What to Wear Kayaking in Cold Weather: Practical Tips [Updating 2024]

Now, stick with me, ’cause I’m about to break down the whole enchilada on dressing for icy paddling adventures. I’ll hit you with the must-have gear and some nifty tricks to keep you so warm, you’ll feel like you’re kayaking in a hot tub. All that and a bag of chips coming up in this guide.

How to Dress for Cold Water Kayaking?

Warm Up Right – Begin with Baselayers

Let’s spark up the heat with the unsung hero of cold-weather kayaking gear – the base layer. This isn’t just any old shirt; it’s the first line of defense between you and the cold kiss of the waters.

Imagine slipping into a second skin, one that’s all about keeping your body’s thermostat just right. You want to wrap yourself in the wonder wool – merino, or hitch a ride with synthetic pals like polyester. These are the fabrics that don’t just soak up moisture; they wick it away, leaving you as dry as a joke without a punchline.

Even when the waves try to chill you to the bone, these materials are your loyal guards, keeping warmth on your side. So, remember, a great base layer is more than just clothing – it’s your first step to laughing in the face of the cold.

Upgrade Your Coziness: Midlayers Included

Once you’ve got your base layer down, think of your insulating layers as your personal climate control system. Fleece and wool are the MVPs here — think of them as your cozy confidants, always ready to envelop you in warmth. They’re like a thermos for your body, offering up a sip of toasty bliss with every layer. But here’s the cool part: they’re also breathable, so you won’t feel like you’re in a sauna unless that’s your thing, of course.

Layer them up like a delicious winter lasagna — as many as you need to match Mother Nature’s mood. Whether it’s one snug fleece or a duo of woolly wonders, you’re the artist, and warmth is your canvas. Make it your own and stay toasty as you paddle your way through the nippy airs and icy stares of the cold waters.

Lock in Warmth: Choose Immersion Wear

Now for the grand finale: your outer layer, the shield against the ruthless elements. Picture this: you’re gearing up for an aquatic adventure, but it’s not just any splash in the pond – we’re talking sub-60°F waters, where the chill factor is more than just a number. It’s time to suit up like the maritime superhero you are. The choice is yours: the impenetrable drysuit that seals out water like a fortress or the wetsuit, your second skin that harnesses the power of trapped water to create an insulating layer of warmth. Both are valiant guardians against the cold weather’s cunning attempts to sneak in.

Remember the golden rule: Dress to plunge, not just to lounge. Your gear should be a life raft of warmth even if you take an unexpected dip. It’s about being prepared for the full embrace of the waters, not just a gentle caress of the breeze. Always scout out the weather and water like a true kayaking connoisseur, and choose your wardrobe as if the water’s whispering your fate.

Follow these commandments of what to wear kayaking for cold-weather, and you’re all set to conquer the chill. Embark on your frosty escapades with the confidence of warmth as your loyal ally. Paddle forth and carve your joy into the icy waters!

Best Kayaking Gear for Cold Weather

Braving the icy kiss of cold-weather paddling isn’t just invigorating – it’s a full-on adrenaline dance with nature. But here’s the kicker: the right gear is your VIP pass to not just surviving, but thriving. Gear up with these top-tier kayaking essentials for when the mercury takes a dive:

Safety First: Always Wearing PFD (Lifejacket)

Come rain or shine, the unspoken hero of kayaking is the trusty personal flotation device (PFD). And when the cold season rolls in, it’s your silent guardian, your watchful protector. Don a cold-weather PFD, engineered with robust materials that do more than float – they’re your personal insulating warriors, standing vigilant to ward off the chill if the waters decide to test your mettle with a surprise dunk.

Head Wear

When venturing into the nippy embrace of cold-water kayaking, your noggin’s warmth is non-negotiable. Crown it with a beanie or neoprene hood, the reigning champions of thermal defense. Opt for a cozy fit that clings to your head like a seafaring sidekick, steadfast and secure, even when the waves get cheeky and try to tip your kayak.

Pogies & Gloves

Let me lay it down for ya – when kayaking in cold weather, pogies are your best mates. They cozy up right on your paddle, giving your paws the VIP treatment without making you lose your grip. And if you’re more of a glove person, snatch up a pair of neoprene gloves. They’re like wetsuits for your hands, keeping ’em toasty and dry. But don’t just grab any old gloves; make sure they’re cut out for kayaking. You want ’em waterproof and grippy, ’cause slipping up when you’re in the zone? That’s a no-go. Trust me, choose the right gear, and you’ll stay as warm as a campfire, even when the cold water’s throwing shade.

Footwear and Lower Body Picks

Selecting Footwear for Cold Water

Want to amp up the coziness factor? Layer up with neoprene socks under your booties or shoes. It’s like having a personal heater for your feet! These socks are crafted from the same toasty material as the neoprene booties, offering that bonus buffer against the cold. They’re the unsung heroes in the battle against the chill, sealing in the warmth so you can glide over the water without giving the cold a second thought.

Protective Lower Body Clothing

As you set sail on your chilly aquatic adventure, remember, your lower half is your fortress against the frosty depths. To keep things toasty down below, think of donning a wetsuit or a drysuit—they’re like a trusty, snug armor suit for the sea warrior in you. And for those who prefer a dash of freedom with their splash, board shorts layered over a thermal barrier might just be your style anthem. Each of these options is a ticket to embracing the cold without letting it dampen your spirits.

