Getting out on the water on a kayak is a brilliant way to spend time with friends and family, but what should you wear kayaking?
It's important to dress appropriately to get the most out of your time on the water, as wearing the wrong clothes may lead to you getting cold, while too many clothes may cause you to overheat.
Take a look at what to wear kayaking in this guide from British Canoeing.
What to wear kayaking
A personal floatation device (PFD), also known as a buoyancy aid is essential whether you are kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding or doing any other type of water sport. A range of PFD styles and features are available, from either front entry or side entry.
What to wear kayaking in spring and summer
The upper body is the area that will probably get splashed the most so think about what you are going to wear on your top half to keep your base layers dry. If you are kayaking in the sun then protect your skin. Many paddling kit manufacturers produce UV protective tops that are ideal for your paddling.
Your head is exposed to the elements when paddling, so protect it. Wear a sun hat or cap for summer – and sunglasses if you need them.
From neoprene trousers to paddling board shorts, there is lots to choose from for your legs. Neoprene is designed to keep you warm while wet, but if you choose to wear thermal layers then they need to stay dry to work so wear something waterproof over the top.
Old trainers aren’t designed to quickly drain water or stay warm when wet, so we’d recommend water shoes. These are ideal for paddling and offer some protection for your feet on riverbanks and paths. Like every other bit of kit, you have options to choose from, including proper trainer-style shoes and basic neoprene boots.
What to wear kayaking in autumn and winter
Kayaking is a great activity for autumn and winter but you should dress accordingly. Keep in mind low sun, rapid change in temperature, loss of daylight and changeable weather conditions.
Getting the layers close to your skin is the most important thing to consider in cooler weather. Specially designed paddling base layers will help to wick away the moisture from your skin and keep you warm.
The thickness of the base layer is important; too thin and you will be chilly on the water, too thick and you will be sweating and have an unpleasant time.
The type of base layers you should wear depends on your outer layers and the paddle you are going on.
This guide is also relevant for those wanting to canoe or go paddleboarding.
- Sea Kayaking the south coast
- Unmissable adventures on water: wild swimming, paddleboarding and more
- Wild swimming in Britain: water safety and how to get started
British Canoeing is the national governing body for paddlesports in the UK and is the umbrella organisation for the home nation associations in Scotland (Scottish Canoe Association), Wales (Canoe Wales) and Northern Ireland (Canoe Association Northern Ireland). They are the membership body for England and are responsible for developing the sport within England.
British Canoeing provides support and opportunities for everyone to enjoy and realise their potential within all aspects of canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddleboarding regardless of their age, background or ability.
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