What is a tuilik? A tuilik, also spelled tuiliq, is a traditional paddling garment designed for the cold waters around Greenland. It combines features familiar from three pieces of modern paddling gear: a hood that covers the head like a balaclava, a dry top, and a spray skirt. The one-piece arrangement reminds me of my Kokatat Storm Cag. That is a comparison of the gear, rather than a claim about its design history.
There is a logical reason why I own a tuilik for paddling in Florida. I try to find gear that can be used in a variety of ways. During cooler and rainy days, when I do not want to wear my Kokatat Storm Cag, my polar-bear blond, 1.5-millimeter Bug Head tuilik does a few things. It offers sun protection, keeps me dry when it rains, makes me visible on overcast days, and works as a windbreaker while I camp. The hood can cinch down the opening around my neck. And the best thing of all is the freedom around my waist, because there is no restrictive spray skirt tunnel.
A note on the maker: Scott Bruce closed Bug Head at the end of October 2009. The equipment and custom options described here are part of that history, not current products for sale. His Bug Head Blog remains available as a historical source. The old company and product links have been removed because they now lead to a parked domain.
It also makes a statement. If you own a wood kayak, you have experienced people asking questions about your kayak. Wearing a tuilik creates curiosity too. Bug Head offered Edgy Back Art, six different colors, a foam visor, and the option of a fin or crest on the hood. There were plenty of ways to get a conversation started.
Current manufacturer reference: Kokatat’s current Storm Cag page describes the product offered today. It is not documentation of the exact version I owned when I wrote this article.
More Greenland paddling resources
Explore my Greenland kayaking resources for more on traditional paddles and rolling. The Field Reference Library gathers related reading. For lessons and appointments, visit current kayaking classes and pricing.
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