How to find the perfect wetsuit for Colorado whitewater rafting
When the weather is windy or the water is a little on the cool side for Colorado rafting, wetsuits are the perfect solution. Today’s wetsuits take advantage of the most advanced fabric and stitching options to create a suit that can keep you warm, wet, and happy, whether you’re surfing or white water rafting in Colorado. However, with the hundreds of wetsuits available by dozens of manufacturers, choosing the perfect suit for you can get a little overwhelming. We’re going to go over some tips you can use so you know when you’ve found the perfect fit—and if you’re still in any doubt, give us a call at 719.395.2112. Our rafting company has over three decades of experience in whitewater rafting Colorado, and we can help you get in the right suit and out on the water.
First, let’s talk about the options. There are several categories that affect wetsuit fit and performance, but we’re going to focus on three general ones—stitching, closures, and thickness.
Stitching: Overlock stitching is durable but not watertight, and its protruding seam can irritate the skin. Flatlock stitching is also not watertight and is less durable that overlock stitching, but is less likely to irritate the skin since the stich lies flatter. Blindstitching is the least durable of all, but makes up for this with the highest level of comfort and the only waterproof seam (which keeps you warmer).
Closures: There are three main options for wetsuit closures—back zippers, shoulder zippers, and no zippers. While choosing between the three is more of a personal preference than anything else, pay attention to how comfortable you feel with swimming or paddling motions. Zippers create stiffness and inflexibility in the back and shoulders, so if that doesn’t work for you, consider choosing the no-zipper option.
Thickness: This is an important factor, as the thickness of your wetsuit determines how comfortable you will be with lower temperatures of water. If you have a low tolerance for cold, or plan to spend significant time in colder bodies of water, make sure you take that into account by investing in a thicker, warmer wetsuit.
There are several things to watch for that mean a suit is not the right fit for you. If you’re having difficulty moving, speaking, breathing, etc., the suit is obviously too tight—a problem that will only intensify over time as the suit shrinks and hardens with age. If the suit is too loose, it will carry extra water and slow you down, not to mention prevent you from staying warm.
When you’ve found a suit that doesn’t pinch, sag, or make you look like a killer whale, think carefully about how much time you’re going to spend in the suit. If you’re a weekend warrior, choosing a less durable (and therefore, less expensive) suit may make the most sense. If you’re a regular triathlete, don’t go halfway with a lower-quality suit you’ll have to replace sooner rather than later.
And if you’re looking for an excuse to wear your new wetsuit, look no further than our Colorado rafting trips and specials. With land-and water-based adventures ranging from horseback riding to Royal Gorge rafting, you’re bound to find the perfect vacation for you. For more information on Colorado white water rafting, or to check out our family trips and large-group discounts and start planning your Colorado rafting trip, go to www.inaraft.com.
Extreme rafting adventures on Royal Gorge and Numbers
Many of our guests gravitate towards our trips that combine a wilderness rafting experience with a healthy degree of safety. But if you’re looking for a wilder experience while white water rafting Colorado, we have the perfect trips for you, too. Wilderness Aware has been rafting Class V rapids in the most challenging sections of river around the state for years, and we’ve used that experience to create the best extreme Colorado rafting trips. Are you an experienced rafter looking for a more intense adventure? Take a look at our extreme Colorado white water rafting trips in Royal Gorge or Numbers, and get ready for the ride of a lifetime.
Rafting Royal Gorge on the Arkansas River is the most popular extreme trip in the state for good reason. Drop after drop of pounding whitewater framed by stunning sheer cliffs means heart-pounding excitement for you and your friends—and stories you’ll be talking about for years to come. If you’re worried about getting thrown into the fray too quickly, don’t: we spend the morning warming up for Royal Gorge rafting in the scenic Lower Bighorn Sheep Canyon, a picturesque stretch of whitewater where the rapids are similar to those found in Browns Canyon. After a picnic lunch, we’ll take the plunge into one of the most exciting spots for white water rafting in Colorado. Don’t miss the views of the world’s highest suspension bridge (1,053 feet!), the world’s longest single-span Aerial Tram, and the world’s steepest incline railway.
If you want to take your experience rafting Colorado a step further, consider our trip down the Numbers section of the Arkansas River. The trip begins in a steep, rocky upper section of the river, where precision paddling and maneuvering are musts. The rapids come hard, fast, and close together in this section, while your guides scout for resting spots. After lunch comes the Narrows section of the river, where the action mellows out a bit but continues to put your rafting skills to the test. The trip ends at the beach where your car is parked, which means you’re just a short walk away from our office, a steaming mug of hot chocolate, and photos from your trip.
