to be snug yet flexible, allowing you to paddle comfortably while maintaining warmth. At Wolfpack Rafting, we provide wetsuits for guests who would like them. Many rafting companies offer wetsuit rental packages, so if you’re rafting elsewhere, be sure to ask about availability when booking your trip.

Splash Jacket

A splash jacket is a lightweight, waterproof layer that helps protect against wind and water splashes. It’s particularly useful on cooler days or when you’re rafting through sections of the river that are particularly splashy. The jacket acts as a windbreaker, keeping you warmer and more comfortable throughout your adventure. Wolfpack Rafting provides splash jackets to guests, ensuring that you have the gear you need to stay warm and dry. With other companies, it’s important to know your comfort level and advocate for the gear you need. If you tend to get cold easily, don’t hesitate to ask for extra layers or the best options available to keep you comfortable.

family at the end of a white water rafting trip wearing the proper gear for a cooler rafting day.

Life Jacket (PFD)

Your life jacket, or personal flotation device (PFD), is your most important piece of safety equipment and is always provided by the rafting company. It’s crucial to ensure that it fits properly before you hit the water. A well-fitted PFD keeps you buoyant in the water and could be a lifesaver in the event of a fall out of the raft.

Helmet

Helmets are another essential safety item provided by the white water rafting company. Always wear a helmet to protect your head from potential impacts with rocks, the raft, or other paddles. Safety is the top priority, and a helmet is your first line of defense in case of an accident.

Final Thoughts

Proper preparation is key to enjoying a safe and thrilling white-water rafting experience. By wearing the right gear, you’ll not only be comfortable but also ready to tackle whatever the river throws your way. Remember, a well-prepared rafter is a happy rafter! So, before you embark on your adventure with Wolfpack Rafting and Broadmoor Outfitters, make sure you’ve checked off all the items on this list and don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have questions.

Gear up, stay safe, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories on the water! Book a white water rafting trip with us here: Book Now!

CategoriesFamilies, individuals, Lifestyle, Team Building by

Colorado Springs for Thrill Seekers

Colorado Springs is an excellent place to be an outdoors enthusiast. There are so many ways to enjoy nature and the beauty of Colorful Colorado. But if you like to get the adrenaline pumping and hiking doesn’t cut it for you, you are probably wondering where in Colorado Springs you can go for some real excitement. From zip-lining to rock climbing, and mountain biking to white water rafting, there are plenty of heights and sights for everyone. So if you are a serious thrill seeker, we’ve got the perfect list for you. Let’s take a look at the top outdoor activities near Colorado Springs.

Photo by Ty Downs on Unsplash

Zip Lining Courses Near Colorado Springs

There is no better way to get the blood pumping than with a high-altitude zip-lining course. On Broadmoor’s Wood Course, you can reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour as you cruise above a canyon and a waterfall at heights of 150 feet. If you need even greater thrills, the Fins Course is for intermediate zipliners and reaches heights of 500 feet. Zip lining is an awesome outdoor activity! It’s a great way to see the landscape around Colorado Springs and enjoy an action-packed day. It’s perfectly safe, great for kids, and a fun way to make memories with friends.

Best Mountain Biking Spots near Colorado Springs

If you are a cyclist looking for more adventure, you’ve surely considered getting into mountain biking. To get started mountain biking, you will need the proper bike and safety gear. You’ll also need some tips and tricks for navigating rocky trails. Once you’re ready to try it out, Red Rock Canyon Open Space has some of the best beginner mountain biking trails in the Colorado Springs area. 

One of the best thrill-seeker biking activities, however, is not actually a mountain biking trail. Biking down Pikes Peak is a 19.5-mile road course that starts with you taking the famous Cog Railway up to the summit of Pikes Peak. Then, the guided biking tour zigzags down the mountain. You’ll enjoy epic views and as much speed as you can handle. This adventure is one serious thrill for cyclists. 

Where to Go Rock Climbing in Colorado Springs

While indoor rock climbing is a fun way to get the blood pumping, it’s nothing thrill-wise compared to climbing outdoors. There are tons of amazing spots for outdoor rock climbing near Colorado Springs. Without any ropes for safety, bouldering is definitely a scary and thrilling way to climb. You can boulder pretty much anywhere climbing is allowed, and Colorado Springs has no shortage of options. One noteworthy place for bouldering is Ute Valley Park, which has a wide range of bouldering problems. Beginners to advanced boulderers can enjoy a day climbing in this park – just be sure to bring crash pads and a friend to spot you!

