I found out that I’m going white water rafting in Maine in mid-September. It could get cold and wearing cotton under the wetsuit is a bad idea.
So, I’m in the market for pants, tops and socks that are breathable, shed water/humidity, keep me warm, are comfortable, do not develop strong odors and are easy to clean and maintain.
What materials are best? Do you have any favorite brands? What should I know?
Don’t wear anything under the wetsuit. It traps a very thin layer of water against your skin that your body heats to a reasonable temperature. Since it is so snug, once the water gets in there and gets warm, it is difficult to displace with new colder water. Wearing breathable pants underneath will counter its form-fitting properties.
Also, you needn’t be as concerned as you are about the water temperature. As someone who paddles year-round, I can assure you that the water temperature is about 6-weeks behind the air temperature. Even though it’s sunny and warm out in May, the water is still wicked cold. Conversely, even though it’s starting to cool off in September, the water is still swimmable. The wetsuit should be enough to keep the edge off the slightly cooler air.
If you’re really concerned, or don’t handle cold well, ask around to see if someone will loan you a drysuit (generally not a rentable item). Just remember everyone pees in their wetsuit - no one pees in their drysuit.
I use merino wool for any undergarments in the bush, snow trips, rafting etc. They don’t smell and are warm when wet.
So yes look at wool!
Wet Cotton = Death