What to Wear Kayaking: 8 Outfit Hacks for Hot & Cold Days

Picking the right outfit for kayaking can feel tricky, especially with changing weather. Each year, thousands of kayakers face cold shock and discomfort from wearing the wrong clothes on the water.

I’ll share eight proven outfit hacks that work for both hot and cold days on your kayak. These tips will keep you safe, dry, and ready for any paddling adventure.

Key Takeaways

Always dress for water temperature, not air temp – you lose heat 25 times faster in water than air. The U.S. Coast Guard requires wetsuits/drysuits when water is below 70°F.

Skip cotton clothing and pick quick-dry synthetics like nylon or polyester. Cotton soaks up water and creates dangerous cold conditions that can lead to hypothermia.

Layer properly with base layers (thermal wear/wetsuit), insulating middle layers, and waterproof outer shells. This system works best for cold-water paddling below 60°F.

Wear proper footwear like water shoes or strapped sandals – never flip-flops. Brands like Chaco, Teva, and Astral offer good grip and protection for wet conditions.

Life jackets are required safety gear. Pick ones that fit snug but allow free arm movement. Add spray skirts and ear protection when paddling in cold or rough water.

General Guidelines for Kayaking Attire

A woman in her 30s kayaking on a calm river in a nylon outfit.

Smart kayakers dress for the water temp, not the air temp. Your clothes must allow free movement while keeping you dry with quick-drying fabrics like nylon or spandex.

Dress for water temperature, not air temperature

A kayak with gear floats in calm, foggy, cold water.

Water temperature matters more than air temperature for kayaking safety. The U.S. Coast Guard says you need wetsuits or dry suits in water below 70°F. Your body loses heat 25 times faster in cold water than in air.

Many paddlers make the mistake of dressing for sunny skies while ignoring dangerous water conditions. A quick dip in cold water can lead to serious problems like lung shock or hypothermia.

Smart kayakers at Razor Kayaks Online Shop know the right gear saves lives. Cold water needs proper protection through layering with quick-dry materials.

Your base layer should include thermal wear or a wetsuit that keeps you warm even if you get wet. The outer layer must block wind and water while letting your body move freely. This setup helps prevent hypothermia and keeps you safe on the water.

Avoid cotton and non-quick-drying materials

A person kayaking in a scenic river surrounded by lush trees.

Your clothing choice makes a huge difference in kayaking comfort and safety. Cotton fabrics spell trouble on the water because they soak up moisture like a sponge. A cotton t-shirt turns into a heavy, cold layer that sticks to your skin and takes forever to dry.

This creates a perfect recipe for chills and major discomfort during your paddling adventure.

Smart paddlers pick synthetic materials like nylon or polyester for their kayaking trips. These fabrics dry fast and keep you comfy on the water. Rash guards and board shorts made from quick-dry materials help prevent chafing while you paddle.

They also maintain their shape and won’t weigh you down, even after hours of splashing through waves or dealing with spray from your paddle strokes.

Prioritize freedom of movement

A person kayaking on a calm river in a fitted rashguard.

Moving beyond fabric choices, proper fit affects kayaking comfort. Loose clothes catch on gear and create drag in the water. Tight clothes restrict paddle strokes and limit body rotation.

The best kayaking outfit moves with you, not against you.

Fitted activewear allows you to twist, reach, and paddle without restraint. A streamlined rashguard or UPF-rated shirt paired with quick-dry shorts gives full range of motion. The right fit increases paddling power and helps prevent muscle strain.

Life jackets must stay snug but allow arm movement for proper stroke technique. Many paddlers choose stretchy materials like lycra that flex during active movements.

What to Wear for Kayaking in Warm Weather

A couple kayaking on a calm river in casual outdoor attire.

Hot days on the water need smart clothing choices that keep you cool and protected. A good mix of quick-dry gear and sun protection will make your paddle time more fun and safe.

Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing

Lightweight clothes make a huge difference on hot days in your kayak. Quick-dry nylon and synthetic polyester keep you cool by pulling sweat away from your skin. A UPF-rated rash guard shields your arms and chest from harsh sun rays.

These fabrics dry fast, so you stay comfy during long paddling sessions.

Your base layer needs to work hard while you paddle. Merino wool or capilene shirts give you the best moisture control without feeling heavy or sticky. Many guys pair these tops with board shorts or quick-dry shorts for maximum movement.

The right fabric combo helps you focus on paddling instead of feeling weighed down by wet clothes.

