Monday, February 02, 2015

THE Spraydeck Guide. What is the correct spraydeck for both you and your boat?


So you've got a kayak, what are you going to wear with it?

This is Nookie's comprehensive guide to their spraydecks to help you make the right choice for both you and your boat. Suitable for beginners through to professionals/experts... from recreational splashing about, to challenging sea kayaking, right up to the top of that waterfall you're about to drop off. 


We've got you covered.


This is the crowd pleaser.
Versatile full neoprene spraydeck for a variety of different kayak disciplines at a price that makes your wallet smile.
It's easy to put on; with high quality, stretchy jersey neoprene and 10mm shockcord bungee.
It's easy to take off; with a fail safe, twisted 40mm webbing front release strap, with the added confidence of an adjustable knee strap.
The comfortable neoprene tube creates a snug fit and good seal.

Suitable for recreational touring, or low-grade whitewater.
CONDITIONS: Flat water, Grade 2 White Water.
KAYAKER: General recreational kayaker, beginner whitewater kayaker
WEAR WITH: Pathfinder II Jacket on flat water, Ti Vest on low-grade whitewater


This is the deck to choose if you don't know what type of kayakng you are going to do from one day to the next. It can be used for nearly everything.

CINCH DECK
 British made, exceptional quality, universal neoprene spraydeck. It's easy to put on or take off and the great fit will always keep it in place. The reinforced Armotex Deck makes this a durable every day deck.
A quality British made, versatile full neoprene spraydeck.
CONDITIONS: General use, Grade 3-4 whitewater, Sea Kayaking, Surfing
KAYAKER: The type of kayaker that gets in any type of boat and paddles, Mid-level whitewater, Surf Kayaker, Sea Kayaker
WEAR WITH: Shadow Jacket for general use, Airscrew Jacket  for whitewater, Ti Vest for Surfing




A firm favourite with all sorts of whitewater paddlers. Choose this deck if you like to take on a whitewater challenge.


ABSOLUTE DECK
Coated with latex on the underside, this British made spraydeck will grip your cockpit and make a formidable dry seal. The reinforced Armotex deck gives you extra confidence and durability.


A quality British made, latex coated neoprene spraydeck.
CONDITIONS: Whitewater Grade 3 and up
KAYAKER: Whitewater Kayaker, Surf Kayaker
WEAR WITH: Charger Drysuit for full protection; Venom Jacket and Evolution Dry Trousers




This is THE Ultimate whitewater spraydeck for anyone who wants a tough, durable spraydeck that won't blow.  Confident British made quality.

ULTIMATE DECK
Reinforced Kevlar® on high-wear areas with durable Armotex neoprene for the toughest deck on the market.  Natural latex grippy underside for a perfect seal. The 38mm superstrong webbing release strap is twisted to make it easy to grab.

CONDITIONS: Whitewater Grade 3 and up
KAYAKER: Whitewater Kayaker, Surf Kayaker
WEAR WITH: Charger Drysuit for full protection, Pro Bib Pants - WW Edition




Renowned British made spraydeck used by World Champion Surf Kaykers. 
Reliability in all conditions.

SURF SKIRT
Unique shaped decks specifically designed to fit surf kayak cockpits. Pre-stretched powerful shockcord makes a confident seal with durable Armotex neoprene. Available in two deck sizes.

 CONDITIONS: Surf / Waves
KAYAKER: Beginner / Intermediate / Expert / Professional Surf Kayaker
WEAR WITH: Ti Vest for climate control and sun protection, 3/4 Strides for grip in your boat.




This is the recreational breathable deck.
Versatile spraydeck with waterproof & breathable fabric waist with secure neoprene deck for dryness.  Designed to be comfortable and easy to use. 

COMO TOURING DECK
The breathable waterproof waist is fully taped, with a handy mesh-drained pocket and removable braces make it easy to adjust to fit you. 
It's easy to put on; with high quality, stretchy jersey neoprene and 10mm shockcord bungee.
It's easy to take off; with a fail safe, twisted 40mm webbing front release strap, with the added confidence of an adjustable knee strap.

