Very simple. I get the least trouble with skin abrasion. As far as I know, no other paddle pants are constructed for use in the seated position.

Lake Tahoe is at 6200 ft high altitude lake- winter temperatures drop to the low forties- Giantfish is what the local OC paddlers wear. I was warned that they were not cheap but the quality was high. When they arrived, I couldn’t believe how well they are made- it is so cool that level of quality technical garments are still made- thank you!

For reference I’m 5,9” 155lbs. If this is you- get a medium! Keeps me toasty in the cold waters of Tahoe!

The biggest barrier to enjoyable paddling is often seated comfort. I've tried most of the neoprene paddling pants on the market, and even had a custom pair made a few years ago. But the Downwind Thermal pants are in their own league! The fit and comfort are superb, to the extent that you forget that you're (frequently) sitting in a pool of cool or cold water. These 3mm pants will be my go-to apparel for about 6 months of the year.

Got the chance to try out some of the early samples and have been, frankly, wearing nothing else since. Super comfy, no chafing, fits like a glove, and each piece (shorts, 1.5, 3m) is perfect for what you want it for.

Every now and again I make a mistake and try some of what I was using before... not wise. 3mil pants are so much warmer then any other brand I've used- and I've tried a few!

Biggest problem is pulling on the wet gear from yesterday's paddle since I don't give them a chance to dry out (did I mention 50+ paddles and the kit still looks great?).