List of recommended clothing to wear for sea kayaking and canoeing

• Spraydeck if in a sea kayak (H)
• Knee pads if in a canoe
• Waterproof jacket / cag / drysuit
• Waterproof trousers
• Wicking base layer
• Fleece/wool mid layer(s) OR thin wetsuit
• Wellies / trainers / wetsuit boots
• Buoyancy aid/PFD (H)
• Hat
• Gloves / pogies
• Sunglasses
• Quick drying trousers or shorts
• Warm socks
• Helmet
• Waterproof watch

H = Hire locally? (Check availability)
L = Group leader
NOT ALL ITEMS ALWAYS NEEDED!

Clothing to wear sea kayaking / canoeing

Outer clothes designed for canoeing are usually very tough and highly waterproof, so beware of overheating! The clothing you wear for sea kayaking or canoeing depends a lot on the conditions. In hot weather, for instance, a light wicking base layer and shorts might be enough and will help you keep cool (that said, you should always ‘dress for immersion’ as a safety precaution). But if it’s cold and windy, you will want warm layers, with a waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers over the top. A dry cag and trousers, or a full drysuit, is a real luxury (good UK brands include PeakUK, Typhoon and Lomo). Some paddlers choose a wetsuit as their main layer, but it needs to be thin enough (or a ‘farmer john’ style) to allow comfortable arm movement. If you are in a sea kayak, a spray deck provides a lot of warmth and security. But if you are paddling an open canoe, you may want kneepads to make kneeling more comfortable.

Remember a hat appropriate to the conditions (a peaked/brimmed hat is great for UV protection). Any type of gloves can work, but ‘pogies’ allow kayakers to feel the paddle shaft better. Generally, helmets are only needed if you are in shallow or fast moving water (eg: surfing, rock hopping, rescue practise). Finally, you will need foot wear that will protect you from rocks and stay on even if swimming.

PFD or lifejacket?

It is highly recommended to wear a correctly fitted buoyancy aid (PFD) for both sea kayak and canoe journeys. By contrast, a lifejacket is better suited to emergency use on ships.

Also see:

• Sea kayak and canoe kit list
• Canoeing and sea kayaking in Scotland’s wild waters
• Canoe paddling strokes and techniques

Sea kayaking and canoeing wear FAQ