The Proper Apparel For Sailing
What you should wear for sailing depends on the weather conditions and the type of sailing you’ll be doing. Here are some general guidelines:
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Life Jacket: Safety is paramount when sailing. Always wear a properly fitted life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) when you’re on the water.
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Clothing Layers: Dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing as needed. Here’s a breakdown:
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Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Synthetic materials like polyester or merino wool work well.
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Insulation Layer: Depending on the weather, add an insulating layer for warmth. Fleece or lightweight down jackets are good options.
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Outer Layer: Your outer layer should be windproof and waterproof. A sailing jacket or waterproof shell is ideal. Make sure it has sealed seams to keep water out.
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Pants: Wear waterproof and breathable pants or bibs to keep your lower body dry. Look for options designed for sailing or other water activities.
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Footwear: Choose non-slip, waterproof sailing boots or deck shoes. They should have good grip to prevent slipping on wet surfaces. Make sure they are comfortable and have good support for your ankles.
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Gloves: Sailing gloves protect your hands from rope burn and help with grip. They should be lightweight and provide good dexterity.
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Hat: Wear a brimmed hat or a sailing cap to shield your eyes from the sun and keep rain or spray out of your face.
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Sunglasses: Invest in polarized sunglasses with UV protection to reduce glare from the water and protect your eyes from harmful rays.
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Sunscreen: Apply waterproof sunscreen to exposed skin, even on cloudy days, as you can still get sunburned on the water.
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Neck Gaiter or Buff: These can protect your neck and face from wind, sun, and spray. They are versatile and can be pulled up to cover your face in colder or wet conditions.
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Extras: Consider bringing spare dry clothes in case you get wet, and a dry bag to keep important items like your phone and documents dry. You may also want to bring a waterproof watch to keep track of time.