What To Wear On A Pontoon Boat?
If you have ever been on a pontoon boat before, then you know there are some things to consider when choosing the proper attire. The outfits you wear should do more than just look stylish, they need to keep you cool, and safe from the elements.
Remember The Sun
One of the most important things to remember is the effects of being outside all day. Heat exhaustion can quickly turn a good day into a horrible one. Lighter clothing can help keep your body from getting fatigued. Darker colors absorb the sun’s rays and make your body feel like it is in an oven. Keep your color choices to whites, creams, and lighter, summery colors. Short-sleeve shirts should match and be made of polyester, nylon, or other thin material.
Let’s talk about protecting your head for a moment. Since the sun’s rays are beating down on the top of your head, wearing adequate protection is essential. A mesh-style cap or brimmed hat will provide adequate coverage and let the skin on your scalp breathe. Avoid heavy materials, hats made of felt, or darker-colored ballcaps that absorb the sun’s heat.
Another factor for consideration is to bring plenty of sunscreen with you. While not a piece of clothing per se, sunscreen can help you protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays. (Technically, you do wear it.) The ADA (American Dermatology Association) recommends a water-resistant, broad-spectrum ointment with an SPF of 30 at a minimum. Apply the sunscreen about thirty minutes before departing, and plan on reapplying it throughout the day for maximum protection. (There’s nothing more stylish than racoon eyes because everything on your face is sunburned except where your sunglasses were).
Remember the Water
If your experience with boating is a swimsuit and wet hair, then you would be right. However, it is more than that. Things will get wet, so it is always best to bring a swimsuit and sun top for the time you spend in the water. Whether you like to plunge into the water or not, a swimsuit can help keep your skin drier because it is water-resistant. Most suits are very comfortable and can be worn under other clothing items. Always bring a bathing suit cover-up when not frolicking in the water. Whether you choose a one-piece, a bikini or tankini, or even something more revealing, a swimsuit is an absolute must.
It is essential to remember that water from the spray of the waves is likely to make the deck very slippery. A good pair of deck shoes that have non-slip soles will help you from falling and hurting yourself. You should avoid dress shoes with slick soles or leather shoes, as these tend to be less able to provide traction. And, of course, leather and water hate each other, so leave the leather gear at home.
Remember the Glare
Your body needs protection from the sun’s rays, but so do your eyes. Don’t forget that the sun’s rays are bright and will reflect off of the water, almost like a mirror. A pair of polarized sunglasses will eliminate the glare and make it much easier to spot things in the water, like swimmers or other boaters nearby. For those who usually wear glasses, a pair of polarized clip-ons or prescription sunglasses is an absolute must-have.
Remember the Wind
Even on the calmest days, when the weather is balmy, a pontoon will create winds just by traveling over the water. Modern pontoon boats with higher-powered engines are making their way to American waterways, so riders need to be prepared for stiff breezes. Think of traveling on a pontoon as you would traveling in a convertible. A scarf, hat, or hair pulled back and secured will be very helpful. The last thing you want to do is brush hair out of your face every moment of the day.
What Are Some Specific Clothing Ideas for Women?
We’ve included some great ideas for the ladies who need a little nudge about what looks are great and qualify on our list as the best outfit ideas.
Swimwear
A swimsuit is an easy option for style and ease of movement. While many kinds of swimwear are available, choose one that meets your personal preferences and body type. Whether you choose a one-piece, bikini, or something in between, you should pick an outfit you feel comfortable in because you are likely to be in it most of the day.
A good tip is to try on your swimsuit before you leave for the boat ride. This effort allows you to critique your boating outfit and ensure that you don’t have a wardrobe malfunction on the water (which can be highly embarrassing).
Your swimsuit does not have to be a designer outfit or cost you a fortune to be fashionable. Many manufacturers make trendy swimwear for all kinds of budgets. Start with your local department store or specialty boutique, where you can try the outfit and assess it before you buy.
(If your favorite retailer is online, ensure you have accurate measurements for the purchase. Many online retailers have size charts to help purchasers). The best times to purchase swimwear are spring and summer since the selection is plentiful and more styles and sizes are in stock.
