The Commodore Chronicles

What to Wear – 10 Essentials for Sailing

When getting ready for a sailing trip, whether a short one, or a longer adventure, function and safety should be your top priority. Being able to move quickly and easily is important, so loose-fitting, stretchy and comfortable clothing is the best option. Being prepared for all weathers and having the right safety equipment will make sure you are equipped for everything the sea can throw at you, so you hopefully get to stay warm and dry!

In this blog, we’ve compiled a list of 10 essential items you should never leave behind on any sailing adventure.

1) Life jacket

All sailors know that a life-jacket is vital for your safety at sea. Even if the sea appears calm, things can change quickly, so always make sure you wear your life jacket. Our yachts are fully-compliant with current Coding regulations, so we have enough for all on board, plus we carry spare lifejackets as well. All our lifejackets are serviced yearly to the manufacturers standards by our highly qualified service technicians who are factory trained and accredited. All our lifejackets are automatically inflated, should you fall into the water which is a great safety feature to have. Our lifejackets also have a spray-hood to stop water splashing your face, and an automatic light fitted to illuminate at night so you can be easily found should you end up in the water.

2) Waterproof trousers

Even if the water looks calm and the weather seems dry, always bring a pair of waterproof trousers with you. If you are wearing non-waterproof trousers and they get wet, the weight of the water can restrict your movement, and also mean you get colder quicker even in summer. If you have loose fitting waterproofs, they can fit comfortably over what you are already wearing.

3) Sailing jacket

While any waterproof jacket can do the trick, we recommend looking for a purpose-built sailing jacket. These are made from specialist materials, engineered to withstand heavy wind and waves over a longer period of time. Lightweight and easy to move around in, a sailing jacket has the perfect balance of warmth, comfort, and durability against the elements. Whilst the current colour trend of black jackets looks great, it does reduce your visibility to rescuers if you end up in the water. So, bright colours are best! Also, make sure your jacket had a stowable hood and reflective patches which will help rescuers find you if you are unfortunate enough to end up in the water.

4) Waterproof shoes or boots

We recommend wearing purpose-built sailing deck shoes or boots on the boat. They are waterproof, and slip resistant, which is essential for when the sea gets choppy, and throws water on deck. Plus, they protect your toes from getting stubbed! In winter, sailing boots are essential, as there is nothing worse than having cold wet feet. Go for one size larger than usual and layer-up with thick socks, and you’ll never have cold feet again!

5) Sunglasses

A good pair of shades is an essential piece of kit for beginners and experienced sailors. With more exposure to sunlight, and strong glares coming off the sea, and white sails and decks, a pair of polarised sunglasses are worth their weight in gold. We tend to avoid the more expensive sailing brands, as sods-law always says you will lose them, and they usually aren’t much different to the cheaper brands you can find online. Don’t forget to fit a retaining strap to them so you won’t lose them.

6) Dry bag

Completely watertight, and made from super-sturdy waterproof materials, a dry bag will make sure your kit, snacks, tech, and other essentials are kept dry in any weather. Investing in a top-quality dry bag will give you a piece of kit that will last for many years. Don’t buy hard-luggage as they aren’t easily stowed on a yacht and can become dangerous if not secured properly when the sea is rough.

7) Jumper or fleece

On any sailing trip, layering your clothes is everything! Bringing a cosy fleece or jumper with you will ensure you are equipped for strong winds and chilly breezes. Wear your jumper or fleece over your T-shirt, or under your sailing jacket for extra protection against cold weather.

8) T-shirt or light long sleeved top

Choosing a good base layer for sailing activities will ensure you are warm and comfortable in any weather condition. There is no need to spend-out on the latest sailing versions, which tend to come with a premium price tag – most sports thermal vests, T-shirts and long sleeve tops are made with moisture-wicking thermal material to help regulate your temperature in both warm and cold weathers at more affordable prices. Stuff made by Under Armour is very good but there are cheaper alternatives if you shop around. The main thing to remember here is that layering is everything. If you get too warm you can always remove a layer.

9) Sailing gloves

On any sailing trip, you will most definitely be pulling ropes, lines and sheets. To avoid the inevitable rope burn, decent sailing gloves will protect your skin and keep your hands warm in colder weathers. Sailing gloves are available both fingerless and fully covered, and in various designs for different times of the year. For winter gloves you can also buy merino wool undergloves to give a bit of thermal protection. Well worth getting!

10) A hat

When spending longer stretches of time on the open water during sunny weather, it’s vital to wear a hat or cap, to protect your head and face from sunburn. Baseball caps are generally a good bet in fair weathers, as they have a broad peak to protect your face and eyes from the sun. There are other brands and designs, like Tilley hats, but the bigger the brim, the more chance it has of getting blown-off in the wind! In colder weathers, a knitted beanie hat with a thermal lining works wonders. Its well worth bringing 3-4 hats with you on a sailing trip, so if one gets wet you can swap over to another one whilst it dries out. Having a cold, wet head isn’t fun!

Here at Commodore Yachting, we run a range of beginner sailing courses from our marina here in Gosport, combining practical and theoretical learning methods. Click here to find out more.

And as always, keep on sailing!………….