The great protector – Palm Equipment Kaituna rashie review
Throughout 2014’s warm summer there’s barely been a day when anything more than the thinnest sliver of neoprene and boardshorts was needed – such have been the temperatures on the south coast. Having said that, this is still the UK and not the Tropics. Entering the drink with nothing but pink skin for comfort would be foolhardy – after all anyone can end up taking a swim. Enter Palm Equipment’s Kaituna thermal rashie – a nifty bit of kit that’s been well worn in a variety of scenarios.
Palm Equipment have a paddle sports heritage stretching back to the dawn of time and while it’s kayaking that (mainly) pays the bills the brand have recently crossed over to stand up paddle boarding. The UK’s very own Sam Ross is now on the company’s roster of sponsored paddlers.
The brand’s Kaituna rashie is mean ‘n’ moody in black with red detailing. Nothing can take away the level of tech that’s gone into this garment though. Close fitting with secure wrist, waist and neck seals – important for preventing unnecessary water flush. As snug as the Kaituna is there’s still an element of breathability which has seen even the hottest days not too uncomfortable. When you become too radiated simply take it off.
If you do end up with a dunking then the Kaituna fends off chill super efficiently and allows riders to focus on the job in hand: paddling. A lot of layering garments tend to fall down when subjected to wind – the evaporative nature of water cooling wearers down further can be an issue. Not so with Palm’s rashie. It still did an admirable job of stoking the fire when breeze popped up.
Well manufactured with high end stitching and easy to rinse with quick drying properties, this is one piece of apparel any keen paddler wouldn’t want to be without.
CONCLUSION
Palm Equipment’s Kaituna thermal rashvest is a high end bit of protective apparel. Amazing warmth properties make it a must have for all SUPers. Wear it on warm days as a standalone garment or use in partnership with a wetsuit or cag during colder spells.
Price: £59.95
For more info head over to www.palmequipmenteurope.com/product/kaituna
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