Just because it’s winter, it doesn’t mean you have to stop doing the watersports you love! Experiencing different climates and changing seasons offers a variety of picturesque landscapes and water conditions – which is what makes kayaking so addictive and exciting. 

Any experienced paddler knows that to enhance ability, duration and experience, you need to dress for the occasion. You lose body heat much faster in water than in open air, and with close proximity to icy waves and wide-open water, it’s crucial that you’re wearing the right kayaking clothing to protect yourself.

Here at NorthShore Watersports, we’ve created a guide to your essential watersports winter wear to keep you both safe and comfortable when the temperatures drop. From your helmet to your footwear, we cover all the kayaking clothing you need to make sure you stay as dry and safe as possible this winter. Remember, there is no bad weather, only the wrong gear!

Winter Kayaking Clothing Checklist

Headwear & Helmets

Starting at the top, you probably agree that your head is a prized possession that needs absolute protection at all times! Paddling can be a rough sport, as any whitewater rafter knows, so we’re sure you already wear a strong helmet regardless of the season. A well-fitting helmet should fit snugly on your head while covering your temples and the nape of your neck. 

But there’s more to watersports headwear than a sturdy helmet. For added warmth and comfort, we suggest you invest in headwear such as a skull cap too. May headwear products are made with neoprene. If you haven’t heard of it, neoprene is a hugely popular material in watersports clothing because of its amazing insulating, waterproofing and flexibility features.

A Drysuit

When it comes to winter kayaking clothing, drysuits are a must. Drysuits are all-in-one waterproof clothing with latex at the ankles, wrists and neck. They’re great for colder weather, as these watertight seals significantly reduce the chance that water will reach your skin, while the insulating layers under the suit work to decrease heat loss. Drysuits are designed for breathability and comfort in a wide range of temperatures, and they are excellent at keeping you dry — well worth an investment if you’re serious about kayaking in winter. 

Check out our full range of drysuits to find high-quality options from many leading watersports brands. They’ll mean you can paddle for so much longer in far colder conditions than you ever thought possible!

Thermal Layers

Thermals are also great for layering when out on the water or for activities back on dry land. Thermal tops and thermal trousers help to keep the body dry, warm and comfortable. Trust us, you’ll be grateful for them! 

When planning what to wear kayaking in winter, layers are crucial to get right. Here’s how you should wear them from the base to the top:

• Inner layer – the aim of this layer is to remove moisture from your skin to reduce cold and dampness. Your bottom layer should be quite thin and made from synthetic material (like polypropylene) with moisture-wicking features to keep you comfy and dry. 

• Middle layer – this is your main insulating layer. Opt for fleece or wool, as these types of fabrics are warming and non-absorbent. Be sure to avoid cotton clothes. Cotton sticks to the skin and dries slowly, so if you do get wet, you’ll be cold even with a slight breeze!
  

• Outer layer – this will protect you from the elements. If you don’t have a drysuit yet, opt for cags, waterproof jackets and trousers to help fend off spray, surf, sun, rain, and wind. The outer layer is best if it’s relatively easy to take off and put back on (on the off chance you get too warm!)

Gloves & Mitts

Even in summer, many of us choose to wear watersports gloves or mitts when we’re out on the water. But when it comes to winter, the freezing temperatures make them an absolute necessity. Not only will freezing hands feel painful, but keeping your hands warm and dry is crucial to maintaining maximum grip and manoeuvrability so that you stay in complete control of your boat. 

For maximum protection and comfort, look for features such as velcro-adjustable straps, reinforced palms and fingers, and webbing pull-tabs to pull tightly and securely over your hands.

Watersports Footwear

When it comes to winter kayaking clothing, investing in the right watersports footwear is crucial. Wet feet means cold feet, so keeping them protected from the water is a high priority for a paddler!

The best watersports footwear for winter is made of neoprene. Neoprene is an excellent material for keeping your extremities warm and will help protect against a combination of water and the bitter wind. There’s a lot of variety when it comes to watersports footwear and everyone has their own preference – you can opt for neoprene boots alone, or pair suitable watersports boots with a pair of neoprene socks.

Buoyancy Aid

Last – but definitely not least – is a buoyancy aid. A buoyancy aid can save your life at any time of year, but in winter, it’s absolutely vital to wear one. In the event of capsizing in icy cold water, a buoyancy aid will keep your head above the surface and prevent further heat loss from your head, helping prevent hypothermia. In addition to their safety benefit, they add an extra layer of insulation to keep you warm.

The cold weather can make enjoying your favourite watersports that little bit more difficult, but with the correct winter clothing for the sport, it shouldn’t have to stop you getting out on the water. Now you know what to wear kayaking in winter, you can enjoy the sport safely all through autumn and winter!

Read our ultimate guide to canoeing and kayaking in winter for more essential tips before you head out on the water in cold weather.