As the weather starts to warm up, it’s time to start thinking about what you’ll need to wear when kayaking in colder water. Even though the air temperature may be mild, the water can still be quite chilly, so it’s important to dress appropriately. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best cold water clothing for kayakers and provide some tips on how to stay warm while out on the water.
Underwear
Wearing the right underwear is important for any activity, but it’s especially important when kayaking in cold water. You want to make sure that you’re wearing moisture-wicking underwear that will keep you dry and comfortable. wool or synthetic fabrics are a good choice, as they’ll help to wick away sweat and keep you warm even when wet.
Noncotton sports bras are also a good idea for women, as they’ll provide support and help to keep you warm.
Tops
Rashguards are a must-have for anyone who loves spending time in the water. Whether you’re paddle boarding, surfing, kayaking, or just swimming, a rashguard will protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Rashguards are also quick-drying and stretchy, so they’re comfortable to wear all day long. Plus, their formfitting design means they won’t bunch up or get in the way when you’re paddling or swimming. So if you’re looking for the perfect piece of gear for your next water adventure, be sure to pick up a rashguard!
Bottom
Let’s be honest, when you’re spending a day out on the water, the last thing you want is to be uncomfortable. That’s why it’s important to choose the right bottoms when you’re packing your bag for a day of kayaking. While there are a lot of options out there, it really comes down to two things: comfort and quick-dry fabric. Board shorts or comfortable quick-dry pants are both great choices that will check those boxes. And, bonus, if you happen to take a spill, you won’t have to worry about being weighed down by soaked clothes. So, go ahead and leave the superthin yoga pants at home – they may look good, but they won’t feel good after sitting in a wet
Mid-layer
Many people believe that the only two options for apparel when paddling are a wetsuit and a dry suit. However, there is a third option that is often overlooked- layering. If the conditions don’t require either a wetsuit or a dry suit, then bringing along a fleece jacket or other warm, synthetic mid layer makes sense. Layering provides extra warmth and can be easily removed if you start to get too hot. Plus, it’s always handy to have an extra layer on hand in case of unexpected weather changes. So next time you hit the water, don’t forget to pack a few extra layers- you’ll be glad you did!
Outer-Layer
No one likes being caught in a downpour, but if you’re going to be out on the water, it’s best to be prepared. That’s why a good waterproof/breathable jacket and rain pants are essential for any paddler. If you’re only Expecting light rain, a breathable/water-resistant jacket will do the trick. Of course, no matter what type of jacket you choose, it’s always a good idea to pack a spare set of clothes just in case you get wet. Stay dry out there!
PFD
For those who are considering kayaking but are on the fence about whether or not to wear a personal flotation device (PFD), let us provide some much-needed clarity: always wear a PFD. More specifically, always wear a PFD when kayaking—no matter how close to shore you plan to paddle. We know, we know—wearing a PFD can be cumbersome and, frankly, quite unattractive. But trust us when we say that it is worth it. After all, most drowning accidents happen in close-in waters—but paddlers wearing PFDs are rarely the ones who drown. And in the event that you do capsize, even cool water can feel shocking. A PFD will provide you with the warmth and buoyancy you need to stay afloat until help arrives. So, do yourself a favor and always wear a PFD when paddling. Your life may depend on it.
Footwear
If you’re going to be spending any time around water, it’s important to have the right footwear. Neoprene paddling booties are a great option because they’re lightweight and protect your toes and the bottoms of your feet. They also have a back strap, so they won’t come off your feet easily. water sandals are another option, but they don’t provide as much protection as booties and can collect gravel, sand, and muck underfoot during put-ins and takeouts. Flip-flops are not a good idea because they don’t have a back strap and can easily come off your feet. So when you’re choosing footwear for your next paddling adventure, make sure to get something that will keep your feet protected and comfortable.
Hats
With summer comes the sun, and with the sun comes the need for a good hat. But finding the right hat can be a challenge. First, you need to decide what kind of hat you want. Do you want a wide-brimmed hat to offer maximum sun protection? Or perhaps a cape-style hat for a more stylish look? Once you’ve decided on the style of the hat, it’s important to select the right material. A straw hat is perfect for a day at the beach, but if you’re planning on being out in the sun all day, you’ll want something with a bit more coverage. A cotton or canvas hat will offer more protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Gloves
Anyone who has ever been out on a cold day knows the importance of having gloves. But not just any gloves will do, paddling gloves are specially designed to keep your hands warm while also protecting against blisters. And for those especially cold days, you can’t go wrong with pogies. Pogies fasten to the paddle and you slip your hands inside them, keeping them shielded from the elements while still allowing you to grip the paddle directly. So whether you’re looking to prevent blisters or stay warm on a cold day, paddling gloves are a must-have for any keen paddler.