Both trips test your skills and amp up the adventure of your rafting experience. For more information on the best spots for rafting in Colorado or Buena Vista whitewater rafting, visit www.inaraft.com. Whether it’s a family vacation or an extreme rafting adventure, we have everything you need to make your Colorado rafting trip the memory of a lifetime.
Take advantage of our Facebook/Google+ Whitewater Rafting Discount!
Disneyland is fun, but let’s be honest—everyone loves to “one up” their friends (even if you aren’t willing to admit it) on a unique summer vacation. And what better way to do it than by having a Colorado white water rafting adventure? When you come home from your Colorado rafting trip, you’ll get to show off photos of you soaked and having a blast—not to mention your new extensive knowledge of Colorado geology, history, and wildlife-related trivia. (And with any luck, you’ll have a cheesy joke or two to boot.) You’ll hold the unofficial title of “Best Summer Vacationer” until next year, when your friends convince you to bring them along too.
If you’re ready to be under the stars and let the sounds of the river lull you to sleep, this deal just got even better. This discount allows you to have your first pick of trip dates, which means in no time you could be rafting Colorado. Whether it’s a five-day epic adventure on the Arkansas River or a relaxing two days on the Upper Colorado, Wilderness Aware Rafting has the experience and resources to make your multi-day trip an adventure of a lifetime. Why worry about keeping up with the Joneses when you can pass them?
This year, let Wilderness Aware Rafting help you show your friends you’re more than a workaholic by rafting in Colorado with our discount. Simply “like” us on Facebook and post a few words about how excited you are, or join us on Google Plus and share our page, and you can use the promo code “SOCIALPOST” while booking a trip and receive a 10% discount on any whitewater rafting trip. Remember, book by March 15th to take advantage of this awesome offer!
Remember that this offer only applies to the adult rate on new rafting and biking reservations, and it cannot be combined with other discounts or group rates. If you have any questions, or are ready to make your friends envious of your ingenuity, schedule your trip using this discount. You can do this by giving us a call at 800-462-7238 or book online and enter SOCIALPOST.
For more information on white water rafting in Colorado—whether it’s Royal Gorge rafting or other Colorado land or rafting trips—visit www.inaraft.com. See you in the water!
Plan your perfect Colorado whitewater rafting trip!
Are you looking into planning a Colorado whitewater rafting getaway, but don’t know where to start? Between finding the right rafting company, the right deal, and the right trip location, pulling a rafting vacation together can be overwhelming. Here’s a quick breakdown of our different rafting locations and trip specials to help you find everything you need in one place. Once you’ve got a feel for what we have to offer, you can find more Colorado rafting trip information here or book a rafting trip.
The more, the merrier… Planning a large trip? If you have a group of 21 people or more, and you want to stay together as a group on the river, your best options will be trips on the Arkansas or Upper Colorado rivers. White water rafting Colorado with a large group can double your fun and adventure when you’re on the right river with the best guides—and Wilderness Aware can give you both.
…But size isn’t everything. For groups smaller than 21 people, a more intimate wilderness setting is a great choice. The North Platte River in northern Colorado or the Dolores River in southern Colorado may be just what you’re looking for. With frequent wildlife sightings, unmatched scenery, and a slower pace, these rivers can offer you a retreat you’ll talk about for years to come.
If you’re going even smaller with 10 people or less, start by taking a look at our trips on the Gunnison River. With a setting that’s stunning as well as intimate, this trip gives visitors the most remote and exclusive rafting experience Colorado has to offer. A smaller group allows you to have a trip that can be a bonding experience as well as a great adventure.
Weekend warrior? If you’re looking for rafting near Denver, you’ll want to consider our trips on the Arkansas River. Made the most popular river in Colorado by its continuous rapids and ready access to Colorado’s front range cities such as Denver and Colorado Springs, these trips provide a shot of adventure and still allow you to get home and unwind. The best choice for white water rafting near Denver and Colorado Springs!
Whether you’re looking for Colorado horseback riding or Royal Gorge rafting, we’re here to make it happen. Don’t forget to check out our information on planning trips for youth groups, Boy and Girl Scout troops, or other special groups. The above rivers can serve as a great starting place for planning your trip, but for more information on rafting Colorado or planning a Colorado rafting vacation, give us a call at 719.395.2112 or visit us at www.inaraft.com.
Stay classy in the water- read on to see which rapids are right for you.
It’s a cold, hard fact: whitewater rafting in Colorado is a fantasy shared by many. Whether you haven’t yet had the chance to get on the river or you’re a seasoned professional, you may find that as summer draws nearer it’s hard to keep rafting in Colorado off your mind. But before you hit the waves, it’s vital to understand what class of rapids you’re prepared for. In whitewater rafting, if you take on a river that’s outside your skill level as a rafter, you can quickly get in over your head—so before you head out on your Arizona rafting adventure, read on for a quick brush-up on what class is right for you.
