ARCATA, CALIFORNIA, (For Immediate Release)— Sun protection is always important, but it is especially important when out on the water as reflection of UV rays off water can increase UV exposure by 25%. For the Spring 2014 Kokatat is introducing a new collection of paddling specific apparel designed to protect kayakers and watersport enthusiasts from the sun's harmful rays.

The Kokatat Destination Paddle Wear collection includes designs for men and women with a UPF 30+ rating. Each garment in the collection contains details to help keep paddlers protected from the sun's harmful rays, like a two-stage flip-up collar to protect the back of your neck.

"We have completely overhauled our sun protection offering, and this new collection has contemporary styling while providing the features and performance that paddlers expect from Kokatat products," said Jeff Turner, Kokatat sales and design manager.

One of the leading products in the collection is the100% polyester lightweight Paddling Shirt available in men's and women's specific models. It features convertible sleeves for weather versatility, extended sleeve cuffs to protect the back of the hand, and a longer back to ensure coverage while seated in a kayak. The shirt also has vertical shoulder vents that provide unimpeded ventilation while wearing a PFD.

The Paddling Pant provides fast drying, comfortable, sun coverage. The pants feature two front jean pockets and a horizontal zippered stash pocket on the left thigh for quick access while seated. Each pant hem contains a micro bungee cord for quick adjustment when entering shallow waters. The men's pant has a zipper fly, a removable nylon webbing belt with a plastic D-ring and traditional belt loops, and is available in a convertible zip-off model. The women's pant has a yoga inspired cut with a comfort stretch waist with snap closure.

The remainder of the collection includes a women's capri, men's and women's surf trunks, hand covers, and three styles of hats.

The Kokatat Destination Paddle Wear collection will be introduced at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in Salt Lake City, UT in late July 2013. The collection will be available nationwide through Kokatat's network of specialty paddling retailers in January 2014.

About Kokatat Inc.
Kokatat has been manufacturing paddling gear in Arcata, California for more than 40 years. At a time when many technical apparel brands were moving manufacturing offshore, Kokatat continued to invest in infrastructure in the United States. Kokatat founder Steve O'Meara was committed to the development of the finest and driest paddling apparel in the world and recognized the need to control and continually evolve the development of our dry wear. In the early days, Kokatat worked closely with W.L. Gore & Associates, makers of GORE-TEX®, to refine the sewing and sealing techniques required for full immersion suits and tops. Today, our hands-on approach to manufacturing continues to set the standard in paddling apparel. Into the water with Kokatat! Please visit www.kokatat.com and follow Kokatat on Facebook and Twitter "@kokatat".