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Whitewater rafting is all about being splashed with water. Cold water in cold climates, and warm water in warm ones. When dressing for a cold-water expe- rience think seriously about wetsuits or fast-drying, warm synthetics. In North America, South America and New Zealand, the earlier in the season, the more you'll want a wetsuit. As the air temperature warms, you'll be happier" in top- end synthetics, although people particularly sensitive to cold will want to bring a dry-top along. If you're going with an outfitter, all you'll need are watershoes, sun- glasses and a sleeping bag. Outfitters typically rent wetsuits by the day, but quality and fit often pose problems. If whitewater rafting is a sport you intend to commit to, an investment in a farmer-john·style wetsuit is a good beginning. More than anything, you need good footwear. Expect to be walk- ing on rocky riverbeds, beaches and trails whenever you're off the water. If you're going to hike a lot, bring Patagonia's Wading Shoe (800-638.6464, www.patagonia.com. $130) with sturdy construction and a sole built for trac- tion on wet surfaces. You'll also need solid footwear to help your foot stay sta- ble in the boat. The well-designed and comfortable Chaco Z/2 5.10 sandals 070'527-4990, www.chacosan.com. $100) are a good bet if you're spending most of your time in the boat. Or try the newest from an old reliable-Teva Spitfire LC (800-367-8382, www.teva.com. $79.95) with Lateral Control (LC) toe piece, heel shank stabilizer and the Universal Strapping System will give you the support you'll need on any boat and you can swim in them. Put eyewear second on the list. Water Jacket sunglasses from Oakley (800-336-3994, www.oakley.com. $185) are designed to let you see through the spray with frames and lenses that have weep holes to prevent fog- ging. As refreshing as the water feels during the day, it also dehydrates you and spends a good part of the day slapping you around. Bring along plen- ty of hand lotion for your entire body, and for those big rapid days when you have to clear the sand and sun from your eyes, a little Visine. A good dry bag will keep your gear warm and usable. Jack's Plastic Welding Inc in Aztec, NM, makes great dry bags. They also make Paco Pads, the Cadillac of sleeping pads, which will allow you to rest up for the next day on the water (505-334-8748, www.jpwinc.com. dry bags $27-plus, pads $97- plus). If you're going to bring your own wetsuit, rather than slip into one that's been worn by the masses, Rainbow Designs wetsuits (800'759-0342, www.rainbowdesigns.com. $110) will keep you warm on the FutaleufU and Karnali, while a dry-top is better for spring on the Chattooga. Opt for Lotus Designs' Nemo, available through Patagonia (800-638-6464, www.patagonia.com. $325). Patagonia Capilene long johns ($32-plus) or light· weight expedition fleece ($49·plus) set the standard for synthetic options, with uniquely treated wicking materials that keep sweat off your skin, and are great under a wetsuit. Bring along a PFD from Lotus by Patagonia. The Lola ($99.00) or Lola Pro ($125) are best for rafting. Anatomically, they are especially good for women. Both models include the usual gadgets: mesh pockets, clip-on knife holder and approximately 16 pounds of flotation. Lotus Designs also makes a neoprene Skull Cap ($29) that keeps your head toasty, while a pair of Hypalon Perfect Curves from Glacier Gloves (800-728-8235, www.glacierglove.com. $40) will do the same for your hands.-Ken Harris