For recreational touring, up to intermediate sea kayaking.
CONDITIONS: Flat water, Moderate sea conditions
KAYAKER: General recreational kayaker, touring, beginner to intermediate sea kayaker
WEAR WITH: Pathfinder II Jacket or Shadow Jacket for wind & splash protection, or Softcore on its own





The Aston Martin of spraydecks. This top of the range waterproof and breathable spraydeck is British Made quality engineering.

ATLANTIC TOURING DECK



Featuring our high-spec EvoTX 4ply waterproof and breathable fabric in the waist tube with an anti-pooling section (to avoid a puddle of water resting and seeping through). Two sizes of waist with Velcro adjusters and removable braces offers a great fit for everyone. The deck is the highest quality Armotex durable neoprene with shockcord map locators and a grippy latex underside for a dry seal.

More challenging sea kayaking, with a drier deck seal.

CONDITIONS: Heavy Seas or variable conditions
KAYAKER: Intermediate to experienced sea kayaker, or one who wants a more fitted waist
WEAR WITH: Pro Bib Pants and Explorer II Buoyancy Aid



 


This may be an 'entry-level' / 'beginners' spraydeck, but don't overlook it's excpetional quality and robust build. Designed and made to last.

NKE REINFORCED DECK



Utilising tough 500D Cordura® reinforced panels on high wear areas on the deck and flexible yet durable waterproof Nylon thoughout, this deck is fully taped to keep you dry. The elasticated generous waist will fit a huge diversity of different size kayakers with a simple, effective elasticated drawstring. The deck comes in three sizes (Keyhole, Big and Extra Big) to accomodate as many different kayak cockpits as possible.

This spraydeck is excellent for both personal use as well as use every single day in commercial outdoor activity centres.
Perfect for beginners, canoe clubs and activity centres.

CONDITIONS: Flat, calm waters.
KAYAKER: Beginners, first introuction to a spraydeck
WEAR WITH: NKE Buoyancy Aid and NKE Jacket



Don't forget..


The perfect way to keep gear in your boat when travelling, or creepy crawlies out when storing your kayak.
Coming soon in two sizes. Great for every kayak.

COCKPIT COVER
CONDITIONS: Travelling or storing
KAYAKER: All kayakers
WEAR WITH: Everything!

Thursday, November 06, 2014

The wrong trousers? Let Nookie help you choose the right dry-wear for you...

THE NOOKIE DRY-WEAR GUIDE

Whether it's a raging class V rapid or freezing wind blown sea water, Nookie dry-wear keeps you paddling through all conditions. Choosing the right bit of kit to keep you dry can be challenging. The team at Nookie have put this guide together to make that decision a little bit easier.




CHARGER DRYSUIT

The smart British made Nookie Charger Drysuit moves with you because of it's anatomical dynamic fit.
NOOKIE CHARGER DRYSUIT
If you're looking for something to keep you dry all over, you're going to need to invest in a drysuit.

Designed for whitewater kayaking but also an excellent choice for sea kayakers, the Nookie Charger Drysuit boasts all the features needed to keep you dry in your kayak. 

Made from the new tough waterproof and breathable EvoTX4 and EvoTX 500D (both designed specifically for Nookie) it is durable and comfortable in all conditions.

Beta-testing the Nookie Charger Drysuit
Charging.
Team Rider - Alex Rodegro


CONDITIONS: Autumn/Winter when conditions are wet, windy and cold.
KAYAKER: Whitewater Kayaker, Sea Kayaker, General Touring/Recreation in colder climates
WEAR WITH: Softcore Thermal Base on milder days, Iceman All-in-One when it gets finger-numbing cold.