While many types of swimwear can be purchased, you should look for one that compliments your body type. If you need support in the chest area, many outfits have underwire cups to help provide lift and shaping. Some one-piece outfits have inner panels that offer control and contour. Separates come in different sizes, so you can mix and match should you need to. It is very helpful when your proportions differ from a Victoria Secret fashion model.
Swimwear Cover Ups
It is always a great idea to wear a covering over your swimwear, whether a T-shirt dress, blouse, or a longer kimono-style wrap. The extra layer fits neatly over swimwear, is easy to get on and off, and can help keep you insulated against the cool breezes. A light linen shirt can be used as a covering, are popular attire, and with a matching belt, they can make a dynamic fashion statement. (Remember to choose lighter colors or floral prints for laying out in the rays, which you can often do on a pontoon boat).
Sundress
A sundress or maxi dress is a casual clothing option if you want to show a little bit less of yourself. Maxi dresses are airy wearables, easy to match with lovely patterns printed on them. Be sure to stick with lighter colors, sea patterns, or a nautical theme. Depending on your preference, sundresses can be worn separately or used as a cover over swimwear.
Shirts
It is always best to avoid wearing lacy tops because they do not provide enough protection from the sun’s rays. You want to wear a shirt that is comfortable and light or white in color. A nylon shirt or button down front blouse is a great choice. We don’t recommend T-shirts (they tend to shrink in the water, unless that is the style choice you are hoping to accomplish).
Shorts
Another outfit idea is to wear a pair of short cut-off jeans with a light-colored top. While usually, denim isn’t very conducive to water, it can be used as a part of a larger outfit (forexample, good pair of shorts can come in handy when not swimming in the water). Shorts are durable, easy to slip on and off, and look great. Spandex might help show off your curves, but they can fit so tightly that they hinder more than they help.
Capris
Capris are great summertime outfits and work well in a boating situation. They are longer than shorts, allowing the lower leg to be seen. If you are new to a boating trip, capris can be a great choice. (if you are wondering about skinny jeans, or pants, leave them at home - many pairs of pants are hot, constrictive, and not very waterproof).
Hats and Caps
It is always beneficial to protect your head from exposure. A wide-brimmed hat can be perfect for vacationing on pontoon boats. Choose a hat in the same color as your swimwear or in a contrasting color to your dress for a stylish effect. The choice is yours! You should always choose a hat that compliments the contours of your face and highlights any makeup you might be wearing.
Hair
If you have long hair, think about tying it off into a ponytail. (This preparation helps keep strands of hair from flying everywhere, will keep your neck area cooler, and will make your casual boating day more enjoyable. If you wear a wig, ensure it can withstand the stiff breeze that may occur when the pontoon boat is in motion. (Don’t forget the polarized sunglasses to protect one of the most vital senses of the human body, sight).
Shoes
A good pair of shoes are a critical piece of clothing. Non-slip sandals are helpful due to the water accumulating on the deck surfaces. You should bring along a sandal or shoe with some rubber soles rather than a slick sandal with no grip. Tennis shoes are definitely a plus, as they often provide the best adhesion to decking. Leave the heels at home. If you plan on catching some fish, wear something that you don’t mind getting dirty.
Light Jacket
A jacket is necessary for a a boating trip, since the air is quite cool coming off the boat as it cruises on the water. (If you are riding the pontoon out onto the open sea, you will need a jacket to wear). While you won’t need a puffy jacket, you will need something to cover your arms and torso. A breaker style of jacket with a hood is ideal, and are relatively easy to purchase in season.
Accessories
You should keep jewelry to a minimum. Midi-rings can easily slip off and be lost forever in the water. Try not to wear a long necklace (they don’t go swimming very well and can be a hazard during water sports). Watches and other valuables should be removed and kep in a water proof sealed baggie before entering the water. Just because those large hoop earrings match your outfit, doesn’t mean you should wear them.
Rod and Reel Gear
Okay, it’s time to admit that many women love to fish, and a pontoon boat is built for that purpose. The flat deck provides ample clearance for multiple lines in the water. If you fish, you know that fish guts, worm residue, and lake scum are part of the fishing process. If you suspect you will do some fishing, leave the designer clothing at home and bring along some clothes you don’t mind getting soiled a bit.
Another Reminder - Beach Towel
Most pontoons do not have changing rooms, (although some do), so you need to decide what to wear in advance. (A boat bag with a jacket, top and an extra towel or two is always recommended). Since most pontoon owners don’t think about stocking towels for their guests, the other riders will be grateful with your preparation if you have one for them to use.
