Gear up!
If you're serious about sailing, you should be serious about wearing the proper gear too.
Head, shoulders, knees, and toes
Here's a few things that would be nice to have, but are not required in order to be a part of the club.
(These are suggestions of what to buy. The links may be labeled as 'mens' or 'womens' but the products themselves are not gender-specific and apply to all. Don't feel the need to buy the exact product, or even feel pressured to buy anything at all.)
Warm-Weather Sailing:
Towards the beginning of our fall season (in September) and the end of our spring season (in April), the air and water temperatures are warmer. Wearing the right clothing can help you sail well while still appropriately dressed.
Hat Wearing a ball-cap or visor keeps the sun off your face and out of your eyes.
Gloves Although the weather is warmer, you still need gloves. Finger-cutoff gloves protect your hands, allow for
you to grip the ropes well, and provide maximum hand maneuverability
T-Shirt Depending on the air temperature, you may want to wear a t-shirt, tank top, or long-sleeve tech shirt. Keep in mind that you still want to wear breathable material that is wicking when wet.
Swim Shorts Because you are sitting on the rail (edge( of the boat while sailing, your bottom often gets wet. By wearing
waterproof swim shorts that get wet but dry fast, you will still feel comfortable.
Water Shoes You can still wear dinghy boots in warm-weather sailing, but Chacos, Tevas, Keens or another form of
waterproof shoe that will not slip off is best.
Cold-Weather Sailing:
Towards the end of our fall season (in October) and the beginning of our spring season (in March), the water as well as air temperatures are quite chilly. Wearing the right clothing can help keep you safe, warm, and comfortable.
Beanie Hat Always an essential, a nice beanie hat keeps your head and ears warm in cool temps.
Gloves Keeping your extremities warm while sailing is critical. By wearing insulated, waterproof gloves (even
warmer if paired with a hand-warmer inside each one), your fingers will remain nice and toasty.
Spray Top A spray top is like the shell of a rain jacket. It can be put on over a fleece, long-sleeve, or other warm
layer, and protects the sailor from any water that may come up from spray while sailing.
Spray Pants Spray pants operate similarly to snow pants - minus the insulation. This piece of the sailor's fit keeps the
legs dry from any moisture or water.
Dinghy Boots These are no ordinary boots. Dinghy boots are simultaneously waterproof and allow for excellent traction in the boat. You should wear a thick pair of wool socks and toe warmers during cold-
weather sailing to keep your feet warm.
"Cotton is rotten!" For layers underneath spray gear, make sure to wear socks, long underwear, sweatpants, shirt, and fleece layers that are wool, nylon, or polyester.
Other Non-Essential Essentials:
-
Sunglasses
-
Sunscreen
-
Hand warmers
-
Foot warmers
-
Snacks
-
Duffel bag (for gear)
-
E-tape