PRO BIB PANTS/SALOPETTE DRY TROUSERS

Dry, comfortable, easy-on and versatile all-rounder bib pants/salopettes. Made in Britain.
NOOKIE PRO BIB
PANTS/SALOPETTE
DRY TROUSERS


 If you want dry feet and comfort, the Nookie Pro Bib Pants/Salopette feature a tall single bib with stretchy neoprene sides, adjustable wide elastic shoulder straps and the all important relief zip. 

Offering great versatility for kayaking, fishing, wildlife photography, open canoeing, sailing... the list goes on.

Great versatility for kayaking to
open canoeing.
CONDITIONS: All year round when you want to stay dry.
KAYAKER: Recreational, Touring, Kayak Fishing, Wildlife Photographer, Open Canoeing
WEAR WITH: Softcore Thermal Base and/or Thermalcore100 for layering, Iceman All-in-One, Outer Shell Pathfinder II or Shadow Jacket




PRO BIB PANTS/SALOPETTE DRY TROUSERS - WHITEWATER EDITION

Pair these with a double seal jacket and you have a versatile, two-piece semi-dry suit. Made in Britain.
NOOKIE PRO BIB
PANTS/SALOPETTE
DRY TROUSERS

WHITEWATER EDITION
 This is the closest thing to the dryness of a drysuit, with much more vesatility for varying conditions. These are the next step up in salopettes with a tall double waist with stretchy neoprene panels for a great fit.

This makes them a great choice for whitewater and they're also great for demanding sea kayaking too. Whatever the weather.

Pro Bib Whitewater Edition
with dry double tunnel
© Kasper Zoth
CONDITIONS: Wet, cold or variable where adjustment to layering is paramount.
KAYAKER: Whitewater Kayaker, Sea Kayaker, A Kayaker who covers loads of disciplines in a year
WEAR WITH: Softcore Thermal Base and/or Thermalcore100 for layering, Iceman All-in-One, Outer Shell Venom Jacket or Airscrew Jacket




EVOLUTION DRY TROUSERS - WITH FABRIC SOCKS

Super stylish British made, fully taped EvoTX4 ply trousers with reinforced EvoTX 500D asymmetric socks. Tough yet flexible and comfortable to wear.
EVOLUTION DRY TROUSERSFABRIC SOCKS
High waisted dry trousers featuring our brand new EvoTX 500D asymmetric socks with minimal seams for durability and comfort. Choose the socks if you want warm, toasty feet. Wear with socks inside and shoes over the top for protection and durability.


Designed and tested to work for you in harsh seas, whitewater rapids or lazy days on the water.

Dry trousers with socks, keep your
feet warm and dry.
Great for scouting rapids.
CONDITIONS: Cooler weather, or if you are likely to have your feet in the water.
KAYAKER: All kayakers
WEAR WITH: Iceman All-in-One, Outer Shell Venom Jacket or Airscrew Jacket or Pathfinder II or Shadow Jacket




EVOLUTION DRY TROUSERS - WITH LATEX ANKLES

Waterproof and breathable British made dry trousers with natural latex ankle seals designed for you to trim to fit.
EVOLUTION DRY TROUSERSLATEX ANKLE SEALS
Versatile dry trousers with dry latex ankle seals for you to layer up your footwear options to your preferred choice.

Adjustable neoprene lined outer cuff features low snag velcro. Adjust the outer cuff to protect the latex seal and minimise flushing.

Dry trousers with latex, keep you comfortable and dry
in a variety of disciplines and conditons.

CONDITIONS: Cooler weather, cold water, wet weather.
KAYAKER: All kayakers




RAPID SEMI-DRY TROUSERS

Semi-dry trousers to keep the elements at bay with super comfortable neoprene inner ankle gaskets. Made in Britain.
RAPID SEMI-DRYTROUSERS
 These are the perfect choice when fully dry trousers aren't necessary. The exceptionally breathable bamboo fabric makes them a great choice in warmer conditions and the soft, flexible and very comfortable neoprene inner ankle seals make them super easy to put on and take off.

