If you’re lucky enough to own a kayak, you probably already know how much fun it is to glide through the water, explore new landscapes and enjoy nature from a whole new viewpoint. But did you know that what you wear can make a huge difference to your kayaking experience?
Whether planning a relaxing paddle down a calm river or an adventurous day in the waves, the right gear can keep you comfortable, safe, and ready to handle whatever the water throws at you. We’ve put together a guide to help you choose what to wear for kayaking.
Why choosing the right clothing is important
Finding the right clothing for your kayaking trips is all about balancing comfort, practicality, and safety. It protects you from the elements and helps prevent any potential discomfort or dangers that could spoil your time on the water, so you can focus on enjoying what you love to do the most.
Best clothing for kayaking in different weather conditions
The weather is one of the most important factors to think about when deciding what clothes to wear kayaking. Your clothing should vary depending on the temperature, wind, and rain. Let’s look at what to wear kayaking in all types of weather.
Warm weather: lightweight clothing for hot conditions
When it’s hot outside, wearing too many layers can lead to discomfort, especially when using energy paddling. What to wear kayaking in warmer conditions should focus on staying cool and preventing sunburns.
- Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing—fabrics like nylon or polyester are great for use in hot weather as they are breathable, quick-drying, and wick sweat away from your skin.
- Sun protection—a long-sleeve shirt or a lightweight jacket will provide much-needed sun protection. Don’t forget a hat with a brim to protect your face, neck, and ears from harmful UV rays.
- UV-protective clothing—some brands offer specialised UV-protective clothing that helps shield your skin from the sun. It’s often lightweight and designed to protect you whilst maximising your comfort.
- Swimwear—if you plan to get in the water or need to cool off, wear a comfortable swimsuit or board shorts to prevent being weighed down by your clothing.
Cold weather: layers for warmth and comfort
Choosing the right kayaking clothes becomes a bit more complex when paddling in cooler weather, as you need to layer appropriately to keep warm without restricting your movement.
- Base layers—start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics are great for this.
- Mid-layers—consider adding a fleece or insulated jacket to provide warmth.
- Top layer—your outer layer should be waterproof and windproof, like a drysuit. Keeping wind and water off your skin is important to prevent getting too cold.
- Neoprene—if you’ll be in very cold water, a neoprene wetsuit or drysuit may be needed to keep you warm in case you get wet.
Rainy or windy conditions: staying dry and protected from the elements
In rainy or windy conditions, clothing for kayaking should focus on keeping you dry and reducing the chance of getting a chill. For these days, having the right gear can make all the difference in comfort and safety.
- Waterproof jackets and pants—a good waterproof jacket and pants combo will protect you from rain and wind. Look for breathable fabrics that keep moisture out while letting sweat escape.
- Drysuits—a drysuit is a great option for extremely wet conditions or when paddling in cold water. These suits seal tightly at the wrists and ankles, stopping water from entering and keeping you dry no matter what.
Key items to wear for kayaking: the essentials
Now that we’ve covered what to wear kayaking in different weather conditions, let’s cover the basic items you’ll need for every kayaking trip. These essentials will keep you safe and comfortable, no matter the weather forecast, so you can focus on enjoying your time on the water.
1. PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
Your PFD (personal flotation device) is the most improtant item on every kayaking trip. No matter how skilled you are, you should never hit the water without it. Make sure your PFD fits well and is comfortable, allowing you to paddle freely while keeping you safe.
2. Base layer
A quality base layer is important for comfort during your sessions. As mentioned before, moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or synthetic fibres will keep you dry and warm. Even in hot weather, you’ll want a base layer that helps wick away sweat rather than a cotton t-shirt that holds onto moisture.
3. Top layer
A paddling jacket or waterproof outer layer is your best choice. When choosing a top layer, look for something that is waterproof, breathable, and flexible. This way, you stay dry without feeling trapped in your gear.
4. Footwear
Your choice of footwear will depend on where you’re kayaking. For river kayaking, water shoes or sandals with straps are perfect for stability and comfort. If you’re kayaking in colder water, you might prefer neoprene boots for extra insulation.
5. Hats and sunglasses
A hat with a brim will shield you from the sun, and a pair of UV-protection sunglasses will protect your eyes against glare and harmful rays. It’s a good idea to check your sunglasses have a secure strap so they don’t get lost if they fall into the water.
Special gear for kayaking: staying safe and comfortable
There are a few other pieces of gear that can make your kayaking experience safer and more enjoyable, including:
- Waterproof jackets and pants—a high-quality waterproof jacket and pants set is perfect for days when you want to stay dry and comfortable on the water. Make sure these garments are breathable so you don’t overheat
- Gloves—kayaking can be tough on your hands, especially if you’re paddling for long periods. Get a good pair of kayaking gloves to protect your hands and improve your grip
- Dry bags—it’s important to keep your valuables dry while kayaking. A dry bag will protect your phone, keys, and wallet when on the water
- Waterproof hats—a waterproof hat is a great option for protecting your head on especially sunny or rainy days. Look for one with a chin strap to prevent it from blowing away on windy days
What to avoid wearing while kayaking
While knowing what to wear kayaking is important, it’s just as crucial to understanding what not to wear. Wearing the wrong clothing can lead to discomfort or, even worse, dangerous situations.
Avoiding cotton clothing
Cotton is a no-go when it comes to kayaking. Cotton absorbs water, making it heavy and uncomfortable when it gets wet. Plus, it takes forever to dry, which can lead to you feeling cold and damp.
Instead, choose moisture-wicking fabrics like polyester or merino wool, which are designed to keep you dry and warm.
What materials are best for kayaking?
The best materials for kayaking are moisture-wicking, breathable, and quick-drying. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon, as well as natural fibres like merino wool, are ideal because they dry quickly and effectively regulate body temperature.
The importance of choosing quick-drying fabrics
When kayaking, your key focus should be choosing clothes that dry quickly. Being able to dry off fast is crucial for comfort and avoiding hypothermia, especially in cold weather or if you accidentally capsize.
Specialist Kayak Insurance from Craftinsure
Now you know what to wear kayaking to stay safe and dry, you may also want to consider specialist insurance for added peace of mind on the water.
At Craftinsure, our specialist kayak insurance provides up to £5m third-party cover, and protects your boat against loss or damage from fire or theft. Get an instant online quote today.
So what are you waiting for? Kit up and get kayaking.
