When it comes to clothing and kayaking, it's all about the weather. The wrong surface can quickly determine whether the day will be a success or not. Kayaking is a great way to enjoy nature and exercise. More and more people are taking up kayaking as a form of exercise, and the biggest piece of advice is to always check the road conditions before heading out on the water.
The innermost layer
If you start from the inside, the inner layer is crucial for comfort and time on the water. Wool has found its place in most people's wardrobes, and for good reason. Wool is sweat-wicking and has many natural properties that can cool the body, keep the body warm and provide warmth when it's cold. If it's extra cold this time of year, 2 layers of wool will give an extra good effect.
Vests
We always recommend wearing a vest when out on the water. Many people think that vests compromise the freedom of movement around the shoulders, but this is actually not the case. Modern vests for water sports are designed in modern foam materials for better buoyancy and lower water absorption.
Headgear
The head should never be underestimated. The head is the part of the body that gives off the most heat, so it's essential to keep your head warm while kayaking. A hat is important, and in the hot summer weather it might be a good idea to wear a cap. If technique needs to be practiced and kayak rolls are on the horizon, the neoprene hat is a great starting point. The neoprene hat keeps the water out and the heat in, but it can be tight, so use it according to the conditions.
Protect your hands
Protect your hands from the elements. Everyone is different, but the importance of a good pair of neoprene gloves cannot be underestimated. The worst thing is to freeze your fingers, and if you're extra cold, a pair of neoprene mittens can be just the thing. Many people think that the mittens are colder, but the mittens don't insulate your fingers and instead allow them to warm each other, so it's a great alternative.
The neoprene suit
The outer layer will often be between a wetsuit or a drysuit. The neoprene wetsuit is widely used in kayaking. The suit protects the body from the cold water and cold air that the Danish weather conditions can offer. There are only a few months of the year when the water temperature in Denmark rises above 12-13 degrees, so many would say that a wetsuit is always a prerequisite for jumping into a kayak. A full neoprene suit can get hot and uncomfortable in the Danish summer weather. In summer weather, many people switch to the modern sleeveless Long Johns. If you're more comfortable with your body not getting wet, there are also options in a dry suit. However, drysuits don't keep the body warm, so if you're going out on the road, you should pay extra attention to the inner layers. Here again, 2 layers of wool can be an advantage.
There are many different neoprene solutions for water sports and in the end it's all about how intense you sail. At One Open Sky you'll find a large selection of neoprene equipment, and if you have any further questions about the equipment, we are always ready to guide you!
