What Should I Wear When Paddling?

Q. What should I wear when paddling?

A. If you haven't kayaked before, it may be unclear as to what to wear.

Firstly, always wear a buoyancy jacket! It depends on the conditions you are paddling in, what time of year & how much you feel the cold, what you are comfortable in & what you are safe in.

I've paddled wearing:

  • Normal outdoor clothes
  • Swiming gear
  • Shorts/T-shirt
  • Waterproof over trousers / waterproof top
  • Wet suit
  • Dry suit

Importantly remember that you need to "dress for the water". Think about if you exited your kayak (ending up in the water) would you be able to get back in with what your are wearing & would it keep you warm in the water?