Another thrilling form of climbing is sport climbing. Unlike top rope climbing where the rope is above you, sport climbing involves lead climbing and sometimes setting your own gear. One popular location for sport climbing is Red Rock Canyon Open Space, which has mostly bolted climbing routes. This means that you don’t need to set anchors as you climb – just clip in and go. Be aware that you will need to acquire a free permit in advance. If you aren’t ready to invest in rock climbing gear or still need to learn the ropes, consider signing up for a guided rock climbing tour. You can enjoy the thrill of outdoor climbing, see the best sights Colorado Springs has to offer and decide if the sport is for you. 

Photo by Caleb Jack on Unsplash

How to Hike a Colorado Fourteener

Maybe hiking alone isn’t an adrenaline-pumping activity. But thrill seekers will love the opportunity to cross a Colorado Fourteener off their list. There are a number of beginner-friendly 14er hikes near Colorado Springs to get you started on your mountaineering journey. You can plan a training regimen for hiking at altitude and enjoy breathtaking views of the Front Range of the Rockies when you summit your first fourteener.

Colorado Springs White Water Rafting Trips

We’ve got the best thrill-seeker activity for water lovers: white water rafting. Colorado Springs is chock-full of awesome places to dip in on a hot summer day. The Arkansas River is particularly well known among water enthusiasts as having some amazing rapids in this region. A white water rafting trip typically has rapids between Class II-IV, which is perfect for folks who aren’t too experienced with the sport but still want a wild ride. Some of the waves can get up to three feet high, giving this white water rafting tour a roller-coaster feel. You’ll certainly end up wet and smiling after a day floating down the river on a Broadmoor white water rafting tour. 

Unique and Exciting Sights near Colorado Springs

Last but not least, we’ve got some thrilling adventures that are less exercise-based. If you are in the Colorado Springs area and trying to get outdoors but not necessarily exercise, we’ve got you covered. If you are looking to go wildlife spotting, you can expect to find bighorn sheep, bison, and elk near Colorado Springs. While Rocky Mountain National Park is a safe bet, there are wildlife refuges and parks closer to Colorado Springs that are popular for wildlife spotting and birdwatching. Golden and Commerce City, outside of Denver, are two great spots that make for a great day trip from Colorado Springs.

One popular and thrilling day trip from Colorado Springs has to be Royal Gorge Bridge. It’s over an hour from Colorado Springs. This adventure park has a ton of options for thrill seekers and relaxed tourists alike. Aside from standing on this suspension bridge 956 feet over the Arkansas River, there is also a gondola, a zip line, a sky coaster, and more.

Final Thoughts

There are unlimited ways to have fun in Colorado Springs. It is the perfect place to be if you are looking to get into a new outdoor sport or hoping to see something cool in nature. No matter what you choose to do, make sure to wear the recommended safety gear and obey the law. Consider starting with a guided tour as it is the best way to get all the beginner instruction you need before you branch off on your own.

CategoriesFamilies, Lifestyle, Team Building by

What is White Water Rafting?

If you are vacationing near a river, you are probably looking for a fun way to enjoy the water. There really is no better way to experience a landscape and the power of Mother Nature than to get on the river and feel it flowing beneath you. A white water rafting trip is the perfect way to see a large section of terrain and create a fun memory on your trip.

So, What Is White Water Rafting Exactly?

There are tons of ways to get on the water and plenty of different bodies of water to experience. To break it down, white water describes a part of a river that has rapids, and rafting is the vehicle you will be traveling in. Rivers are rated into different classes that describe the difficulty of the rapids, both based on technical skill and size. Class 1 rapids are small, while Class 6 are considered unsafe except for professionals. The Colorado Springs area offers some amazing white water opportunities on the Arkansas River. These are classes 2-4, which are perfect for beginners looking for adventure and thrill without too much technical difficulty. 