Choose these trousers if you want some protection from the elements, especially in variable conditions, but when comfort and breathability are the highest priority.
Recreational semi-dry trousers
CONDITIONS: Warmer weather, warmer water.
KAYAKER: Freestyle Kayakers, Sit-on-top Kayakers, General Recreation and Touring
WEAR WITH: Outer Shell Airscrew Jacket or Pathfinder II or Shadow Jacket




NIMBUS OVER TROUSERS

Comfortable, versatile, easy-on splash-proof over trousers.

NIMBUS OVER TROUSERS
With fully taped dive quality seams, these trousers will replace your general walking trousers before you know it. Suitable for walkers, outdoor activity centres, sit on tops and just generally keeping dry in bad weather, you cannot live without the Nookie Nimbus Over Trousers in your kit bag.

These are perfect for slipping on over your trousers to create a waterproof and windproof barrier from the elements whenever you need them.


Waterproof and windproof,
whenever you need them.
CONDITIONS: Variable, windy, raining
KAYAKER: Outdoor Activity Centres, Sit-on-top Kayakers, General Recreation and Walking
WEAR WITH: Outer Shell NKE Jacket or Pathfinder II or Shadow Jacket


And finally...

to help you easily distinguish the differences between the various options available, here's our DRY-WEAR CHECK LIST:



DRY-WEAR CHECK LIST

Friday, October 24, 2014

Is the Game Changer really changing the game?

After PaddleExpo I was equipped with the new Nookie Charger Drysuit and ready to get wet. Where to go? Parallel to the Sickline event – to Austria. I looked through the weather forecast and could see that this week in Austria would arrange a mixture of rainy and even sunny autumn days.  Perfect conditions for testing the new drysuit! My choice of combination fell on this:


My selection of the Thermal-Combo
Easy to jump in and even beside the river it cut quite a dash.  Just observe the glances of the girls -YES!

I love to have warm feet. These’re the basements of every trip and consider the fact if there is a longer rescue or scouting action half in the water.

You have to jump in and feel the anatomical fit of the cut! Even the flexible MasterSeal Ti Zip on the back snuggles to every movement you make.


The first days in Austria was accompanied by changing conditions and our schedule of river sections was perfect to see what’s going on with the breathable EvoTX4 fabric. So we paddled several sections between class IV-V. I started to sweat during the fast and continuous runs. The fabric was fighting against the river water and breathing at the same time!



going fast


In between we had to upload our boats and drive a few kilometers to the next put in. This was the best situation for checking the fabric vs. sun, sweat, rain and coldness. You know it! If you need to shuttle for a short distance for another run you want to keep it simple. Finally the best situation is when you can sit with a dry ass on a dry seat. But I had to mention something else too. During a 10 minutes car drive I could notice that the outer shell of the EcoTX4 starts to dry too. At the next put in it seems that I was wearing my drysuit for the first time of the day! That fast drying is important if you want to wear the drysuit every day and need to dry it outside for the next adventure.


anatomical fit of the Ti Zip


It’s dry – check.     ||     It’s breathable – check.     ||     It dries fast – check.



anatomical fit of the EvoTX4

But is this performance till now everything you need? No it isn't, cause it isn't enough for what a high end drysuit needs to attend.  Everyone who acquires a river knows it. The main point is the performance in the boat. But it’s not the only point. What’s about scouting, climbing, rescuing and even swimming?! Therefore you need a perfect fit and bomb proof drysuit for every situation on the water, half in the water and climbing on the banks.  Where you can find such conditions in Austria? For sure in the Holy Cross Gorge of the Venter-River. As we ran this deep gorge without sunlight several times we had all those conditions. Even a rescue action which blessedly went all good.


Dynamic fit during paddling – check.

Dynamic fit during scouting – check.

Dynamic fit during climbing on slippery banks – check. 


rescue action

The right climate during risky rescue actions – check.


Thumbs up!

What has been the question at the beginning? I’ve got the answer!