Sun protection (hats, sunglasses, UV-protective shirts)

A kayak beach setup with hat, sunglasses, rashguard, and PFD.

The sun reflects off water and hits you from all angles during kayaking. A wide-brimmed hat shields your face and neck from harsh rays. Secure your shades with floatable retainers to prevent losing them in the water.

UV-protective rashguards made from polyester or nylon with Lycra spandex offer quick-drying protection for your upper body. These materials work better than regular shirts for your next thrilling adventures.

Protection from the sun isn’t optional – it’s your first line of defense on the water.

Smart sun protection goes beyond basic gear. UPF-rated fabrics block harmful rays better than standard clothing. Your personal flotation device adds an extra layer of coverage. The right mix of protective gear lets you focus on paddling instead of worrying about sunburn.

Next up, we’ll explore what to wear in cold weather conditions to stay warm and dry.

What to Wear for Kayaking in Cold Weather

A laid out outfit for a kayaking adventure on a rocky shoreline.

Cold weather kayaking demands smart layering to keep you warm and dry on the water. Your base layers should include thermal wear and wool socks, while a waterproof jacket and pants will shield you from icy splashes and wind.

Insulating base layers

Base layers create your first defense against cold water during kayaking trips. Synthetic or wool materials like NRS Expedition Weight base layers pull sweat away from your skin. These materials keep you warm even if they get wet.

Your base layer should fit snug against your body without limiting movement.

A proper base layer system starts with rashguards or thermal underwear next to your skin. Fleece long-sleeved shirts and pants add extra warmth as a middle layer. The right combo of these layers helps prevent hypothermia while paddling in chilly conditions.

Your base layers must stay dry and warm to work well under your spray skirt or drysuit.

Waterproof outer layers

A solid waterproof jacket keeps you dry during rough paddling conditions. Your outer shell must block wind and rain while letting sweat escape. Gore-Tex and similar materials work great for this job.

The jacket should fit loose enough to layer clothes underneath, but tight enough to prevent water from getting in.

Your outer layer needs strong zippers and sealed seams to stop water from sneaking through. Many paddlers prefer jackets with adjustable wrist cuffs and a high neck to block spray.

The best outer shells come with a hood that fits over your helmet or hat. These features protect you from cold water and harsh weather on the water.

Hats and gloves for warmth

Proper head protection is crucial for kayaking in cold conditions. Waterproof hats shield your head from both water and wind, while keeping vital body heat from escaping. Your hands need equal care – neoprene paddling gloves offer warmth and grip control.

These gloves help you maintain a firm hold on your paddle even in harsh weather.

Your extremities lose heat first – protect them or pay the price on the water.

Cold water poses real risks to kayakers, making proper insulation vital. Pogies work effectively as an alternative to full gloves – they attach to your paddle and create a warm pocket for your hands.

Many kayakers prefer pogies because they allow direct contact with the paddle while keeping fingers toasty. The right mix of head and hand gear helps prevent dangerous heat loss during long paddling sessions.

The next key consideration is essential footwear choices for your kayaking adventure.

Wetsuits vs. Drysuits

Outdoor store displays wetsuits and drysuits for kayaking.

Wetsuits and drysuits serve different purposes for kayaking – pick a wetsuit for mild conditions or a drysuit for extreme cold water, and if you want to learn more about kayaking as one of many great leisure activities for men, keep reading to discover the perfect gear for your next water adventure.

When to wear a wetsuit

A wetsuit keeps you warm in cold water during kayaking trips. You must put on a wetsuit if the water temperature drops below 70°F. The thickness of your wetsuit matters – thicker suits offer more warmth in colder conditions.

Most kayakers choose suits ranging from 1mm to 7mm based on water temps.

Your body loses heat 25 times faster in water than in air. A proper wetsuit acts as a thermal barrier by trapping a thin layer of water between your skin and the suit. This trapped water heats up from your body temperature and creates insulation.

For waters below 45°F, layer your wetsuit with swimwear as a base layer to maximize warmth and prevent hypothermia.

When to choose a drysuit

Drysuits provide vital protection for kayaking in water below 60°F. These waterproof suits keep you completely dry and warm during cold-water paddling sessions. Solo paddlers must wear drysuits in cold conditions to prevent hypothermia.

The suit creates a protective barrier between you and the frigid water, so you can focus on your paddling technique instead of shivering.

Safety matters more than comfort in cold waters – your drysuit is your lifeline.

Your drysuit serves as essential gear for recreational boating in challenging conditions. The waterproof shell blocks out moisture while allowing you to layer warm clothing underneath.

