Dress for the water temperature, not the air. Warm water means quick-dry layers and sun protection; cold water (under ~60°F) means a wetsuit or drysuit. Add a hat, polarized sunglasses and footwear you can swim in.
The golden rule: dress for immersion
You will get wet, and you might go in. So dress for the water temperature, not the sunny air. This one principle prevents the most dangerous mistake in the sport — wearing shorts on a warm day over cold water and suffering cold-water shock. See our safety guide for why this matters so much.
Warm water
Quick-drying synthetic or wool layers, board shorts or quick-dry pants, and a long-sleeve sun shirt (UPF-rated). The sun off the water is relentless — add a wide-brim hat, polarized sunglasses (they cut glare and help you spot fish), sunscreen, and a buff for your neck.
Cold water
Under about 60°F water, a wetsuit (3–5mm) or, for real cold, a drysuit with insulating layers underneath is not overkill — it is survival gear. Add neoprene gloves and boots. Your PFD goes over everything. The goal is to stay functional in the water long enough to self-rescue.
Footwear
Wear something secure that you can swim in and walk on slippery launches: water shoes, neoprene boots or sturdy sandals with heel straps. Avoid loose flip-flops and, in cold water, bare feet.
Frequently asked questions
Dress for the water temperature. In warm water, quick-dry layers, a UPF sun shirt, hat and polarized sunglasses. In cold water (under ~60°F), a wetsuit or drysuit with insulation. Always over it: a worn PFD, plus secure footwear you can swim in.
Almost always, at least a little — from paddle drips, spray and launching. That’s why cotton is a poor choice and quick-dry synthetics or wool are better. In cold conditions, plan your clothing around the real possibility of full immersion.
Secure, water-friendly footwear you can swim and walk in: water shoes, neoprene boots, or sandals with heel straps. In cold water, insulated neoprene boots. Avoid loose flip-flops that float away and bare feet on slick or rocky launches.