If you are looking for a mild float down the river you may consider Class I rapids. They allow you to take in the beautiful surrounding scenery and catch some sun without having to focus too much on paddling. This is a perfect place to start with more mature family members or young kids who are just looking to get their feet wet.
Class II rapids - at this level, you can expect quicker water with occasional rocks and wave trains. Class II sections might require maneuvering, which means they’re a great way to start learning your paddling commands.
If this is your first time rafting and you want to see some moderately difficult rapids look to Class III rapids. With irregular waves and obstacles to maneuver around, this classification provides a great ride while still being suitable for all levels of experience. Get ready for a great time!
When you bump it up a notch to Class IV, you’ll meet long and powerful rapids, with standing waves and hydraulics—all which require quick, linked maneuvers in order to navigate through it. At Class V, those with advanced whitewater rafting experience can take on long, continuous violent rapids, filled with obstructions and the potential for large drops and steep gradient that require mandatory precise maneuvers.
Rapids ranking, Class VI are considered unrunnable. This is due to irregularly water surges, obstacles that make the passage unclear, potentially huge drops, and other hazards that may or may not be visible. These sections are dangerous even for expert paddlers, and come with the warning of “danger to life or limb”— not to be taken lightly.
Use these guidelines when picking your trip. With rafting vacations covering five of these classes, you’re bound to find the perfect river for you. Whether you’re looking for Colorado Springs whitewater rafting or Salt River rafting trips, our expert guides will keep you afloat and having the time of your life. For more information on rafting in Colorado, visit us at www.inaraft.com.
What Do Colorado Whitewater Rafting and Snow Sports Have in Common?
With winter in full swing, snow sport enthusiasts are flocking to Colorado to ski, board, and snowshoe to their heart’s content. For those of you who bleed powder, we wanted to say two things: first, you should get that checked out, and second, snow sports and Colorado white water rafting trips may be more similar than you think.
Adrenaline fix: As anyone who’s tried Royal Gorge rafting can tell you, skiing isn’t the only way to get your blood pounding. (Check out our Royal Gorge rafting trips and try it for yourself if you don’t believe us.) There’s nothing quite like navigating down a lightning-quick series of rapids with just your strength and wits—and your experienced instructor, of course—to guide you. If pushing yourself physically and mentally is your thing, get out there and ski to your heart’s content. And this summer, when you’re starting to go into low-level adrenaline withdrawal, book one of our Colorado raft trips. We’ll make sure you have the adventure of a lifetime.
Beautiful scenery: We’ve all heard about the skiing at Breckenridge, but you might be surprised to know the rafting near Breckenridge is in a class all its own as well. Check out this stunning area of Colorado when it’s not covered in snow, and you might be surprised by the view. Wind through stunning canyons and vistas, spot wildlife in the Rockies, feel the sun on your face, and enjoy this iconic Colorado location when you can feel all of your extremities. There’s just no doubt about it—Breckenridge rafting is a hard act to follow.
Strength training: Rafting and skiing are indisputably two of the hardest workouts available in outdoor sports. Both involve turning, twisting, flailing, and general intense physical activity until you’re either out of the water or at the base of the mountain. If you’re worried about your sculpted snowboarding abs disappearing with the snow, remember that rafting has no match for working your core muscles. Not to mention it has the added benefit of going easy on your knees.
Superior instruction: Remember that ten-minute intro you had when you started skiing? Sure, it was great at the time—but when push came to shove and it was time to hit the bunny slopes, it was all you. With our Colorado river rafting trips, you get the benefit of an experienced guide who stays with you through the good, the bad, and the flat-out scary. Our guides lead your trips, serve as medics, cook your meals using only fresh ingredients…you get the picture. Outdoor sports are good. Outdoor sports when someone else is making you dinner are great.
We hope you now have a different perspective on how boarding Colorado and river rafting Colorado aren’t so different after all—except for warmer weather and better tan lines. For more information on whitewater rafting near Buena Vista, or to book one of our Colorado raft trips, go to www.inaraft.com. Have fun on the slopes this winter, and we’ll see you on the river.
Summer Whitewater Rafting Discount!
We know that one of your resolutions for this New Year was to get out on the river this summer for some Colorado white water rafting—so we decided to make it even easier for you. Starting now, book a Colorado whitewater rafting adventure before February 1st, and we’ll take 10% off your trip with our Summer Whitewater Discount!
