Wetsuits cost between $75 and $200 depending on the thickness of the neoprene and the features. For a standard 3mm-thick Farmer John with a relief zipper, expect to pay about $100. Such a wetsuit works for water temperatures above 50°F; lower temperatures require a thicker wetsuit or (preferably) a drysuit.

A drysuit is an entirely waterproof garment that works by preventing water from contacting your skin. Insulation to prevent heat loss comes from the clothing you wear under the drysuit. The drysuit relies on latex gaskets at the neck, wrists, and ankles to prevent all water infiltration.

Drysuits cost between $500 and $1000 depending on the quality and features. For a Gore-Tex drysuit with relief zipper and integrated socks, expect to spend about $900. Such a drysuit works for very cold water temperatures (down to 40°F and below), even though the waterproof-breathable fabric ensures that it is comfortable in a wide range of air temperatures.

A cheaper alternative to a drysuit is a drytop, shown at right, which has latex gaskets at the wrists and neck and a neoprene seal at the waist. When combined with a spray skirt and a bomb-proof Eskimo roll, a drytop functions just as well as a drysuit. Drytops range in price from $150 to $500, with double-skirted Gore-Tex models selling for about $400, and nylon models selling for under $200.

Farther down the pricing scale are "waterproof" paddling jackets. These jackets use adjustable neoprene gaskets at the wrists and neck to minimize water infiltration, but are not completely waterproof. However, depending on the model and the user's tenacity, seals good enough for a few dry Eskimo rolls can be obtained. These jackets range in price from $50 nylon jackets and $100 waterproof-breathable models to $150 "semi-dry" tops.

The obvious question, then, is "should I buy a wetsuit or a drysuit?" Let's consider the trade-offs for each type of cold-water clothing.

The main difference between a wetsuit and a drysuit is that a kayaker wearing a drysuit remains completely dry (except for his head and hands), while a wetsuit wearer gets wet. Staying dry is significantly more comfortable, especially if the water is less than 55°F or so. Therefore, if you plan to get wet (surfing, practicing rescues, or simply playing), a drysuit is probably preferable.

Another important difference is that a wetsuit, because it does not keep the wearer dry, is not effective at colder temperatures like a drysuit is. If you plan to paddle when the water temperature is very cold, a drysuit will keep you safer.