A canoeing cag (short for cagoule) is a simple pullover garment, but shorter than an adventure cagoule to fit better with a canoe spray deck. Since you sit in the boat they don't need to be long and thus avoid extra bulk.

Spray Tops

Cags are essentially spray tops. The keep wind and spray off you. Worn over a base layer, a cag is ideal for many water sports like canoeing, sailing, swimming, windsurfing or wet fun games. It protects you from wind, rain and the cold while still allowing maximum freedom of movement.

Features

Most cags have just a short zip or a Velcro fastener on the front. Some cags have a secure pocket for keys and money, which is great for open water swimming, when you swim a good distance from one point to another, leaving nothing behind on the beach. Pull-it-on-and-go simplicity.

Size and Fit

Canoeing cags usually come without a hood and are generously sized to allow layering. Although the fabric is waterproof, they won't keep you dry when you go through big waves or capsize your boat. Water will enter through the collar and soak your clothes underneath, depending on how tight you seal it. Some sailing tops have a tighter fit so they don't pick up too much water during a fast ride or when dipping into the water whilst on the trapeze.

Resistance Swimming Training

For your next swimming session wear a canoeing cag on top of your usual swimwear. Once you have gained some confidence add rain pants for extra resistance. You can vary the resistance level by wearing extra sports clothes underneath.

Canoeing Cags great for swimming resistance training and should always be in your swimming bag. Most swimming pools have no problem with it because the fabric sheds no fluff to clog up their filters.

Being quite robust, they offer a good resistance workout without the risk of injury. They also provide some buoyancy when air gets trapped inside.

Depending on the design cags hold more or less water when swimming. Canoeing cags sometimes have wider sleeves to allow for more freedom of movement.

Reader Comment: Aquatic Training Outfit

My canoeing cags are great for many water sports, not just canoeing. They fit so well that I have full freedom of movement.

I have some cags with a hood, but most come with a neoprene collar to keep too much water from flowing in, which is good when you wear a cag for swimming.

Combined with a thermal top, jeans, socks and light shoes I have a robust swimming outfit that keeps me warm in and around the water. I prefer a brightly coloured cag so I can be seen by boats and not get run over.

For resistance swim training I wear a cag over a heavy tee-shirt or sweatshirt which soaks up water for extra weight. About 2-3 litres of water collect in the sleeves, providing a good heavy workout. The neoprene cuffs keep the water in for a consistent training level. Sweatpants or baggy jeans make this a really tough exercise, which I enjoy a lot.

Gareth, England