You have got yourself a kayak and are all set to go to your very first paddling trip.
Before you go for kayaking, there’s usually one question in mind, what to wear while kayaking?
What you should wear during kayaking or canoeing depends on several different things. That is what we will talk about on our guide today. Of course, if you’re looking for an outdoor survival clothing guide, you can check out our post too. It’s a more general guide on what are the 3 layers you need to wear to survive in the outdoors.
What Should You Wear Kayaking In Summer?
Normally in summer, you do not have to deal with cold water, although you should protect yourself from sun rays. The effects of sunlight might not be as surprising and sudden as with cold water, but still, you do not wish to get a UV overdose or a heat stroke.
Long Clothes
In summer you should wear something very light and breathable. We will suggest that long sleeved breathable shirts are the best option that you can wear for kayaking or canoeing trips. Throughout the kayaking journey, a long sleeved shirt will secure your arms from the sun rays and UV overdose. I would highly recommend the Columbia Men’s PFG Blood & Guts III Long Sleeve Woven Shirt because it’s bright in color and this ultralight shirt is able to repel stains which is super helpful if you wear it for outdoor activities.
Similarly, wear long, breathable, and light pants for kayaking trips.
Cap
If you’re bald, you should protect yourself from sun rays. There are high chances that you can get heatstroke if your head is not protected, so you should have a wide-brimmed hat or a cap on your head to protect yourself. In fact, I would highly recommend Outdoor Research Sombriolet Sun Hat which has Solar Shield Construction, flexible brim edge for wind resistance and TransAction headband for comfort. If you are looking for something more stylish, the e4Hats.com Sports Kayak Cap would be more suitable.
Sunglasses
Having sunglasses will not only help protect your eyes from sunlight, but it also helps to get a clear view under sunlight. The water could throw some glare into your eyes if there’s no direct sunlight. We will suggest you go for polarized sunglasses. If you want a clear view while canoeing or kayaking.
Sunscreen
You may not need to apply a sunscreen if you cover the body under a long sleeved shirt, long pants, and head with a proper hat. If still any portion of your body will probably stay open under the sunlight, then you need to apply sunscreen.
We will suggest you to apply sunscreen even if your body parts are covered. Still, there are chances that you can get burns from the sun light reflected from the surface of the water. The Banana Boat Ultra Sport Sunscreen Lotion is one which I have used and I would highly recommend because it’s able to stay on you despite having sweat or wind on your skin.
Do not forget the sunscreen if the day appears to be cloudy. At least carry it with you on your bag if you won’t be using it. Cause you don’t know when will the sun decides to show up.
Things You Should Wear While Kayaking
Waterproof footwear is really important in both hot and cold conditions. Shoes that are made up of neoprene material would be an excellent choice because they’re protective and light-weighted.
Any water shoes that are lightweight and protect you could be a great choice.
Avoid the footwear that will not support your feet like sandals and flip flops or anything that does not have a back strap. Because while kayaking or canoeing, you could lose them.
If you are looking for canoeing or kayaking shoes, then check out our roundup of the best shoes for canoeing or kayaking.
Quick-Drying Clothes
Wearing quick-drying clothes is a fantastic idea. The clothes which are touching your skin are probably made up of quick-drying and wicking materials. Any artificial fiber would be suitable for it. For myself, I find the WindRider Waterproof Paddling Sailing Spray Top to be suitable. It is 100% waterproof, contains zipper pockets for you to store your items and it’s really easy to put on too.
Avoid cotton clothing because it remains moist and absorbs water. Wool is a much better option; it is not going to dry you immediately as artificial fiber, but it will protect you from the cold when wet.
Abrasion-Resistant Clothes
You can also consider clothes that are made up of durable material and can resist wear and tear well. If you ask me, the WindRider Racing Spray Top is one of the top picks for abrasion-resistant clothing. The fabric and mesh liner will be able to keep you dry and safe when you are out kayaking.
Additional Suggestions On Clothes
Take Spare Garments With You
If you are going for the kayaking trip, make sure that you have an extra set of clothes. Put the extra clothes in a bag that is dry so that they do not become wet in case of an accident.
Wear Your PFD
Never take off your flotation equipment while canoeing or kayaking.
You don’t know when things will go wrong. It is precisely the same as with clothes: it is going to be too late after you get into an accident. Believe me, it’s definitely a worthwhile investment. If you are interested, you can check out the Onyx MoveVent Dynamic Paddle Sports Life Jacket which has bubble form on the back to provide added comfort when you are putting it on.
Why Should You Need a Spray Skirt?
First of all, you should know why you need a spray skirt.
The brief answer is you need a spray skirt. But you do not have to use it all of the time.
The main objective of spray skirts is to keep water out of the kayak, also, to keep you warm in chilly weather. When it is cold outside, you really do need to put on a spray skirt because it is going to give some warmth to you and will stop the cold water from getting in your kayak.
Spray skirts are great pieces of gear that every owner of the kayak should have. If you feel that it’s a necessary material, you can check out the SEALS Coastal Tour Sprayskirt which provides excellent spray protection for moderate paddling conditions.
