New to Area

[le noun]

Do you guys recommend booties?
Yes, definitely. At the coast because it's freaking cold and at 3rd ave because of the rocks and broken bottles etc...

gloves?
Well, depends on you. I don't wear any but it certainly hurts some days during the winter.

etc?
Some people wear hoodies. Again, totally up to you. I don't even in the ocean.

How long do people typically last here in colder water?
If wearing the right equipement, you can ride for hours, even in the cold ocean.
Bay is definitely warmer (you can wear a shorty during the summer) and sherman gets really warm during the season (you can spot rob being naked and riding boots sometimes).

Also whats the water like in alameda and 3rd ave?
Alameda: sandy and maybe a little muddy at really really low tide.
A few obstacles marked by buoys. Set up is nice (long sandy beach) but the wind is not as consistent as 3rd ave once the season really kicks in.
3rd ave: mud, mud and a little more mud. Rocks. Broken bottles. Abandoned rusty hooks from fishermen. Basically 2 small launching areas: one easier (the upper launch) and one harder (lower launch).
Lower launch is basically a little more difficult just because of a nasty wind shadow created by the golf course. But I prefer it because: the water gets flatter around the corner created by the golf course, you can also rig up on nice pieces of carpet (when rigging up at the upper launch is done in the mud. which explain why some people rig up at the lower launch and walk to the upper launch), but mostly it's because all the cool kids on the block hang out at the lower launch and drink beers. {_
Anyway, for both sites, it's waist deep water at mid-tide for a looooong time from the beach.
I would definitely recommend to go and see both sites at REALLY low tide so you can see what's underneath you when riding.

Is it deep/shallow?
See above.

Is it full of seaweed?
See above. :mrgreen:

Any random tips from someone who has only been in warm water?
Wear a wetsuit and try not to drink the water inside the bay or at sherman 8)

Congrats and welcome to both of you guys!
Will see you in the water. 8)

[scalhoun2005]

Hey Guys,

Been following your forum for a while and finally decided to start posting.

I've been spoiled with waste deep water for the past few years, so deep/cold water will be a new experience.

Looking forward to seeing you guys out there!

Well, our bay is not the cleanest but certainly better than the waste water you have been kiting in and the water here at the coast will be much cleaner for sure.

haha good eye..

[nathaniel_e]

Thanks a lot for the response le noun!
I'll be sure to try to get booties soon.
Looks like this weekend might be a good day to go out! (crosses fingers)

[le noun]

Anytime. Sunday looks like it's gonna be epic. I'm sad I have to work from 9am to 10pm that day, otherwise I would have coordinate with you at alameda.
But you'll see plenty of nice people there hanging out at the peanut gallery. Just don't be shy and ask people questions.
The launching area at the shack is small so don't rig up your kite and your lines unless you are ready to get wet!
Once you are done riding or even taking a break, please, roll up your lines.
You'll see, it can get pretty crowded on weekends.
Be cool, and bring some beers!

[Tunces]

Once things warm up and thermals start, you will like Sherman.

I second that!