Wetsuits are made of neoprene material and provide excellent insulation to keep your body warm in cold water. They come in different thicknesses, so you can choose the right one for the water temperature you’ll be kayaking in.

Drysuits are designed to keep you completely dry while kayaking in cold water. They are usually made of waterproof and breathable material and come with latex seals around the neck, wrists, and ankles to prevent water from getting in.

Board shorts are a great option for kayaking in warmer weather. They are made of quick-drying material and provide protection from the sun and wind. If you’re kayaking in colder weather, you can wear board shorts over your wetsuit or drysuit for extra protection.

For more details, check out in our previous blog How to Keep Feet Warm When Kayaking ?

Additional Accessories and Considerations

Photographed by Shivkumar Sd

Diving into a kayaking quest in the nippy embrace of cold weather? Suit up smart, but don’t stop there. Arm yourself with a trove of essentials and keep your wits sharp for what lies ahead. Ready for the rundown? Here it goes:

Sun Protection and Weather Preparedness

Think the sun’s warmth is a cold-weather ally? Think again! The sun is still playing its tricky game, bouncing off the water’s surface with even more fervor. Arm your skin with sunscreen and shield your eyes with UV-protective sunglasses—it’s your personal line of defense against the sun’s stealthy glare. But wait, the weather’s mood swings are part of the adventure! Peek at the forecast before you embark, and pack a storm cag or paddling jacket. Rain or gusts may try to crash your party, but you’ll be the unshakable guest, ready to ride the waves no matter what.

Safety and Emergency Equipment

Safety isn’t just a priority—it’s your kayak’s invisible but invincible co-pilot. Buckle into your personal flotation device (PFD) like it’s your suit of armor in the aquatic realm. Tuck a whistle or signaling device into your kit; they’re your trusty heralds in the off chance you’ll need to summon aid. Don’t voyage out without your first aid kit and any essential meds—they’re as crucial as the paddle in your hands. And for those just-in-case moments, a dry bag is your treasure chest, keeping your valuables safe from the clutches of the treacherous waters.

Don’t just paddle; fuel your journey with bites and sips that keep your energy afloat. Pack snacks that are like little lifeboats for your hunger, and a thermos filled with a warm elixir to keep the chill at bay. And remember, a savvy kayaker is always ready to mend their trusty vessel, so bring along a toolkit for those unexpected repairs. With this treasure trove of prep and precaution, you’ll carve through cold waters with the comfort and joy of a seasoned explorer.

Check Out More: Kayak in the Winter: Essential Gear and Safety Tips [Complete Guide]

Frequently Asked Questions

Photographed by Spencer Gurley Films

Q: Can I wear everyday athletic wear for kayaking in colder weather, or do I need specialized gear?

A: Think of kayaking in the cold as venturing into a frosty wonderland; ordinary athletic wear just won’t hold up like the trusty armor of specialized gear. Regular sportswear lacks the magical fabric to shield you from the icy kiss of the elements. Instead, clothe yourself in the kayaker’s winter cloak—drysuits, wetsuits, and paddling jackets. They’re your personal guardians against the cold, woven with the sole purpose of keeping you toasty and dry as you dance with the waves. Investing in this gear is like investing in a warm embrace, ensuring not just comfort but your utmost safety amidst the chilling splendor.

Q: What layers are essential for kayaking in chilly temperatures?

A: Picture yourself kayaking as a bold explorer in the heart of a frosty realm—your protection against the chill is an artful layering of attire. Kickoff with a trusty base layer, a moisture-wicking champion that keeps your skin as dry as a seasoned adventurer’s wit. Then, pile on a valiant mid-layer, your personal insulating sidekick that traps warmth like a cozy campfire. Top it all off with a stalwart shield layer, your defense against the capricious wind and water’s spray. Choose your materials like you’d choose your gear—quick-drying and moisture-wicking—to ensure that even when nature plays rough, you stay snug as a bug in a rugged kayak rug.

Q: Are wetsuits necessary for kayaking during the winter months?

A: Think of wetsuits as your personal coziness cocoon for winter kayaking adventures. While they’re not a must-have for every icy paddle, they are like a secret weapon against the chill when the water whispers wintry tales. Should you dare to glide through colder currents or linger longer in the lap of nature, a wetsuit wraps you in an extra layer of warmth, standing guard against the bracing elements. On the flip side, if your journey is a brief escapade or the chill is just shy of shivering, specialized paddling attire might just be your perfect ally, keeping you agile and snug without the full embrace of neoprene.

Q: What safety precautions should I take when kayaking in cold water conditions?

A: Braving the icy caress of cold water kayaking is not for the faint of heart—it’s a thrilling dance with danger that demands respect. Your first mate in this aquatic ballet should always be a personal flotation device (PFD), snug and secure, as if it were tailored just for you. Adorn yourself in garb that whispers defiance to the whims of weather and water, and pack an extra layer or two—it’s the safety blanket you hope to never need. Before you chart your course, share your voyage plan with a trusted soul, ensuring they are your lifeline to civilization. Paddle not in solitude, for there is safety in numbers. Keep your senses as sharp as the waters are cold, eyes peeled for the treacherous tango of strong currents or the stealthy approach of ice. With each stroke, let prudence be your guide, and let adventure be your tale.