Image by Luisao Pepe from Pixabay

Why White Water Rafting Is Great for Beginners

As opposed to kayaking or canoeing, rafting is a great option for beginners because it is a group activity. Your guide will teach you the basics of paddling and navigating the waterways, and the group effort makes the work a lot more manageable. A raft also has the benefit of added stability over a kayak or canoe. While it is possible to fall out of the raft, white water kayakers know that rolling a kayak can definitely happen on the river. If you are nervous about spending time overboard, a rafting trip is the best option.

What to Expect on a White Water Rafting Trip

After you get set up with gear, you and your rafting group will head down to the river with your raft and guide. The trip will be fully planned out with a specific drop-in and out location on the river, and the guide’s knowledge of how to navigate each rapid you will face. At the start of the trip, your guide will teach you how to paddle as a team. Whoever sits at the front of the raft will dictate the pace so everyone’s paddling efforts will work together. When you go over rapids, it’ll feel like a roller coaster with a nice cold splash at the end. 

White water rafting is an amazing way to get up close and personal with some very interesting landscapes. You will get to see unique rock formations carved out from the powerful river as well as views of the surrounding area that you wouldn’t have from nearby trails or roads. You may raft through a canyon or gorge, offering breathtaking views of the rock face as you float by. 

The river is also a great place for spotting wildlife. You might see eagles or falcons flying about looking for a meal in the river, as well as fish like trout and other local species swimming below. Every part of a white water rafting trip will involve some calm waters, and depending on how clear the water is, you might catch some cool views. 

What Gear Do You Need for a White Water Rafting Trip?

If you are wondering how to go white water rafting, a tour is a great option to minimize your investment. You don’t have to worry about renting a raft or gathering a group together for a trip. A white water rafting tour will take care of the raft, life vest, helmet, paddles, and logistics of getting on and off the water. 

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Can I Go White Water Rafting Alone?

Aside from the gear requirements, white water rafting requires specific knowledge about the river. White water rafting guides are experts in how the water flows around obstacles and the best ways to negotiate rapids with the raft. Your white water rafting guide will have experience with the specific rapids you will travel down, and this expertise will ensure you have a safer and more enjoyable trip.

What to Wear White Water Rafting

In addition to the necessary life vest, you will want to wear clothes that are comfortable when wet. Depending on the class of rapids and where you sit in the raft, you may get a little splash or pretty soaked. For this reason, it is important to wear dri-fit clothing that will dry faster and stay comfortable. It’s not a good idea to wear cotton, which will stay wet, especially under a life vest. This will make you cold and clammy. You can opt to wear a bathing suit, but athletic shorts will work as well. 

For footwear, many white water rafters advise closed-toe shoes. You will also want to wear something that will stay on – a flip-flop or clog could easily end up at the bottom of the river. The best thing to wear on a white water rafting trip would be wetsuit booties or water shoes. These will remain comfortable and grippy when wet, so your feet and stability will be protected in the event that you end up in the water. Whatever you choose to wear, it is a good idea to bring a small towel, dry socks, and shoes to leave in a locker or in your car. No one likes the feeling of damp toes, and it’s a good idea to dry off and change once you get off the water. 

What Should I Bring on a White Water Rafting Trip?

Now that your clothing and safety equipment are accounted for, let’s go over a few other essentials for the day. First, consider that you will likely be in the sun for the whole trip. You should apply sunscreen to any body part that won’t be covered by clothing. This is an important note as your legs will be out of the water and exposed to the sun. You don’t want a shin sunburn! Also, be sure to apply sun-blocking chapstick to keep from getting sunburned on your lips.

Though you will be wearing a helmet, you will be able to fit a hat underneath to provide some necessary shade. Many white water rafters also choose to wear sunglasses, for glare off the river. Just make sure your sunglasses fit well or aren’t too expensive! Consider that a large rapid might throw anything overboard that isn’t attached to you or the raft.

The last and most important thing to remember is water. The river will tempt any thirsty rafters, and the heat and sun can dehydrate easily. A river rafting trip may be a few hours to a full day, so make sure to bring a water bottle and stay hydrated.

Final Thoughts

White water rafting is a little bit of work and a lot of fun. Paddling over rapids is a thrilling way to experience the power of the river. It’s also a great outdoor activity for a hot summer day. If you have little experience in choppy waters, rafting is the best way to get more comfortable with your paddling and river floating skills. So, if you are wondering how to get started with white water rafting near Colorado Springs, you found it. Just sign up for a white water rafting tour and have fun!