Many paddlers pair their drysuits with waterproof socks and neoprene booties for total protection. The right footwear choices help keep you comfortable on your kayaking activities.

Footwear for Kayaking

A middle-aged person putting on water shoes for kayaking near rocky river shores.

Your feet need proper protection during kayaking trips – grab water shoes or secure sandals that grip well and dry fast, and read on to discover the perfect footwear picks for your next paddling adventure.

Water shoes

Water shoes protect your feet from sharp rocks and slippery surfaces during kayaking trips. These shoes offer strong grip on wet surfaces and drain water fast through special holes in the soles.

Top picks like the Chaco ZX2 Classic and Astral Brewess 2.0 combine comfort with safety features for long days on the water.

Good water shoes stop blisters and cuts while moving between your kayak and the shore. The Keen Evofit One Water Sandal stands out with its quick-drying fabric and sturdy toe protection.

Most water shoes now include mesh panels that let water flow out easily, keeping feet dry and ready for action. These shoes work great for both river banks and sandy beaches.

Sandals with straps

Secure sandals make a huge difference on your kayaking trips. Brands like Teva and Chacos offer perfect options with strong straps that grip your feet. These sandals stay put during paddling and protect your feet from rocks.

Your toes stay safe, and you’ll keep steady balance while moving in and out of your kayak.

Good kayaking sandals need ankle straps and toe protection. Crocs with heel straps work great too – they dry fast and won’t slip off. The rubber soles give you solid grip on wet surfaces.

I’ve tested dozens of kayaking footwear options, and strapped sandals beat flip-flops every time. They keep your feet secure during those tricky kayak launches and landings.

Avoid flip-flops or heavy boots

Flip-flops spell trouble on kayaking trips. These loose sandals slip off too fast in water, leaving your feet at risk. Your feet need solid protection during paddling sessions. Water sandals with secure straps give you better grip and safety on slick surfaces.

Heavy boots create problems too. They soak up water like a sponge and drag you down. Neoprene boots offer the perfect mix of warmth and water-resistance for cold days on the water.

Your footwear choice matters for both comfort and safety during kayaking adventures. Proper paddling shoes help prevent accidents and keep your feet happy on the water.

Accessories for Comfort and Safety

A spray skirt and personal flotation device on a dock by a calm lake.

Your safety gear makes a huge difference in your kayaking experience. A good spray skirt and personal flotation device will protect you from cold water and keep you safe during rough conditions.

Spray skirts

Spray skirts act as a vital shield between you and unwanted water splashes during kayaking trips. These waterproof covers wrap around your waist and attach to the kayak’s cockpit rim through three key parts – the tunnel, deck, and rand.

The neoprene material creates a tight seal to keep water out while letting you move freely.

A proper-fitting spray skirt stops cold water from getting into your kayak and helps maintain your body heat. The tunnel part hugs your body, the deck covers the cockpit opening, and the rand grips the rim of your kayak.

This setup proves crucial for whitewater kayaking and paddling in rough conditions where splashes and waves could fill your boat with water.

Life jackets (PFDs)

Life jackets stand as your most vital safety gear for kayaking – no exceptions. A proper PFD must fit snug against your body without riding up while you paddle. I learned this lesson during my first kayak trip when my loose-fitting jacket kept floating up to my ears.

Your PFD needs to stay on your body at all times while you’re on the water. This rule applies even if you feel like a pro paddler or think the water looks calm.

The right life jacket lets you move your arms freely for paddling motions. Pick one with adjustable straps to customize the fit to your body shape. Most kayaking PFDs come with pockets – perfect for storing small items like energy bars or a whistle.

Next up, let’s look at what clothes to avoid while kayaking to keep you safe and comfortable on the water.

Ear protection for cold water

Cold water poses serious risks to your ears during kayaking. Proper ear protection stops heat loss and keeps you safe on the water. The NRS Mystery Helmet Liner offers full coverage to shield your ears from harsh conditions.

Earplugs serve as a vital barrier against cold water exposure.

Your ears need special care to prevent hypothermia while paddling in cold temperatures. Smart kayakers use both earplugs and helmet liners for maximum protection. These items work together to maintain body heat and boost your comfort level.

The right ear gear makes a big difference in your overall paddling experience.

Clothing to Avoid While Kayaking

A woman in her 30s struggles to paddle a kayak in heavy rain.

Your choice of kayaking clothes can make or break your paddling experience. Wearing the wrong items puts you at risk of hypothermia, restricted movement, and even drowning – so skip these clothing mistakes and paddle with confidence.