The Charger Drysuit is the Game Changer

Go out and try it by yourself and you will admit!



Alex Ax-Ro
Nookie Team Rider




Wednesday, August 06, 2014

New #GameChangers - EvoTX4 and EvoTX 500D - What are we shouting about?

There's a buzz of excitment in Nookie HQ at the moment.

The new product range in the NEW EvoTX4 and EvoTX 500D fabrics are rolling off the production line in our factory in Cornwall, UK as I type.


So, why are we so excited about these products, and this fabric?


Let's start with the fabric, because to be honest it's the backbone to this new range's awesomeness.


New - Nookie EvoTX4 - 4ply Fabric

Designed specifically for the new Nookie drywear range, EvoTX4 from Nookie has been developed and tested with the sole focus on perfomance. Proven to be tough for professional and expedition use, with quick drying properties and a flexible feel that is comfortable wear.

EvoTX4 - 4ply Fabric
(available in Lava Red or Charcoal Grey)

This fabric has already been around the World. Our dedicated team riders have taken it to the four corners to give it a beating and have fed-back to our in-house design and development team to make sure this is the best fabric for the job.
 

Team Rider: James Weir
Beta testing the new EvoTX Fabrics
in Switzerland


The layers have been developed in this fabric to offer you the best protection when wearing it. The face fabric is a flexible Nylon weave and the outer is coated in Durable Water Repellant (DWR). DWR is a coating on the exterior of the material that makes the water bead up and roll off. 

We then use a double membrane to keep you dry. The hydrophobic microporus coating, as the name implies, is resistant to water. This stable layer is designed to keep the water out of your garment. This is next to a hydrophillic grey coating to encourage breathability; designed to release the trapped moisture when you are working hard (pespiring). The membranes work because they have micro-pores to prevent water penetration in but to allow vapour out. The grey coating is proven to be more durable than the traditional white coating, which is why we've chosen it for this highly technical application.

Finally, next to your skin, we have used a comfortable yet durable 20D Tricot mesh. This offers flexibility of movement as well as encouraging the wicking of the vapour across the garment to keep you dry and comfortable.

1. Durable 160D Nylon face fabric that is flexible and soft to the touch. Coated with Durable Water Repellant (DWR)
2. Hydrophobic, microporus coating
3. Hydrophillic grey coating (grey is more durable than standard white)
4. Nylon 20D Tricot Mesh for wicking



Waterproofness: 20,000mm/H2O
Breathability: 5,000g/m2/24hrs


EvoTX4 - 4ply Fabric



New - Nookie EvoTX 500D - Reinforced 4ply Fabric

Designed to compliment EvoTX4, the EvoTX 500D is even tougher. The 500D Nylon constuction is like Cordura but with the added benefit it is waterproof and breathable. The dense weave protects all high wear areas, such as the seat, knees and cuffs in a garment, without extra bulk.
 
EvoTX 500D - Reinforced 4ply Fabric

This incredible fabric features all the same layers as the EvoTX4 described above, with the exception of the face fabric. This is beefed up from 160D to 500D weave to offer you more protection where you need it.

It still offers fantastic waterproof and breathability figures, so there's no compromise in the garment you're wearing.

1. Durable 500D Nylon face fabric that is as tough as Cordura. Coated with Durable Water Repellant (DWR)
2. Hydrophobic, microporus coating
3. Hydrophillic grey coating (grey is more durable than standard white)
4. Nylon 20D Tricot Mesh for wicking

Waterproofness: 20,000mm/H2O
Breathability: 3,000g/m2/24hrs

EvoTX 500D - Reinforced 4ply Fabric


Both these fabrics can be found in the new Nookie Charger Drysuit, Nookie Pro Bib Pants and Nookie Evolution Trousers The whole range can be viewed on our Game Changers page, here.

As always, if you have any questions about our products, please feel free to call us (01822 832 333), or email us on info@nookie.co.uk