Sailing clothing should keep you warm, with keeping dry being less of a priority. If you plan to continue sailing, you will want to invest in sailing clothes specifically designed for the sport. Although they can be expensive, they are not necessary at first.
Wetsuits If you have a 3mm or 4mm sailing/surfing wetsuit, it makes sense to wear it. (Diving wetsuits are too thick and restrict movement too much.) The club has some wetsuits you can borrow. We can usually accommodate everyone, but there may not be a suitable one for you. Wear underwear and a thermal or synthetic long-sleeve shirt if you have one. Avoid cotton t-shirts as they are very cold when wet. Bring a sweatshirt or pullover to wear over the top, as wetsuits only stay warm while you are moving around. If you have a lightweight waterproof cagoule or jacket, bring that as well. We have a limited number of spray tops to lend.
Clothing If we cannot fit you with a wetsuit, you will need a full change of clothing.
Upper body Wear many layers. If you have a thermal vest, wear it, followed by a shirt, sweatshirt, and pullover. The more layers you wear, the warmer you will be, and you will be able to move around more easily. Avoid bulky clothing as it restricts mobility. It is always colder on the water than you think, so wear at least one more layer than you would ashore.
Lower body Warm trousers, such as cords or track suit bottoms, are preferable to jeans. You will need a good belt or means of holding them up, as moving around the boat tends to lower them! If we cannot fit you with a wetsuit, we have a limited supply of waterproofs to go over your clothes.
Feet Wear old trainers with socks or thermal socks. Your feet will get wet. Please do not wear wellingtons or hard-soled shoes. Wellington boots fill up and hard shoes can damage the boats. We have some wet-boots you may be able to borrow.
Head A hat is essential, as you lose much of your body heat through your exposed areas, and an uncovered head is a big area.
If you need to wear glasses while sailing, use an elastic cord to keep them secure. They can get knocked off and lost overboard.
The club will supply you with a buoyancy aid that you must wear at all times on the water.
Change of Clothes and Towel. Even if we don’t capsize you, there’s often lots of spray. Make sure you have a complete change of clothes and don’t forget a towel.
Powerboat and Safety Boat courses Early season courses can be cold when sitting still, and you may get wet with spray. Wetsuits, pullovers, and spray-tops are essential. For those sailing/capsizing dinghies for safety boat exercises, drysuits are highly preferable.