Headwear

The amount of heat that escapes through your head is up for almost constant debate, but for anyone who has experienced a cold-water swirly, an ice-cold noggin can be unbearable. Make sure to layer properly. A beanie is great for milder temperatures, and far less restricting than typical neoprene hoods. Still, for those frigid waters there is no substitute for a thick hood. For the best effect in wintery waters, wear the beanie overtop of the hood.