What To Wear When Kayaking And Canoeing

Heading out on the water in a kayak or canoe is an exhilarating experience, but wearing the right clothing can make the difference between an enjoyable adventure and a miserable outing. Whether you’re paddling on calm lakes, flowing rivers, or ocean waters, your clothing choices should prioritize safety, comfort, and adaptability to changing conditions. This comprehensive guide will help you dress appropriately for your next paddling adventure, ensuring you stay protected from the elements while maintaining freedom of movement.

The Golden Rule: Dress for Immersion

The most important principle when deciding what to wear for kayaking or canoeing is to “dress for immersion” or “dress for the swim.” This means wearing clothing appropriate for being fully immersed in the water, not just for the air temperature.

Water conducts heat away from your body much faster than air, so even if the air feels warm, cold water can rapidly lead to hypothermia if you capsize. This rule becomes increasingly important as water temperatures drop below 70°F (21°C).

For water temperatures below 60°F (15°C), wetsuits or drysuits are strongly recommended regardless of air temperature. Remember that your clothing choices are a critical safety consideration, not just a comfort factor.

Essential Paddling Attire: The Layering System

Base Layers: The Foundation of Comfort

Your base layer sits against your skin and plays a crucial role in moisture management and temperature regulation. When kayaking or canoeing, you’ll want materials that wick moisture away from your body.

For warm weather conditions, lightweight synthetic shirts are ideal. Look for quick-drying materials like polyester or nylon that won’t feel heavy when wet. Many paddlers prefer t-shirts or long-sleeve shirts with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings to protect against sun exposure.

In cooler conditions, thermal base layers made from synthetic materials or merino wool provide insulation while still wicking moisture. Avoid cotton at all costs – it absorbs water, dries slowly, and can lead to dangerous cooling when wet. As one Reddit user in r/Kayaking noted, “Assuming calm, warm weather, I usually wear cargo pants and a t-shirt, both made of synthetic material (dries quicker and feels much less uncomfortable when wet).”

Mid Layers: Insulation When You Need It

Mid layers provide insulation and are typically worn between your base layer and outer layer. These become essential in cooler conditions or when paddling in areas where temperatures can fluctuate.

A light fleece jacket is an excellent mid-layer option for kayaking and canoeing. Fleece retains warmth even when damp and dries relatively quickly. For variable conditions, having a packable mid-layer you can easily stow away is ideal.

REI experts recommend: “Take along a light fleece jacket so you can cover your arms and upper body if conditions change.” Remember that even on warm days, temperatures can drop suddenly on the water due to wind, shade, or unexpected weather changes.

Outer Layers: Protection from the Elements

Your outer layer serves as your shield against wind, rain, and spray. The specific type you’ll need depends on your paddling environment and expected conditions.

For casual paddling in mild conditions, a lightweight, water-resistant jacket might be sufficient. However, for more serious expeditions or unpredictable weather, consider investing in a dedicated paddling jacket (also called a splash jacket). These are designed specifically for water sports with features like adjustable neck and wrist closures, shorter cuts that don’t bunch up when seated, and materials that repel water while allowing perspiration to escape.

In colder conditions or when paddling in rough waters, a dry top or full drysuit might be necessary. These garments use gaskets at the neck, wrists, and ankles to prevent water entry, keeping you dry and warm even in challenging conditions.

Bottoms: Comfort and Mobility

When choosing bottoms for kayaking or canoeing, prioritize comfort, mobility, and quick-drying properties. Many paddlers prefer synthetic cargo pants or quick-dry hiking pants that offer freedom of movement and protection.

In warmer conditions, board shorts or quick-dry athletic shorts are popular choices. For additional sun protection or in areas with insects, lightweight synthetic pants may be preferable even in warm weather.

For cold-water paddling, consider neoprene pants, paddling-specific softshell pants, or the bottom half of a drysuit. These provide thermal protection and keep you drier in splashy conditions.

Seasonal Bottom Recommendations:

Summer: Quick-dry synthetic shorts or lightweight hiking pants
Spring/Fall: Synthetic hiking pants or paddling-specific pants
Winter: Neoprene pants, drysuit, or wetsuit depending on water temperature

Footwear: Protecting Your Feet

Appropriate footwear for kayaking and canoeing should protect your feet while providing grip on slippery surfaces. Your footwear should also be comfortable when wet and able to drain water efficiently.

Water shoes or sandals with secure straps are popular for warm-weather paddling. These allow water to drain while protecting your feet from rocks, shells, and other hazards when launching or landing.

In cooler conditions, neoprene booties provide insulation while still allowing you to move comfortably in your boat. For cold-water paddling, waterproof socks paired with appropriate footwear can help keep your feet warmer.

Footwear Choices:

– Water shoes with good drainage and grip
– Secure-fitting water sandals (with heel straps)
– Neoprene booties for cooler conditions
– Waterproof socks for cold water paddling

Essential Accessories for Comfort and Safety

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

A properly fitted PFD is the most important item you’ll wear while kayaking or canoeing. It should be worn at all times on the water, regardless of swimming ability or water conditions. Modern paddling PFDs are designed to allow freedom of movement while providing flotation.

As one experienced paddler on Reddit emphasized: “A PFD. As with anything, it depends on the water and time of year. Always dress for the swim.”

