What To Wear During Kayaking?

When kayaking, it is essential to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and avoid taking it off while on the water. If you need to adjust your top layers, find a place to take them out instead. This comprehensive guide covers essential clothing for warm weather, gear for cold water, layering methods, and more.

When kayaking in cold or cool weather, it is recommended to wear warm snowboarding socks beneath waterproof boots. Sunscreen should be used on exposed areas and clothing should be designed for the water temperature. Choose comfortable, moisture-wicking materials like Dry-fit or polyester shirt for protection and quick drying. Shorts or pants should be appropriate for the water temperature and outside weather.

For clothing that touches your skin, go with wicking, quick-drying nylon or polyester (or another synthetic fabric). Wool dries less quickly, but wool dries less quickly. For kayaking, quick-drying fabrics such as polyester and nylon and waterproof clothing are the best options to ensure you don’t get wet and cold.

One pair of water shoes should have grip and be snugly fastened. Rubber boots are optional, and one pair of land shoes should fit snugly and cover your temple area and neck. Base layers should consist of quick-dry tops, swimwear, or lycra to wick away sweat while paddling. Mid-layers can be anything that helps you stay dry and comfortable during your kayaking adventure.