Whether you’re kayaking, canoeing or stand up paddle boarding, chances are you’re going to get wet. Plus, you’ll likely be going out in a range of temperatures and conditions as well, which means you’ll need to be wearing the right kit. This doesn’t need to break the bank. We’ve put together a list of essential kit for your paddling wardrobe that can be layered up or down. And the best bit is, you can wear the kit all year round for a range of activities. So you’ll definitely get your money’s worth!
Wetsuit
Wetsuits are a fantastic item of clothing to get you started on the water. When you’re learning to paddle, the chances are you’re going to find yourself taking the occasional dip. A wetsuit made from insulating neoprene rubber is a good piece of basic gear to invest in. The initial investment may seem expensive. But a good wetsuit (if cared for correctly) will last you for years and can also be used for other activities such as open water swimming and surfing. You can also wear it throughout the year and layer up or down depending on the temperature. There are a variety of wetsuits to choose from, ranging in thickness and design (full arm, short sleeve or sleeveless).
Splash Cag
Cags, also known as spray tops, are a must in cold weather conditions. They help to create a protective outer shell keeping you dry and shielded from wind chill. When looking for a cag for your paddling wardrobe you want to pick something that repels water and offers good wind protection.
Neoprene Gloves
Gloves can be a personal preference when it comes to paddling. Some paddlers like to wear gloves year-round to help with grip and to protect their hands from the cold. You can combine grip with a glove that can be worn across multiple seasons. Coming in all thicknesses, cuts, and shapes, there are so many different types of gloves out there. So as it gets colder, have a test of some gloves and see if there are a pair for you.
Changing Robe
A staple for most paddlers is a good quality changing robe that will keep you warm in the winter and protected all year round. There are so many versions of these oversized coats out there that you are sure to find one you like. Perfect to throw over the top of kit, get changed in, and even just on colder days on the bank, having a good changing robe can be game changing.
Buoyancy Aid
Finally, something every paddler needs is a buoyancy aid. Although there are not as many ways to wear a buoyancy aid, it’s something you should wear all year round. A lot of us may think we’re confident swimmers but, we can become easily disoriented when falling into the water, particularly in cold temperatures. There are so many different features that a buoyancy aid can offer, from pockets to hand warming pouches. To help you find the perfect one for you we have our guide to buying your first PFD.
It’s important to know how to check and maintain your buoyancy aid to ensure that it can continue to protect you whilst out on the water. Check out our article on how to look after your buoyancy aid for more information.
If you are looking for more advice or tips on what to wear whilst paddling, be sure to check out our other articles on choosing the right paddling gear.