Cross Dressing
By Molly Gurien
No, I am not referring to Louise, an infamous cross dresser whom some of you may remember from a few occasional but always startling appearances at some FreeStyle events just a few years ago. I am referring here to maximizing mobility in the canoe with proper attire.
FreeStyle canoeing often requires the movement of the paddler into different positions in the canoe. This is especially true for executing cross and cross reverse maneuvers as well as advanced positions such as the high kneel. For years I struggled moving around in the canoe. My feet and knees would stick to the pad, jerking the canoe, resulting in even more bobble than I already had. I had noticed other freestylers wearing socks in their canoes but thought it was primarily for warmth. This made sense, my feet were often cold, and shoes with soles were out of the question as they inhibit flexibility, another asset for moving in the canoe. So I donned my neoprene socks for a cool, early morning FreeStyle class, and lo and behold, my feet slid effortlessly across my pad. No more stick!
Expanding on that experience, I extended this to lycra leggings and found my movements in the canoe became much smoother and more controlled. I now subscribe to what I term “Cross Dressing”! Dressing to enhance smooth, fluid movement in the canoe. I coined the term during a recent advanced Cross Forward class, where I was emphasizing the importance of proper clothing in the boat, specifically for ease of moving into a cross forward position. It is very simple, neoprene or lycra socks and leggings over the knees. Leggings can be nylon, lycra or other synthetic pants or capris, as long as they cover the knees. I prefer lycra as it slides well and doesn’t bunch up. Cotton absorbs more water and so is not appropriate for cross dressers.
The right clothing does not substitute for practice and paddling skill, but can certainly add to the fluidity of your paddling. And of course don’t forget your PFD to complete the outfit!