Sentence:  An alternative is <WSD>pogies</WSD>: mitts that extend over the hands, wrists, and a portion of the paddle shaft. Once <WSD>pogies</WSD> are fitted onto the paddle shaft, kayakers slide their hands into the <WSD>pogie</WSD> tube, where they can grasp the paddle. <WSD>Pogies</WSD> allow direct hand contact with the paddle while offering protection from wind. Offered in either nylon (sometimes fleece lined) or neoprene, <WSD>pogies</WSD> can also provide insulation. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  A protective flap worn on the hands while rowing, to provide grip as well as insulation, and to keep the hands dry to prevent blistering.