Are There Specific Sailboat Clothes?
There are different types of clothing made specifically for sailboats. These items, which are usually designed for bad weather, protect sailors from the harsh environment when out at sea.
There are summer and winter sailboat clothes that are breathable or insulated. The way these items are designed varies between manufacturers, but they primarily protect sailors from the sun, the cold, or sometimes both.
Specially-made sailing clothes are a necessity for long voyages, especially in the open ocean. However, on shorter coastal voyages (particularly in warm climates like Florida), specialized clothes aren't absolutely required—though they can help protect you from the sun and the occasional rainstorm.
Traditional Sailing Clothes
Traditional sailing clothes vary widely in form and function. What many people think of are classic New England yachting clothes, such as short-sleeve collared shirts and khakis. These are largely isolated to that region and traditional sailing clubs.
Practical sailing clothes include leather boots and thick rain ponchos. These clothes have been used for decades due to their practical utility, though more modern options are better suited for sailing.
Large, loose ponchos work well in wet and cold weather—though they restrict movement, visibility and pose a snag risk when operating winches or moving around the deck. As a result, loose clothing should be avoided, along with anything that drags on the ground.
Modern Sailing Clothes
Today, synthetic materials have largely replaced the heavy and costly natural materials once used for waterproof and thermal sailing clothes. This is because synthetics are better at breaking wind and repelling water, and they cost a lot less to produce.
It is true that synthetic materials don't last as long, and they're not as durable. However, they're more comfortable and offer a greater range of movement and flexibility, which is especially important on sailboats in inclement weather conditions.
Sailing Clothes for Summer
Sailors have a ton of flexibility when choosing summer sailing clothes, especially in central and northern climates. This is because ocean conditions, particularly on the west coast, are very stable during the summer.
Due to the generally colder temperatures of the coastal Pacific, sailors on the west coast should bring wet weather gear along in case it gets windy. A 70-degree day can quickly become unpleasant if the wind picks up. Waves cause the boat to pound, which produces spray, and being soaked can make you quite cold.
Southern climates, such as the Gulf region, are much hotter and experience violent weather occasionally. This area requires different kinds of clothing, particularly clothes that breathe well and dry quickly.
In this region, you don't have to worry much about getting cold during the summer. However, being extremely wet can also be unpleasant. You're likely to get drenched during an afternoon storm if you sail a lot in the Gulf, so it's best to bring either fast-drying clothes or a rain poncho to keep you from getting soaked.
So from the information we've covered so far, we can put together a list of appropriate summer clothing for sailing. Here are some examples.
- Sandals
- Cargo shorts
- Swim trunks
- Athletic long-sleeve shirts
- Athletic short-sleeve shirts
- Boonie hats
- Baseball caps
- Tennis shoes
- Waterproof athletic shoes
In both tropical and temperate areas, you should always carry a rain poncho onboard. Additionally, consider investing in a wide-brimmed hat for protection from the sun, which is the biggest threat when sailing during the summer.
A long-sleeve athletic shirt is a great idea as well because you can use it to cover yourself and protect your arms from the sun. Always apply waterproof sunscreen when sailing during the summer, as the water and white fiberglass can reflect the sun and burn you from underneath your hat.
Winter Sailing Clothes
Choosing winter sailing clothes becomes much more complicated, as the weather can be extremely dangerous to those caught exposed. Getting wet makes the process exponentially worse and accelerates hypothermia risk from hours down to mere minutes.
A great level of protection is required to sail safely in the coldest climates. Also, keep in mind that an outside temperature of 60 degrees and a water temperature of 50 degrees can also induce hypothermia if you get wet or stay in the water too long.
For mild winter climates, such as that encountered on the West Coast, be sure to bring waterproof gear and something warm to wear underneath. A fleece jacket is a great choice, as it provides lightweight warmth and fits nicely underneath wet weather gear.
If you choose to go without foul weather gear, be sure to bring gloves and a windbreaker at the very least. A poncho is also helpful, as it can protect you from light spray.
Gloves are particularly important for winter sailing. If your hands get cold and numb, you can lose your ability to manipulate lines and winches—which spells disaster during a winter sailing excursion. Staying warm is necessary to stay mobile, and you need to control your boat effectively.
Keep in mind that wet weather gear isn't breathable, so use layering instead of wearing a single thick jacket. This also protects you if you get wet, as you can shed the wet or sweaty layer and replace it with a dry one.
True waterproof foul-weather gear is required for winter sailing in colder climates. This attire is designed to prevent water from ever touching your body or clothing, and it also works as an excellent windbreaker. Foul-weather gear is loose-fitting enough to allow internal layering but tight enough to avoid getting snagged on lines and machinery.
Based on the information above, here is a list of a few items to consider purchasing before going out on a winter sailing trip.
- Windbreaker
- Wool sailing hat
- Full foul-weather gear
- Fleece lining or jacket
- Sweatshirts
- Rain poncho
- Insulated waterproof boots
- Winter sailing shoes
- Waterproof gloves
- Winter socks
When it comes to footwear, it's best to use something designed for wet and foul weather. Waterproof purpose-made sailing boots with a high top are the best choice, but traditional waterproof leather boots are also an option.
Can You Wear a Wetsuit While Sailing?
You can absolutely wear a wetsuit while sailing in some conditions. Wetsuits are popular for racing as they provide insulation and an excellent range of motion when you're constantly wet.
Wetsuits are ideal for mild conditions that lean on the cold side. They are best used on boats or in conditions where the spray is constant—such as when sailing an aggressively heeling boat at high speeds or in choppy weather.
The primary purpose of a wetsuit is to keep you warm when you can't avoid being wet. A wetsuit is not sufficient for cold weather sailing in most cases and should be avoided when it's particularly hot as it poses a heat risk. It's best to avoid thick insulating clothing in hot weather—and wetsuits altogether if possible.
Are Sailing Clothes Expensive?
Sailing Clothes I'm not necessarily expensive, though purpose-made our weather gear it's often costly. Many of the synthetic materials used in lightweight waterproof gear are patented or proprietary, which allows manufacturers to charge a hefty premium.
In mild conditions, where the weather gears are necessary, you can equip yourself with adequate sailing clothes from discount stores such as Walmart. This is especially true in hot weather as protection from the sun is the primary objective. However, in colder climates, investing in the proper gear it's not optional.
The average cost of the weather gear for winter weather is between $150 and $500 for a one-piece set up. Additional clothing and apparel, such as waterproof and insulated nonslip boots, can cost an additional $150 or more. If you're serious about winter sailing, it's best to budget about $1000 for protective gear.
How to Find the Best Sailing Clothes
Only you can determine what the best selling clothes are for your particular climate and weather conditions. However, the advent of online shopping has made it easier than ever to acquire the right gear and affordable prices. If you're unsure what to wear, it's best to dress up rather than dress down.
You can always shed a layer in cold climates, and it's hard to regain body warmth after losing it. In warmer areas, always dress as if you're spending an entire day out in the sun. Remember that the water in the boat can reflect sunlight and intensify burns, so cover your skin if you can. Sunscreen is a necessity regardless of the clothing you wear.
Best Sailing Clothes Retailers
Personally, any kind of sailing apparel can be found online through brand websites in large stores like Amazon. Some brick and mortar stores are known to carry high-quality sailing gear, such as REI and West Marine.
These tenders usually charge more than online stores, but shopping in person allows you to check the fit prior to purchasing. This is essential, especially for winter sailing gear.
