What should you wear while paddling your kayak?
This is one of the most important questions we get asked. You get a kayak, paddle, PFD and now you must decide how to dress while enjoying all this great gear. Should I wear a drysuit, wetsuit, or sun wear? — this depends mainly on:
- Water temperature
- Air temperature
- Weather conditions
- Type of paddling (e.g., whitewater vs. calm lake)
- Risk of capsize
🧊 Cold Water, Cold Air (Water < 60°, Air <60°)
Primary concern: Hypothermia from immersion.
✅ Wear:
🌡️ Cool Water and Air (Water 60–70°F, Air 60°-80°)
Moderate risk of hypothermia if capsized.
✅ Options:
- Farmer John/Jane wetsuit (sleeveless) with splash top
- Or a drysuit if air temp is coolish or it is windy
- Neoprene booties
- Synthetic or wool base layers
- PFD
🌞 Warm Water and Warm Air (Water > 70°F. Air > 80°)
Low risk of hypothermia; focus on sun protection and hydration.
✅ Wear:
- Sun wear: quick-dry shirt (long sleeve UPF-rated), shorts or leggings
- Wide-brim hat or cap with sun flap
- Sunglasses with strap
- Water shoes or sandals
- PFD
- Lightweight windbreaker in case of weather changes
🌀 Whitewater or Open Ocean Paddling
Even in warm weather, these are high-risk environments. Always dress for immersion.
✅ Wear:
- Drysuit or wetsuit depending on water temp
- Helmet (if whitewater or surf)
- Neoprene gloves and secure footwear
- PFD
Quick Summary Table:
| Conditions | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Cold water (<60°F) | Drysuit | Keeps you dry and warm |
| Cool water (60–70°F) | Wetsuit or drysuit | Thermal protection |
| Warm water (>70°F) | Sun wear | Comfort + sun safety |
| Risk of capsize | Dress for water, not air | Safety first |
Hypothermia Water Temperature Chart Without proper immersion wear or a PFD
Water Temperature (F) Exhaustion or Unconsciousness How long can I survive?
< 40° F 15 – 30 min. 30 – 90 min
40 – 50° F 30 – 60 min. 1 – 3 hours
50 – 60° F 1 – 2 hours 1 – 6 hours
60 – 70° F 2 – 7 hours 2 – 40 hours
70 – 80° F 3 – 12 hours 3 – Indefinite
