THE ALBERNI POST

IN OUR DECEMBER ISSUE
Winter Wonder: Paddling in the 'off' season
What's Neat! Yaktrax!
What's Neat: Merino wool-No GST/PST!
What's happening: Christmas Shopping!
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NEWS from  the 'POST 
Dear Reader: 
 
Merry Christmas! May you know the joy and peace of this holiday season. Wishing you nothing but the best,
 
your friends at Alberni Outpost.
Winter Wonder: Paddling in the 'off' season shoes 
 
Winter kayaking is not the most obvious sport. Most of us would rather crawl back under the covers than tackle the icy air. Yet the hidden pleasures of winter kayaking keep a few of us coming back for more and cause this unlikely pastime to gain more followers each year.
 

The crisp and silent seas are often the perfect place to observe wildlife. Here you will find glassy solitude. Even the rainy days can be interesting, adding an eerie and slightly surreal atmosphere to your paddle.
 
None of the magic matters however, if you're uncomfortable. In order to stay on the water long and because of the very real danger of falling into cold water, it's important to be properly dressed.
 
 
Winter gearAn excellent base layer is a neoprene wetsuit. A sleeveless farmer john or farmer jane is good because these cuts won't restrict movement as you paddle. For your upper body, one, or even several thermal base layers will help you manage moisture and stay warm. A base layer is a close-fitting garment of either wool or synthetic material.
 
For very cold conditions, you might want to pull on a fleece as well.
 
You may not need to wear much more on your legs because they will be protected from the elements by your kayak. Still, standing around on the beach can get chilly. It's always nice to wear a pair of paddling pants to retain body heat and protect you from the wind.
 
Wear a paddling top: something that is waterproof and will cut the wind. Some paddling tops come with latex gaskets at the wrists and neck. Gaskets will keep water out but there's a good chance you'll become too warm as you exercise.  Once again, your choice depends on you and the type of conditions you paddle in.
 
Remember your life jacket! Not only does it help retain body heat at your core, life jackets are difficult to put on in the water−especially when it's cold.
 
If there's a chance that you might fall in, we highly recommend investing in a dry suit. Cold water can be deadly. If you're not properly dressed, hypothermia could affect you within a few minutes. If a full dry suit is out of your price range, pack a dry bag with extra clothing and stay close to shore.
 
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Travel in small groups. This means there are more people around to help if someone falls in.
 
You will also want to wear neoprene booties, a warm hat, and neoprene mitts.
 
Finally, remember to consider the sun. Even when it's cold out, the glare can still give you a nasty burn. Remember to take sunscreen and sunglasses.
 
Like any outdoor trip, it's important to take note of the weather before you go paddling. Wind is especially troublesome for kayakers. It can whip up nasty chop, drive you off course, or at the very least, simply tire you out. Paddling into a head wind is often fruitless. The best thing is to get to shore and wait it out.

Now that we've discussed the dangers of winter paddling, let's return to where we started: the surreal beauty of an often forgotten world. There's no better time to test your skills and sneak up close to a curious harbour seal. Mix a little adventure into the indoor shopping season. You won't regret it.
 
Go play outside.
What's Neat! Yaktrax!Yaktrax
 
Last year we couldn't stock these ice grippers fast enough.
 
Think of chains for your feet. With metal coils that bite into ice and snow, they slip on easily over your shoes. Last year a customer commented that once she put her yaktrax on, she purposly walked on ice, finding it the easiest path around snowbanks.
 
Properly cared for, the wear on yaktrax is excellent. Yaktrax even come in a pro model for trail runners. With a 90 day warrenty, Yaktrax are an excellent and popular product. 
 
SheepWhat's Neat: Merino Wool- No PST/GST!
Merino wool is known for being the finest and softest wool on the market, making it's products luxurious to the touch and virtually itchless! 
 
The technical benefits of merino wool are also highly sought. Naturally odor resistant, breathable, wicking and quick drying, merino wool is ideal for regulating body temperature. This means it keeps you warm when you need to be warm and cool when you need to be cool.
 
As an in-store Christmas special, our merino wool products, including baselayers, outerwear, gloves and hats, are GST/PST free. The comfy blend of function and fashion makes merino wool a sure hit for anyone on your Christmas list.
 
What's Happening: Christmas Shopping! tree
 
For the entire month of December, Christmas specials are rotating through our stock with featured items upto 40% off! Check in often for new sales. You never know what you might find!
 
 
Merry Christmas!
Sincerely,
 

Richard Antonchuk
Alberni Outpost

10% off all regularly priced winter toques! LOGO

Print or mention this coupon and receive 10% off  winter toques!
 
Offer Expires: Dec. 31st 2009