What to Wear for Kayaking

Don’t let cotton underwear ruin your day.

If you’re dressed right, you’ll stay dry (or dry enough), stay warm (or cool enough), and enjoy your time on the water. We often say “dress for immersion” because if you end up in the water, you’ll be safe and comfortable and not soggy and miserable. Here’s how we dress for kayaking, season by season—based on real-life experience from thousands of paddlers and a lot of trial and error.

🦺 Life Jackets (a.k.a. Personal Flotation Devices)

Wearing a life jacket is the single most important thing you can do to stay safe on the water. A U.S. Coast Guard–approved personal flotation device (PFD) keeps your body afloat if you fall in. Everyone in your group should wear one—no exceptions.

But not all life jackets are the same. What you want is a lifejacket you actually want to wear:
•    Snug without digging in
•    Comfortable as you move your arms in all directions
•    Doesn’t bunch up under your arms or ride up toward your chin
•    Doesn’t push you forward when sitting in a kayak
•    Has pockets or gear loops for essentials like a whistle or phone case

Go bright. The best thing you can do for visibility is choose a high-visibility color like neon orange, yellow, or green. Avoid black or dark colors—even if they look sleek.

Look for PFDs labeled “Harmonized Level 70”—that’s the current U.S. and Canada standard for recreational kayaking. We use low-profile foam vests that prioritize comfort and freedom of movement. Be prepared to return the first one you buy. Not all models feel good on every body, and a jacket that feels awkward will tempt you to take it off.

Care tip: Rinse with fresh water after paddling, let it dry fully, and store it indoors. Empty the pockets—leftover snacks can attract critters and ruin the fabric.

☃️ Winter (Below 50°F Water Temp)

December through April

When the water is below 50 degrees, it’s not optional: you need a drysuit.
• Drysuit: This is a full-body waterproof shell you wear over insulating layers. It seals at the wrists, ankles, and neck to keep water out if you fall in. We use Kokatat brand suits and trust them.
• Base Layers: Wear polyester or merino wool underneath your drysuit—no cotton ever. Add more layers on colder days.
• Neoprene Booties: These keep your feet warm when the water is cold.
• Skip the Splash Top: It’s built into the drysuit, so you don’t need a separate one.

Pro Tip: If you’re paddling in the winter, you also need to think about extremities. That means neoprene gloves or pogies, and a warm hat. We have a full cold water gear guide if you’re ready.

🌱 Spring and Fall (50°F–60°F Water Temp)

May and November

This is the transitional season when it’s warm in the air but cold in the water. Here’s what we wear:
• 3mm Sleeveless Wetsuit: Allows full arm movement and is easier to move in than full-sleeve wetsuits. We wear a rash guard underneath so we can wash it easily and avoid neoprene armpit funk.
• Rash Guard (Polyester/Spandex): Long- or short-sleeved, depending on the day.
• Splash Jacket: For wind or late-day paddling. Put it over your wetsuit and remove it when you’re warm.
• Neoprene Booties: Still needed to keep your feet warm in cool water.

Note: We don’t let beginner paddlers out in street clothes during this season. If you’re with us, you’ll be given a wetsuit. The risk of cold water shock is real under 60°F, and we plan around it.

☀️ Summer (60°F+ Water Temp)

June through September

This is when most people paddle, and when comfort is the goal.

• Splash Jacket: Bring one in your dry bag to stay warm around sunset or if you get wet.
• Quick-Dry Clothing: Polyester or polyester-spandex blends are ideal. Most athletic clothes are made of this breathable fabric. Look for recycled materials if you can.
• Sun Protection: Long sleeves for UV coverage, plus a brimmed hat (snug or with a chin strap). Don’t forget the back of your neck, hands, and ears when applying sunscreen—ideally a marine-safe brand.
• No Cotton: Even 10% cotton will cling to your skin and stay wet forever. Once you paddle a few times, you’ll weed all the cotton out of your paddling drawer.
• No Flip-Flops, No Bare Feet: You want sandals with a real sole (like Chacos), neoprene water shoes, or sneakers you don’t mind getting wet. Water socks are too thin to protect your feet from glass or nails.

Real Talk: Most beginners splash themselves without realizing it. Expect to get wet and bring extra clothes.

Wearable Gear

Some gear is only useful if it’s on your body. Once it’s stowed away, you may not reach it when it matters most. Therefore, keep essential items directly attached to your body.

🕶️ Sunglasses

Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from UV rays and cutting glare off the water. If you’re shopping for a pair, don’t splurge because kayak trips are notorious for eating sunglasses.

Look for:
•    Polarized, scratch-resistant lenses
•    UV protection
•    Saltwater-resistant parts
•    Floating or bright-colored frames you’ll spot if they fall in

To keep your shades from disappearing mid-paddle, use a sunglasses strap or retainer. Some float, others are low-profile and more comfortable, but not all are equally pleasant behind the ears, especially if you wear them all day.

If you’ve got prescription lenses, test your setup ahead of time to make sure it actually works for you. A quick pre-trip check can save a lot of squinting (and regret) later.

📱 Cell Phone in a Waterproof Case

A smartphone with charge is essential for navigating new waters, checking the radar, or calling for help. Use a waterproof case with a tether or carabiner, and keep it securely clipped or zipped into your life jacket.

📻 VHF Radio

An essential tool for alerting other boats to your presence or calling for help. Make sure it’s fully charged, turned on, and securely attached to your life jacket with a lanyard and S-carabiner.

🔊 Whistle

A whistle is a low-tech, high-impact way to get someone’s attention. It never runs out of battery and works even if you’re not visible. Every life jacket should have one, and many come with one built in.

🔦 Flare or Signal Mirror

Flares (great for day or night) and signal mirrors (for daytime) can help rescuers find you from a distance. Paddlers rarely expect to need them—but you should still carry one in your PFD pocket, especially if you’re paddling solo or leading others.

💧 Hydration System

This is a slick alternative to a water bottle connected to your deck’s bungee cords via a carabiner. A compact hydration bladder lets you sip anytime through a hose. Some life jackets have hydration sleeves built in, or you can look for one with a compatible add-on when buying. Just make sure it doesn’t block access to other gear or restrict movement.

☀️ Sunscreen

A small container of reef-safe sunscreen in your pocket makes it easy to reapply during long paddles. It’s also something worth sharing with others, think of it as Mentos “The Freshmaker” for kayakers.

🍬 Quick Energy

If you’re paddling hard or out for hours, stash a snack or energy chew in your life jacket. A small sugar boost can help keep your energy up when you need it.

🔪 Knife

Fishing lines are invisible, and unexpected water dynamics can cause tangle-ups. A compact stainless-steel utility knife is essential for cutting yourself or someone else free. Keep it within reach, mounted to your life jacket, and easy to open with one

Final Word

The right clothing can make the difference between a great day and a miserable one. What you wear matters for both safety and comfort. In cold weather, the right gear keeps you warm. In hot weather, it helps you stay hydrated and burn-free. And with the right setup, you’ll be prepared to for many challenges that can come your way.

We don’t sell gear, but we’re always happy to help answer questions. If you’re unsure what to wear or pack and want to learn from the lessons we’ve learned, just reach out. We’re here to help.