What To Wear To Kayak [Elaborated]

What to Wear Kayaking A Guide for Beginners

Kayaking is a great way to get out on the water and enjoy the scenery. But before you can launch your kayak, you need to make sure you’re wearing the right clothes.

The right clothing can help you stay comfortable and safe while you’re kayaking. It can also protect you from the elements, such as the sun, wind, and rain.

In this guide, we’ll discuss what to wear kayaking for beginners. We’ll cover everything from base layers to outerwear, and we’ll give you tips on how to stay comfortable and safe on your next kayaking adventure.

So, What To Wear To Kayak?

What to Wear to Kayak

When kayaking, you need to wear clothing that is comfortable, waterproof, and provides some protection from the elements.

Clothing:

Wear layers of synthetic or wool clothing that will keep you warm even if it gets wet. Avoid cotton, which will absorb water and become heavy.

Footwear:

Wear water shoes or sandals that will protect your feet from rocks and debris.

Headwear:

Wear a hat or helmet to protect your head from the sun, wind, and rain.

Eyewear:

Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and wind.

Other accessories:

Bring a waterproof jacket, pants, and gloves in case the weather turns cold or rainy. You may also want to bring a waterproof bag to store your belongings.

For more information on what to wear to kayak, check out the following resources:

[Paddle Canada: What to Wear Kayaking](https://www.paddlecanada.com/what-to-wear-kayaking/)
[American Canoe Association: What to Wear Kayaking](https://www.aca.org/kayaking/what-to-wear-kayaking)
[National Park Service: What to Wear Kayaking](https://www.nps.gov/articles/what-to-wear-kayaking.htm)

What to Wear to Kayak

The Basics

When it comes to choosing what to wear to kayak, the most important thing is to stay warm and dry. The water temperature will be much colder than the air temperature, so you’ll need to layer your clothing to create a barrier between your skin and the water. You should also wear a waterproof outer layer to protect you from wind and rain.

Layers

The best way to stay warm while kayaking is to wear layers. Start with a base layer made of a moisture-wicking fabric, such as polypropylene or merino wool. This will help to keep you dry and comfortable by wicking away sweat from your skin.

Over the base layer, you should wear a fleece or synthetic insulated layer. This will provide extra warmth and insulation.

For the outer layer, you should wear a waterproof jacket and pants. The jacket should have a hood to protect your head and neck from the rain and wind. The pants should be long enough to cover your legs and feet.

Footwear

You’ll also need to choose the right footwear for kayaking. The best option is a pair of water shoes or sandals that will keep your feet dry and protected. You can also wear a pair of neoprene booties if you’re going to be kayaking in cold water.

Accessories

In addition to your clothing, you’ll also need to pack a few accessories for your kayaking trip. These include:

A waterproof hat or cap
A pair of sunglasses
A water bottle
A snack
A first aid kit
A whistle
A map of the area
A flashlight

Staying Safe

Kayaking is a fun and exciting activity, but it’s important to stay safe while you’re out on the water. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe:

Wear a life jacket at all times.
Be aware of the weather conditions and forecast.
Avoid paddling in rough water.
Be careful of submerged objects.
Watch out for other boats and watercraft.
Be aware of wildlife.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience.

Also Read This: What To Wear While Kayaking

FAQs: What To Wear To Kayak

What should I wear when kayaking?

The best clothing for kayaking depends on the weather conditions, but a good rule of thumb is to dress in layers that you can easily remove or add as needed. You’ll want to wear something that is waterproof, breathable, and quick-drying. Some good options include:

A waterproof jacket or raincoat
A pair of water-resistant pants or shorts
A long-sleeved shirt or rash guard
A pair of water shoes or sandals
A hat or visor
A pair of sunglasses
A neoprene life jacket

What should I avoid wearing when kayaking?

You should avoid wearing anything that is made of cotton, as it will get wet and heavy and can make you cold. You should also avoid wearing anything that is too tight, as it can restrict your movement. Some items to avoid include:

Cotton clothing
Tight-fitting clothing
Shoes with laces

How do I stay warm when kayaking?

The best way to stay warm when kayaking is to dress in layers. You can start with a base layer of thermal underwear, then add a fleece or wool sweater, and finally a waterproof jacket. You can also wear a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect your head and extremities from the cold.

It is important to note that you will generate more heat when you are paddling, so you may need to remove layers as you warm up. It is also important to stay hydrated, as dehydration can lead to hypothermia.

How do I stay cool when kayaking?

The best way to stay cool when kayaking is to wear loose-fitting clothing made from lightweight, breathable fabrics. You can also wear a hat or visor to protect your head from the sun. It is important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and to take breaks in the shade whenever possible.

If you start to feel overheated, you can remove layers of clothing or take a dip in the water. However, it is important to avoid getting your head wet, as this can lead to hypothermia.

What are the best kayaking shoes?

The best kayaking shoes are those that are comfortable, provide good traction, and are waterproof. Some good options include:

Water shoes
Neoprene shoes
Hiking shoes with waterproof socks