What to wear kayaking in the summer

There’s no better way to spend a summer day than sweep stroking round calm waters. But, when the hot weather finally comes, it can be hard to know what to wear for your time on the water. 

Here at NorthShore Watersports, we’ve put together our top tips on summer kayaking clothing, so you can worry less about your clothing choices, and focus more on enjoying your sport.

How to choose the right clothing for kayaking

The clothes you pick for kayaking can make or break your day, so here’s how to ensure you’re wearing the appropriate clothes for the occasion.

Check the forecast

Checking the weather forecast should always be your first step to see if you’re preparing for potential rainfall, winds and cold chills.

Consider the water temperature

When kayaking, the most important thing to keep in mind is the water temperature. Whilst it may be 28 degrees in temperature, the water may only be 11 degrees, and you must dress accordingly to be well prepared in case your kayak takes an unplanned 180. 

Always layer up

Even in the summer, layering up for kayaking is vital. Layers are easy to remove if temperatures increase, but your trip may have to be cut short if you wear too little and become cold. Always pack extra layers for every kayaking trip.

Choose comfort

Spending a day uncomfortable is no fun for anyone. Making sure you choose the comfiest of clothes for your day on the water is key.

The benefits of wearing the right clothes while kayaking

So, why is choosing the right clothing so important when it comes to kayaking?

Protection from the elements

With British weather, it can seem like no two consecutive hours are the same. Being prepared for rain, wind, clouds and sun all year round can ensure you’re well protected for whatever the weather throws at you.

Watersport safety

Not wearing enough layers can be hazardous when kayaking. Getting wet whilst wearing the wrong clothing can seriously affect your body, turning your favourite sport dangerous.

A fun day kayaking

Overall, the most important benefit to choosing the right kayak clothing this summer is to ensure you have fun! No one wants to spend their day worrying about what they’re wearing, so being prepared is key to enjoying the beautiful sport. 

Different types of clothing you can wear while kayaking

Wetsuits

Wetsuits are ideal for kayaking during the warmer months; made from insulated rubber, they protect you from the water’s temperature and make the perfect base layer.

Our wetsuits at NorthShore Watersports include something for everyone, so you can get out on the water and stay dry if you end up in it. 

Rash vests

Usually worn underneath the wet suit, more accustomed kayakers give the wetsuit a miss during the warmer months and choose to wear their rash vest as their main layer. 

The main job of a rash vest is to avoid any friction between a wetsuit and your skin so that you can kayak comfortably all day long. 

Paddle bottoms

Paddle bottoms come in short or long options that offer different performance levels depending on the sport. Designed for comfort, these pair well with rash vests for a complete base layer, regardless of the season.

Thermals

Important for the colder months, thermals are a must-have in a kayaker’s wardrobe. Both thermal tops and thermal bottoms are good to have to hand when the British summertime isn’t showing up. 

Drysuits

Drysuits are the perfect investment for committed kayakers. Designed to provide optimum comfort and protect you from the elements, these suits offer an all-in-one solution to dressing for kayaking.

What to do if you get wet while kayaking

Kayaking is a watersport, which unfortunately means there’s a good chance you will get wet. Your clothing will help make those moments much more comfortable and stop them from bringing your adventure to a halt. Layering your clothing can help ensure wet clothes can be removed with ease and provide you with dryer layers.

The biggest tip to make sure getting wet in your kayak can’t spoil your day is to avoid wearing cotton. When wet, cotton can make the body feel colder, causing your body temperature to irregulate, so it’s best to choose more water-resistant fabrics instead.

How to stay cool while kayaking in the summer

When choosing your summer kayaking clothing, there are a few main things to consider:

Staying protected from the sun

Whether wearing a hat or sunglasses or making sure you have suncream to hand, it’s important to stay well protected from the sun with the amount of time you’ll be exposed to it.

Taking these precautions is important to avoid overexposure, heatstroke, or burning, even on cloudier days.

Moisture-wicking clothing

Taking part in vigorous exercise, especially during the summer, will cause you to sweat. Choosing moisture-wicking clothing for summer kayaking helps keep the moisture from your sweat away from your body for a much more comfortable experience.

Chafing prevention

The heat from the sun, the dampness of the water and the movements involved in kayaking can be a recipe for chafing friction disaster to the body. Rash vests come in handy to prevent friction, helping to keep the body protected. 

Shop watersport clothing at Northshore

Plan and be smart with your kayak clothing this summer, and don’t let misjudgement ruin a beautiful day on the water. Check out our full range of watersport clothing from NorthShore Watersports and find everything you need for comfortable kayaking all in one place.