So when you’re braving traffic in the midst of a snowstorm or shoveling your driveway before leaving for work, don’t despair. Take that time to plan your debut into Dolores River rafting, or imagine the way that Colorado sun will feel on your face while you sail over those Royal Gorge rapids. Your friends may mock you for daydreaming about rafting Colorado while the weather forecast predicts record-setting snowfall, but when summer rolls around you’ll get the last laugh. (You can even invite them along, if you feel like taking the high road.)
If you want to pick a multi-day trip, this deal just got even better. This discount allows you to keep your trip dates as flexible as possible, which means in a matter of months you could be rafting the Arkansas River from top to bottom, or exploring Browns Canyon one day and Lower Bighorn Sheep Canyon the next. Whether it’s a five-day wilderness adventure on the Arkansas River or fly fishing in the Gunnison River Gorge, Wilderness Aware Rafting has the experience and resources to make your trip the adventure of a lifetime.
And for those who want to keep their feet on the ground this summer, don’t forget this discount also applies to our downhill mountain biking adventures! Book a trip this month and you could be basking in the alpine beauty of the Rockies while heading down the Continental Divide, or exploring a mountain biking trail meandering along the historic Midland Railroad Grade.
Remember: this offer applies to the adult rate on new rafting and biking reservations only, and it can’t be combined with other discounts or group rates. If you have any questions, or want to take the plunge and schedule your trip using this discount, give us a call at 800-462-7238. You can also book online and enter our Summer Whitewater Discount promo code, WINTERFUN.
With our Colorado whitewater rafting discount, book a rafting trip, save some cash, and feel free to pat yourself on the back for keeping the most important New Year’s resolution on your list. For more information on Buena Vista whitewater rafting, or to check out our Colorado white water rafting trips, visit us at www.inaraft.com. See you in the water!
Stay out of the water this winter with our Colorado land-based adventures.
Yes, we’re a rafting company, and yes, we love the river. But since the weather’s still too chilly for planning Colorado white water rafting trips—and if you’re looking to explore the Rockies on more solid ground—don’t miss the other adventures Wilderness Aware Rafting has to offer. Our guide-led jeep tours, horseback trail rides and mountain bike tours guarantee that we have what you’re looking for.
Horseback Trail Rides
If you want to hit the trail but you’re over hiking, we have the solution. Saddle up on one of our Colorado horseback rides and let us help you discover why horseback riding is this state’s second most popular outdoor activity. The closest horseback rides are located near the Arkansas River, with our shorter rides following a cottonwood-lined creek with views of the valley’s majestic Mt. Princeton and our longer horseback rides climbing the edge of adjacent Mt. Antero. Additional horseback riding options include trips over beautiful forest service land northwest of Leadville and along the base of Pike’s Peak in Colorado Springs.
Whether you want to thrill your child with a 30-minute pony ride, take the whole family along for an hour on a horse-drawn wagon ride, or spend a full day exploring Colorado on horseback, we can make it happen. Horseback rides require a minimum of two people to sign up, and most trips run year-round, making this a great option for cooler weather. Check out our Colorado horseback riding trips today, and we’ll see you on the trail.
Mountain Bike Tours
Want to get a little closer to the ground? Take one of our Colorado mountain bike tours and prepare for the ride of a lifetime. Fun for beginners as well as experienced mountain bikers, this trip comes in two options. The first is a downhill paved road from 12,000 feet on the Continental Divide, where you will experience spectacular views of the Arkansas River Valley’s numerous 14,000-foot tall peaks as you soar through pristine aspen groves and high mountain pine forests alongside one of our experienced mountain bike guides.
The second option is exploring the historic Midland Railroad Grade, a quiet mountain dirt road and single track trail that winds past stunning views of the 14,000 ft. Collegiate Peaks. The dirt trail option brings the pace down a notch and lets you enjoy the surrounding beauty of the Colorado Rockies while incorporating some technical bike maneuvering. Whether you’re on your bike every weekend or this is your first time mountain biking in Colorado, we have a set of wheels for you. For more information on joining us for a Colorado mountain biking trip, go to www.inanraft.com.
Jeep tours
For a safari-style tour of the Colorado Rockies, nothing beats one of our Colorado jeep tours. On one of our half-day trips, you can discover groves of ancient bristlecone pines nestled at the top of Mt. Princeton or visit the unique ghost town of St. Elmo. Or, take a full day and ride up a rugged switch backed trail to the summit of Colorado’s Mt. Antero, one of the best areas in the United States for mineral and gem collecting. Whichever trip you choose, our jeep tours guarantee to give you an unforgettable adventure—and leave both your hands free for picture-taking. Book a Colorado jeep tour today!
