Are you an avid kayaker and confused about what to wear? You don’t need to worry anymore. In this article, we’ll cover the essentials for what you should wear before hitting the water in your kayak. Paddle in comfort and safety with the right attire – so let’s get started!
Kayaking is a sport that many outdoor enthusiasts enjoy, but like any outdoor activity, preparation is key. Knowing what to wear while kayaking will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience in whatever type of water you are navigating. Whether you are a recreational paddler, racing competitor or expedition paddler, the right clothing and gear can make a big difference.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the things to think about when choosing your kayaking wardrobe so that you can stay comfortable and take on any body of water with confidence!
What Do You Wear When Kayaking
When planning a kayaking excursion, choosing the right clothing is critical to a successful and safe experience. Layering your clothing can help make sure you’re comfortable no matter what the weather turns out to be. Start with a specialized base layer next to your skin; either synthetic or wool fabric will do the trick. Make sure you don’t wear cotton, as this material retains moisture and can cause coolness or even hypothermia in certain sea temperatures.
Above that, add an insulating layer for extra warmth before getting into your drysuit or other waterproof garments. Drysuits are usually made from breathable fabrics such as Gore-tex or neoprene that come with built-in insulation so you’ll stay warm and dry while allowing accumulated perspiration to escape outward instead of inward where it won’t keep your body temperature steady.
For extra protection, windproof jackets and trousers should be worn over the drysuit if the weather is cold or windy — just make sure they fit comfortably but snugly so water doesn’t get in if you capsize. To finish off your outfit, opt for splashproof shoes to keep feet dry and protected from sharp rocks in shallow waters — spray skirts might also be useful when paddling in rougher seas as they fit snugly around the waist and help prevent water from coming through into the cockpit area of your kayak.
Footwear
When kayaking, it’s important to wear the appropriate footwear. Not only will your feet be protected from the elements and from any sharp objects, but you’ll also maximize your comfort and performance when being on the water. Even if you plan on just wading in shallow waters, you should consider wearing something to protect your feet.
The best shoes to wear while kayaking are shoes that are specifically designed for water sports. These traditionally include water shoes, sandals with a strap (Tevas work well) or boat shoes — which are specially designed for wet environment use. Water shoes tend to be lightweight and able to dry quickly but can sometimes be pricey; boat shoes are ideal if you plan on walking over rocks or other rough surfaces; sandals offer extra protection while keeping your feet cool. No matter which type of footwear you choose, make sure to select a pair with good grip so that slipping is minimized when in and around water surfaces. And thick soles help create an extra cushion for constantly standing in your kayak!
Accessories
When kayaking, you’ll want to wear clothes that can get wet, such as a wetsuit or polyester rash guard. It’s also important to cover your head with a hat or visor and use sunglasses to protect your eyes from splashing water and bright sun rays. Layer your clothing so you can easily adjust the level of warmth as necessary.
In addition, accessories like spray skirts and dry bags are essential for keeping items dry and secure while kayaking. Wear footwear that will provide plenty of grip on wet surfaces, like non-slip shoes with rubber soles. If there is a risk of falling in the water, consider wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) or life vest that fits snugly without being too constrictive. Last but not least, keep an eye on the weather conditions and bring along an emergency kit with supplies such as water, snacks and first aid supplies for added safety.
Layering For Cold Weather
Kayaking can be a great way to get outdoors and enjoy nature, but when the temperatures drop you have to remember the importance of layering for cold weather. Layering your clothing is key when preparing for kayaking in cold weather, as this provides an added layer of insulation against the cold and ensures you stay warm and comfortable.
The top layer should always be water repellent or waterproof material to help keep you dry in case of any splashes or light rain. Look for fabrics specifically made with quick-dry technology, which make the fabric breathable while wicking moisture away from the body. Make sure that your top layer fits close to your body without being too tight; it should come up high to cover your neck, wrists and even cover part of your face if needed. Consider wearing a thin hat as more protection against any wind chill or unexpected rain.
For the middle layer, look for materials that offer warmth without bulk. Synthetic fabrics like polyester fleece are great options because they are lightweight and effective at conserving body heat while still allowing some breathability during activity. A lightweight fleece jacket is an ideal choice for kayaking because it’s thin enough not to interfere with movement yet offers extra insulation against chillier temperatures on the water.
Finally, choose a bottom-layer fabric that’s designed to maximize warmth without compromising agility on your kayak trip. Fleece leggings are a good option here as they provide enough insulation throughout all areas of exposure but won’t interfere with movement in tight spaces like most bulky sweatpants would; try adding an additional base layer like long johns if necessary according to prevailing temperatures. Keep a spare pair of dry clothes in a plastic bag from complete protection from any unforeseen weather conditions or unplanned swims during paddling adventures!
UV Protection
When participating in kayaking or paddle sports, it is important to always be mindful of your skin’s safety and the general climate of the environment. Wearing the right apparel is an essential part of enjoying these activities and practicing good sun safety. The best way to ensure that you are protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays while kayaking is to cover up with long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses while on the water. Additionally, it is essential to wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on any exposed areas of skin.
Even when wearing protective clothing, it is important to apply sunscreen all over your body as sunscreen will provide additional protection from damaging UV rays and guard against sunburn. A comprehensive UV protection strategy can help maximize your chances for a safe and enjoyable time out on the water. Additionally, consider bringing extra layers so that you can adjust based on weather conditions or renewable needs during your trip!
Waterproofing
When kayaking, it is important to wear the correct clothing to protect you from the elements and provide adequate waterproofing. It is important to remember that a few thin layers worn close to the skin will keep you more comfortable than one thick layer of fabric. The best fabrics for kayaking are ones that are lightweight, non-absorbent and quick drying. These materials help keep you warm and dry and make paddling more comfortable by minimizing drag in the water. Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon are good choices as they dry quickly if they get wet. Neoprene is another good material choice, as it offers great insulation while being lightweight and quick-drying.
In addition to wearing multiple layers of waterproof fabric, there are several pieces of gear that can help enhance your comfort levels while kayaking. When in colder climates, consider investing in a good thermal top or vest for extra warmth on those colder days. A windproof jacket or spray deck can help keep wind away from your face on fast downwind runs or when sea kayaking during storms. A wetsuit can also be beneficial if you tend to take longer trips out on colder water temperatures. For safety reasons, it’s also recommended that paddlers wear an appropriate life jacket at all times when out on the water.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to select clothing that will keep you comfortable and safe when kayaking. Wearing the appropriate clothing, including a wetsuit or drysuit, should be at the top of your list. In addition, wearing a personal floatation device and a helmet can help you stay afloat in the event of an emergency. Take weather conditions into account when selecting your outfit and make sure you are familiar with any additional safety measures required by local authorities. Knowing what to wear when kayaking is key to having an enjoyable and safe experience on the water.
