Kayak Clothing

Kayak Clothing – Not Just Another Pair Of Clothes!

Appropriate kayak clothing is a lifesaver for this water-based sport. Kayaking makes special demands on your body, so it is important that clothing should protect your body and give you freedom for movements during any paddling or related action. Your clothing should not only provide comfort, but should save your life.

The equipments and accessories you need depend on the type of craft you are paddling, the weather conditions and your personal resistance to the cold. The activity of the paddlers depending on the type of paddling they engage in varies during the course of a day. Thus, the clothing sense means suiting clothing to the varying needs of insulation required by changes in weather, activity and location.

Summer: In the warmest conditions, a pair of shorts and T- shirt top is fine. Feet should be shod with water shoes or neoprene booties. Synthetic materials are best suited. A brimmed hat with a chinstrap is essential to protect your head and help keep cool. Finish your summer assemble with quality sunglasses. Avoid cotton clothes as they do not dry, it remains wet with no insulating ability.

Winter: Be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially from wind on the large bodies of water when kayaking. The water temperature is an important consideration rather than the air temperature while choosing kayaking clothes. The temperature is frigid as 40 degrees enough to rob you of your strength after a few minutes of immersion. Better insulation can come from several layers of garment rather than single layer of same total thickness. Avoid wool. The three basic layers of clothing which gives sufficient insulation is:

1.Base layer (thermal tops) 2.An insulating layer (pile fibre covering) 3.A water/ wind proof layer. Feet have to be covered with neoprene booties with addition to woolen socks. A neoprene beanie is suitable and pre curved neoprene gloves are apt for hands.

Spring /fall: You need another layer to be comfortable. Your summer dressing is not sufficient. Avoid cotton. A paddling jacket cuts the wind and helps you stay warmer and dryer. For feet it is neoprene booties. To protect your head consider a fleece hat or neoprene hood.

Regardless of kayak clothing you wear, you will get wet, be it from a paddle splash or a complete flip. Jackets are must and should keep it loose. Quick drying, loose kayaking apparel is the best clothing for kayaking. It is essential to comfort and safety during all types of kayaking.