For more information on rafting Colorado, or to check out Buena Vista whitewater rafting trips, go to www.inaraft.com.
Stay in shape for Colorado rafting
You can’t start rafting Colorado for a while yet, but that doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel. Use the winter months ahead to give yourself the skills and conditioning you need to take on white water rafting in Colorado when the weather is right. Kick back and enjoy your holiday season—but don’t forget to check out these pointers to make sure that when summer rolls back around, you’re back on your game ASAP.
Consider a certification. A great way to break that cold-weather inertia, spice up your resume and give yourself a better skill set for rafting is by gaining one (or more) certifications. If Colorado white water rafting is your thing, then think about getting your Wilderness First Aid certification through an organization like NOLS. Getting current Red Cross certifications in CPR and first aid—or bumping it up with a class that teaches wilderness survival skills—will give you a new level of confidence when rafting and train you in skills you may need to help save a life.
Hit the slopes- or the gym. As many of you know, the great state of Colorado has a sport for everyone, no matter the season. Take advantage of the advent of skiing and boarding season, and keep your body conditioned for rafting while having a blast. Even lower-key snow activities like snowshoeing keep your muscles active, so get out there and show some snow love.
And we know—getting on a boating machine at the local Y isn’t quite the same as getting out on the Arkansas River. But if winter sports aren’t your thing and you want to keep your body in the best possible shape for rafting, consider biting the bullet and getting a membership. If you want to try out some Royal Gorge rafting come spring, your muscles will need to be in training now and in the months ahead.
Set a goal. With new year’s just around the corner, it’s time to think about what you want to do when the Colorado white water rafting season rolls back around. Is there a particular location you’ve never been? A higher class of rapids you want to try? Go for it—the way to stay in love with rafting is by finding new ways to challenge yourself. If you need some inspiration, check out our Brown’s Canyon rafting trips and other Colorado whitewater rafting trips. Whatever it is you want to do differently this summer, Colorado rafting has something for everyone. Start thinking about what you want to do this summer sooner rather than later, so you can make sure it happens.
Do your part. Without Colorado rivers, there would be no rafting in Colorado—so if you want to stay on some of the most beautiful liquid real estate in the state, make sure you’re informed about legislation concerning them. Stay updated on concerns with Colorado rivers so if they need your help, you can give back.
Remember, rafting is like football—there’s really no off season. Do what you can now to make rafting this summer the most memorable experience possible. For more information, or to plan a Colorado rafting vacation, visit www.inaraft.com.
Looking for the perfect gift? This Christmas, think outside the box.
As temperatures drop and the holidays draw closer, whitewater rafting in Colorado may be the last thing on your mind. But if you’re still in the market for the perfect present for that outdoorsy friend or relative, consider giving them the gift of adventure with a Colorado rafting trip gift certificate from Wilderness Aware Rafting.
The certificates come in two options so you can craft the best gift for your lucky recipient. If your sister’s been planning that Browns Canyon rafting trip since the snow started falling, bring her closer to that light at the end of the tunnel with a custom gift certificate under the tree. Choose a specific trip destination and length to give your loved one the day—or week—of their dreams. Whether it’s a Family Splash ‘n Dash on the Arkansas River or a challenging Royal Gorge rafting adventure, we have the perfect getaway for your family and friends (and you!)
And if you know that special someone eats, drinks, and breathes Colorado whitewater rafting—but you’re not quite sure where they’re raring to go—you don’t have to give away the game by asking. Give a gift certificate in whatever amount you would like, and let them worry about how to spend it. Give a little more and make their dream of rafting Colorado a reality, or give a little less and rent a wetsuit for them. Either way, you’ve shown them you care by giving them what they want the most—another excuse to get on the river this summer.
Customize your Wilderness Aware Rafting gift certificate today to share some fun in the outdoors and give a gift they’ll never forget. Use the form to purchase a gift certificate for one of our most popular whitewater rafting trips. And when the weather starts warming up, don’t forget to book the trip early in advance and secure your spot—a gift certificate doesn’t reserve a space on a specific trip.
If you don’t see the trip you want on the list, don’t despair. If you’d like to purchase a gift certificate for a different trip—or you want to purchase a gift certificate for a horse, bike, or jeep tour—just give us a call at 800.462.7238. We’re here to make your Colorado rafting dream a reality.
This Christmas, forget socks and fruitcake. Give the ones you love best the gift of adventure with one of our whitewater raft trips—and if you’re feeling generous, bump it up to a trip for two and come along. Hey, you’ve earned it. For more information on planning your Colorado rafting trip, visit www.inaraft.com.
