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This year marks the 25th year of Reed and to celebrate we are having a look at what this innovative British manufacturer has to offer us sea kayakers. Over the years Reed has developed a selection of unique fabrics exclusively for their own use and manufactures a range of products in each material in their small factory in Braunton, Devon. Each fabric has been designed to give it a certain range of attributes making it suitable for different applications.
Transpire fleece
Transpire fleece fabric has a tight brush fleece on the inside and a smooth, slip knit on the outside. This is designed to move the sweat away from the body and towards outer layer. These fleeces should be worn in contact with the skin to maximise the wicking properties. Reed have a top to toe range of Transpire Fleece garments, from hats to socks and everything in between. They are Reed's best seller.
Transpire Fleece Long Sleeve Top: Check price on Ebay (UK)
Transpire Fleece Long Trousers: Check price on Ebay (UK)
Transpire Fleece Double Layer Socks: Check price on Ebay (UK)
Aquatherm + Super Stretch Aquatherm
Aquatherm is a lightweight, waterproof fabric that offers great freedom of movement. It is less than a millimetre thick and yet strong, waterproof and flexible, all while being PFC free. The inner surface is a soft feel, fast drying, polyester stretch knit while the outer surface is a tough, stretchy and waterproof polyurethane layer. As well as dry tops, pants and suits it is used to make a wide range of spraydecks. Super Stretch Aquatherm is similar to Aquatherm but thinner and more flexible making it ideal for neck and cuff seals. Being made of a non latex material can make it more comfortable to wear next to the skin and it is much more split resistant than standard latex seals.
Aquatherm Touring Jacket with Hood: Check price on Ebay (UK)
Aquatherm Spraydeck with Adjustable Waist: Check price on Ebay (UK)
Aquatherm Fleece
Another fabric unique to Reed Chillcheater, Aquatherm Fleece has the same PFC free polyurethane outer surface as Aquatherm but it is bonded to a thicker, softer brushed fleece on the inside. It can be worn next to the skin and is designed to be used in colder environments without the restrictions of multiple layers of bulky fabrics. The Aquatherm Fleece Pogies feel lovely and warm on your hands and are light enough not to affect your paddling stroke, either when worn or stored wrapped up on the paddle shaft.
Aquatherm Fleece Pogies: Check price on Ebay (UK)
By Philip Clegg
With over two decades of working in the sea kayaking industry, Phil can be found on a daily basis coaching for Sea Kayaking Anglesey. That's when he's not expeditioning, playing or putting kit to the test.