Cotton clothing

Cotton stands as your worst enemy during kayaking trips. This common fabric soaks up water like a sponge and stays wet for hours. I learned this the hard way during a summer paddling trip – my cotton t-shirt felt like a cold, heavy blanket that wouldn’t dry.

Wet cotton pulls heat from your body fast, raising your risk of hypothermia even on warm days.

Smart paddlers skip cotton and pick synthetic materials built for water sports. Materials like nylon and polyester dry super fast and keep you warm even when wet. These fabrics work great as base layers under your lifejacket or wetsuit.

They also protect against sunburn and help prevent chafing during long paddling sessions.

Restrictive or bulky garments

Bulky clothes will slow you down on the water and mess up your paddling form. Loose pants or baggy shirts catch water and create drag, making each stroke harder. I learned this the hard way during my first kayaking trip – my oversized rainwear turned into a water-logged nightmare.

Your kayaking gear needs to fit close to your body for smooth movement.

Tight jeans or stiff workout clothes block proper leg and hip motion in your kayak. These garments limit your ability to perform basic paddling moves and safety techniques like the eskimo roll.

Pick fitted, but stretchy options like rash vests or boardshorts that move with you. Your paddling clothing should feel like a second skin – not too loose or restrictive.

People Also Ask

What should I wear kayaking on a hot summer day?

For warm days, wear light clothes like a tank top and shorts wetsuit. Don’t forget sunscreen! Skip the thongs or flip flops – they won’t stay on in water. Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) for safety.

How do I dress for cold water kayaking?

In cold water, wear a long-sleeve wetsuit or dry-suit to prevent hypothermia. Layer your clothes and wear wellies to keep your feet warm. Water temperatures matter more than air temperature when choosing what to wear.

Can I wear regular clothes like yoga pants when kayaking?

While yoga pants might feel comfy, they’re not the best choice. Swimsuits work better for a sit-on-top kayak. Whatever you wear, lifejackets are a must – they keep you safe if you fall in.

What’s the most important piece of kayaking gear to wear?

The personal flotation device (PFD) is your most important item. Without it, you risk becoming hypothermic if you fall in cold water. Never kayak without one, no matter the weather.

How should I layer clothes for kayaking?

Start with swimsuits as your base. Add a wetsuit if it’s cold. Top it with a dry-suit in very cold conditions. This layering for kayaking helps keep you warm and safe on the water.

References

https://www.baysports.com.au/blogs/blog/how-to-dress-for-kayaking

https://www.coldwatersafety.org/dress-for-the-water-temperature

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/kayaking-what-to-wear.html

https://www.logkayakrack.com/what-should-i-wear-kayaking-in-the-summer/?srsltid=AfmBOopWnwbvbdODhBMjvfdBmt6WH84vgQbhjDQAUsAgh2HeslOOvrXn

https://in4adventure.com/cold-water-kayaking-gear-warm-water-kayaking-gear/

https://jacksonadventures.com/2021/12/how-to-keep-warm-winter-playboating/

https://madelinemarquardt.com/winter-kayaking-best-gear-how-to-layer/

https://paddling.com/learn/dressing-for-cold-weather-paddling

https://paddleboston.com/resources-section/how-to-guides/dress-cold-water-paddling/

https://forums.paddling.com/t/wetsuit-or-drysuit-or-just-tough-it-out/57018 (2012-04-12)

https://www.stuckonthego.com/best-kayaking-shoes/

https://www.sbadventureco.com/blog/how-to-dress-for-an-ocean-kayaking-tour/ (2011-02-24)

https://outdoors.com/what-to-wear-kayaking/

https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/spray-skirt.html

https://www.outdoorplay.com/blogs/news/guide-to-kayak-spray-skirts?srsltid=AfmBOoqUdI7Ny-Pk5rIEbCqjWFDuEGbanJizD91HDXhNJ7CW4LgtokOr (2023-09-14)

https://www.nrs.com/learn/stay-warm-when-kayaking?srsltid=AfmBOooHtg_4SiyPGNVnuPQFSpvTvMAIgTRWfx6etjBtGTeRuzWFWqYf

https://forums.paddling.com/t/clothing-to-wear-while-kayaking/51055 (2010-06-22)

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Rasha

Rasha writes about family, parenting, and home décor for Unfinished Man. Drawing from her experiences raising her own kids, she provides tips on creating warm, welcoming spaces. Rasha also shares home staging expertise to help transform houses into magazine-worthy dream homes.

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