When you’re new to kayaking, there’s a lot to get your head around. Once you’ve chosen the best kayak for you, the paddle and grabbed yourself the correct licence, there’s still the matter of clothing. Below, we take the time to go through all the things you need to consider when heading out kayaking.
Dressing for kayaking isn’t like dressing for other outdoor activities. You need to account for the weather and temperature but also account for water temperature. Additionally, much of dressing for kayaking is about layering.
Please note, we will be looking at what to wear for recreational kayaking in the UK in spring and summer. We will not be looking at white water kayaking, kayak surfing or kayak fishing, or what to wear when winter kayaking.
Safety first
There’s one item that isn’t optional – a personal flotation device, also known as a PFD, life jacket or buoyancy aid. These devices are typically vest-like floats that you can wear, that will help you stay afloat should you end up in the water.
Even if you are a strong swimmer, you should wear a PFD. They can help you stay afloat for long periods, which is essential if you are far from land or being carried by a current and can’t reach the riverbank. They can also keep you on the surface of the water should you be unconscious, helping others rescue you from the water.
What to wear kayaking
When you’re on a recreational kayaking day out, there’s a good chance you aren’t intending on ending up in the water. However, it’s best to dress as though you will. Layers are key here, too, as you can change your clothing to suit the temperature.
Tops
Avoid heavy cotton and slow-drying materials. We recommend a quick-drying base layer, such as a rashguard. You can wear a looser synthetic t-shirt to keep movement unrestricted and dry times to a minimum. A splashproof jacket can go under or over your buoyancy aid.
If the weather is on the chilly side, we recommend wearing a wetsuit under your layered clothing.
Bottoms
Swimming bottoms are the best bet here. If you want to keep warm, some quick-drying leggings are best. Non-cotton sports underwear is also acceptable and can be worn underneath sports shorts or sports trousers.
No jeans, hiking trousers or cotton joggers.
Footwear
Some light sports trainers will be acceptable for your first few outings – however once wet they do take a while to dry. Velcro-fastened sandals are also acceptable, though note they will not protect your feet from knocks and bashes. Cheap neoprene boots are available and offer good protection and dry quickly.
We do not recommend kayaking barefoot – though tempting, sharp materials on riverbeds, beaches and banks can cause harm.
Accessories
We recommend taking a cap, sunglasses with a head strap, and waterproof sun cream. Water reflects the sun, so be prepared. Gloves with gripped palms can also be of use for anyone who gets cold hands or wants to prevent blisters from a day of paddling.
What clothing to avoid when kayaking
We recommend that you avoid the following:
• Cotton
• Wool
• Thick layers – big jumpers, winter coats
• Absorbent materials – padded jackets, for example
• Designer and valuable clothes – these are likely to get ruined
• Heavy footwear, such as hiking boots
William Lobley is a Deputy Tech & Fitness Editor and reviewer for What's The Best. He also writes for Empire Online.
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