Sun Protection

Water reflects and intensifies sun exposure, making proper protection essential:
– Sunglasses with polarized lenses reduce glare from the water and protect your eyes
– A wide-brimmed hat or cap with a neck cape provides shade for your face and neck
– Waterproof, sweat-resistant sunscreen (minimum SPF 30) on all exposed skin
– UPF-rated clothing for additional protection

Gloves

Paddling gloves protect against blisters during long paddling sessions and provide warmth in cooler conditions. Full-finger gloves offer more warmth, while fingerless gloves maintain dexterity. Neoprene gloves provide additional insulation for cold-water paddling.

Head Protection

A hat with a secure chin strap prevents it from blowing away. In cold conditions, a neoprene beanie or hood provides crucial warmth, as significant heat loss occurs through the head.

Specific Scenarios: What to Wear When…

Recreational Paddling on Calm Waters (Summer)

For a casual day paddling on a calm lake or slow-moving river in warm weather:
– Synthetic quick-dry t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt with UPF protection
– Board shorts, quick-dry hiking shorts, or lightweight synthetic pants
– Water shoes or secure sandals
– Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap
– Polarized sunglasses with retainer strap
– Lightweight, packable rain jacket (just in case)
– PFD (worn at all times)

Spring/Fall Paddling

For shoulder season paddling when temperatures are moderate but water may still be cold:
– Synthetic or merino wool base layer (top and bottom)
– Fleece mid-layer or light insulating jacket
– Splash jacket or paddling-specific jacket
– Quick-dry hiking pants (avoid cotton jeans)
– Neoprene booties or water shoes with waterproof socks
– Beanie or insulating hat
– Lightweight gloves
– PFD (worn at all times)

Cold Water Paddling

When water temperatures are below 55°F (13°C), regardless of air temperature:
– Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
– Insulating mid-layer (fleece or synthetic)
– Drysuit or wetsuit appropriate for the water temperature
– Neoprene booties with thick socks
– Neoprene gloves
– Neoprene hood or insulated hat
– PFD (worn at all times)

Paddling on a Date

For those special occasions when you want to look good while staying practical:
– Attractive athletic or athleisure wear in quick-dry fabrics
– Avoid heavy makeup that might run if splashed
– Secure footwear that won’t slip off
– Bring a change of clothes and towel for after paddling
– Consider a light, packable jacket that looks stylish but provides protection
– PFD (yes, even on dates – safety first!)

As one Reddit user advised on r/femalefashionadvice: “Cute athletic or athleisure, and bring a change of clothes and towel in case you get wet and the date continues after canoeing.”

Troubleshooting Common Clothing Issues

Problem: Chafing from wet clothing

Solution: Apply anti-chafing balm to problem areas before paddling. Consider wearing compression shorts or tops under your regular paddling clothes to reduce friction.

Problem: Sunburn despite sunscreen

Solution: Use UPF-rated clothing instead of relying solely on sunscreen. Reapply waterproof sunscreen every 80 minutes, and cover more skin during peak sun hours (10am-4pm).

Problem: Overheating in protective gear

Solution: Choose breathable, ventilated options and use the “dip and drip” method – briefly immerse your hat or bandana in water and wear it wet to create cooling evaporation.

Problem: Cold hands affecting grip

Solution: Use neoprene gloves or pogies (hand covers that attach to the paddle) to keep hands warm while maintaining dexterity.

What to Pack: Beyond What You’re Wearing

Always bring a dry bag with:
– Complete change of clothes in a waterproof bag
– Additional warm layer, regardless of forecast
– Rain gear if not already wearing it
– Towel for after paddling
– Spare hat and sunglasses

For trips longer than a few hours, consider packing:
– Additional insulating layer
– Extra pair of socks
– Emergency space blanket
– Waterproof case for phone/valuables

Special Considerations for Different Paddling Environments

Ocean and Saltwater Paddling

– Consider rash guards or wetsuit tops to prevent chafing from salt water
– Rinse all gear with fresh water after use to prevent salt damage
– Use higher SPF sunscreen as reflection from water intensifies UV exposure
– Bring extra fresh water for rinsing salt off skin to prevent irritation

River Paddling

– Wear appropriate footwear for portages and scouting rapids
– Consider a helmet for whitewater sections
– Choose quick-release buckles on PFDs and avoid loose clothing that could snag

Wilderness and Multi-Day Trips

– Pack clothing with insect repellent treatment for bug protection
– Include base layers that can double as sleepwear
– Bring dedicated “dry clothes” that never leave camp
– Consider convertible pants for variable conditions

Conclusion: Dressing Smart for Safety and Enjoyment

Choosing the right clothing for kayaking and canoeing enhances both your safety and enjoyment on the water. By layering appropriately, selecting quick-drying materials, and dressing for possible immersion, you’ll be prepared for changing conditions and unexpected situations.

Remember that your specific needs may vary based on your paddling environment, weather conditions, and personal preferences. It’s always better to bring slightly more clothing than you think you’ll need, as you can always remove layers if you get too warm.

Most importantly, never compromise on wearing your PFD. No matter how good a swimmer you are or how calm the water appears, a properly fitted PFD is your most essential piece of paddling “clothing” and should be worn at all times on the water.

With the right clothing choices, you’ll be comfortable, protected, and ready to fully enjoy your paddling adventures in any season.