What Are Some Specific Clothing Tips for Men?
While the recommendations for men are similar to women, there are some differences.
Non-slip Footwear
One of the most important items to wear on a pontoon boat is footwear. Decking can be slippery and the last thing you want is to loose your balance and fall in the water without intending to go swimming. Tennis shoes are great, but I prefer slip on boat shoes. Leave your Italian leathers at home, since they have no place anywhere close to the water’s edge. We don’t recommend flip-flops or sandals, even though they might be comfortable. (Unless you are spending part of the day on the beach, then bring them separately).
Caps
A mesh baseball cap is a perfect choice to keep your hair in place and provide a little relief from the sun. Cowboy hats are not the best choice because they usually end up in the water and are prone to fly off with wind gusts. (Just try to cruise across the lake only to see a gust of wind carry it off about a mile behind the boat). Sailing or fishing hats work but offer little sun protection, and you should probably wear a Captain’s hat only if you happen to be the one drving the boat most of the time (or you own the boat).
Jackets - Long Sleeve Shirt
This rule applies to men as much as it does women. It can get chilly crossing the lake on an open pontoon. Even though there is a bimini top to offer shade from the sun, there is no breeze barrier to keep high winds off of you. Wear a nylon or light windbreaker jacket with long sleeves for help here. Leave the jogging suits at home for the days you are on the treadmill.
Bermuda Shorts
A nice pair of shorts is a must. Bermuda shorts offer a nice look, while not being too tight in the private areas. Combined with a light colored T-shirt, or loose Hawaian shirt, the boat outfit can also make a fashion statement. Quick drying shorts are always a stylish choice.
Shirts - T-shirts
You can wear a shirt with a comical saying on it, but why would you want to? If you are unsure of how your guests will receive the message on your shirt, don’t wear it. A T-shirt with a slogan might be cute for about ten seconds, but it isn’t worth people having to stare at it all day long.
A Polynesian or Hawiian button down shirt is a better choice.
Jewelry
A waterproof bag to keep watches, chains and other valuables is always a good choice. (The bag can double for wet clothing when you need a place to store them for easy carry home). While it is always best to leave your Rolex at home, ensure that any jewelry you take is minimal and is the kind you want to get wet. Even though the gold you’re wearing around your neck gives you some swag, if it breaks and ends up in the bottom of the lake, it does no one any good at all.
What Is Most Important About Choosing Clothing for a Boat Ride?
If nothing else, you should choose clothing that provides both form and function. Pontoon fashion is casual, sporty, and most of all fun to wear.
Be Comfortable
A casual day on the water means relaxation and rest. Wear clothing that you are comfortable in, that doesnt constantly have to be adjusted, or monitored. Your goal on a party boat is to enjoy the festivities. If the clothing you choose is fashionable, but not very functional, you won’t end up having a good time at all. It does no good to have the latest chic look if your feet throb at the end of the day.
Be Safe
Safety is everyone’s responsibility, but a boat owner can only do so much. You can help matters by not wearing anything that might lend itself to an accident. Skip the killer high heels and wear the right sandals for traction on hard surfaces. Polarized sunglasses help with vision and a jacket will keep you from freezing on the cruise.
Life jackets are required for all riders and what’s even important, they can save your life. Don’t sacrifice your life just because a personal floatation device covers your look. Never place fashion above your own personal safety. If you are waterskiing or tubing with friends, wear a soft helmet to prevent head injury. It only takes one hard slap onto the water to make you wish you had worn one.
Be Prepared
If you are a parent, you might know that old boy scout motto: be prepared. Boating trips can wear little ones out. You should always pack an emergency bag with other items like a simple first aid kit, toilet paper, sunscreen and hand sanitizer. Make sure your cell is charged and avoid the urge to run the battery down by checking it every minute. The goal of a day on the water is for everyone to enjoy themselves building memories. (If you suspect you will be riding after dark, take a high-beam flashlight for helping riders navigate their way off the boat and down the dock).
If you have ever been boating before, you know that the weather can change in an instant, and the last thing you want is to be caught in a boat in a thunderstorm. An emergency poncho will come in handy if you happen to be caught in inclement weather.
