What to Wear on a Boat: Tips for Comfortable and Safe Outings
Stephanie Patterson
Table of Contents
When it comes to what to wear on a boat, there are a few key factors to consider: comfort, practicality, and style. As someone who loves spending time out on the water, I’ve learned that the right outfit can make all the difference in ensuring a fun and enjoyable day out.
First and foremost, comfort is key. You’ll likely be spending a lot of time sitting, standing, and moving around on the boat, so you want to wear something that won’t restrict your movement or make you feel too hot or too cold. Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and lightweight knits are great options, as are loose-fitting shorts or pants and comfortable shoes.
At the same time, you don’t want to sacrifice style for comfort. After all, a day out on the water is the perfect opportunity to show off your favorite summer looks. Whether you prefer classic nautical stripes, bold prints, or simple neutrals, there are plenty of stylish options that are also practical and comfortable for a day on the boat.
Safety First
When it comes to boating, safety should always be a top priority. This means not only having the necessary safety equipment on board, but also wearing appropriate clothing and footwear.
Life Jackets
One of the most important safety items to have on board is a life jacket. In fact, according to the National Safety Council, victims drowned in approximately 80% of fatal boating accidents, and of those, 83% were not wearing a life jacket. This is why it’s crucial to have a properly fitting life jacket available for each person on board.
When choosing a life jacket, make sure it is a Type I, II, or III wearable personal flotation device (PFD). It should be easily accessible and comfortable to wear. It’s also important to make sure that everyone on board knows how to properly put on and adjust their life jacket.
Non-Slip Shoes
Another important safety item to consider when boating is footwear. Wearing non-slip shoes can help prevent slips and falls on wet surfaces. It’s important to choose shoes with good traction that will stay securely on your feet, even in rough waters.
Boat shoes or deck shoes are a good choice for boating, as they are designed to be non-slip and often have good drainage to keep your feet dry. Avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops, as they can easily slip off and provide little protection for your feet.
Weather and Water Conditions
Hot and Sunny Days
When the sun is out, it can get quite hot on the boat. It’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
It’s also important to wear lightweight, breathable clothing that allows air to circulate and keeps you cool. Avoid cotton clothing as it can become heavy and uncomfortable when wet with sweat. Instead, opt for synthetic fabrics like Gore-Tex that wick away moisture from your skin and keep you dry.
Rainy and Windy Days
When it’s raining and windy, it’s important to stay dry and warm. Wear waterproof clothing, including a rain jacket and pants, to keep you dry from the rain and spray. Layering is also important to keep you warm if the temperature drops.
Wear a base layer made of synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon that wick away moisture from your skin. Add a mid-layer made of fleece or wool for insulation, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer.
Cold and Chilly Days
When the weather is cold and chilly, it’s important to wear warm and insulating clothing. Layering is key to staying warm and comfortable. Wear a base layer made of synthetic fabrics to keep you dry and wick away moisture. Add a mid-layer made of fleece or wool for insulation, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer.
Don’t forget to wear a hat, gloves, and warm socks to keep your extremities warm. Overall, it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather and water conditions. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the boat and dress accordingly. Stay safe and comfortable by following these guidelines.
Comfortable Clothing
When it comes to what to wear on a boat, comfort should be your top priority. Spending long hours on the water can be tiring, so you want to make sure you’re wearing clothes that allow you to move freely and don’t restrict your movements. Here are some tips for choosing comfortable clothing for your next boating trip:
Breathable Fabrics
When you’re out on the water, the temperature can fluctuate, and you want to be prepared for any weather conditions. That’s why it’s important to wear breathable fabrics that will keep you cool and dry when it’s hot and humid and provide warmth when it’s cold and windy. Cotton, linen, and bamboo are great natural fabrics that allow air to circulate and wick away moisture from your skin. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are also good options as they dry quickly and are lightweight.
Sun Protection
Spending time on the water means exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. Protecting your skin from sunburn and other damage is crucial, so make sure you wear clothing that provides adequate sun protection. Look for clothes made from UPF-rated fabrics that block out UV rays. You can also wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen to any exposed skin.
Layering
When you’re on a boat, the temperature can change quickly, especially if you’re out on the water for an extended period. That’s why it’s important to dress in layers so you can easily add or remove clothing as needed. Start with a lightweight base layer made from a breathable fabric like cotton or bamboo.
Add a mid-layer like a fleece or sweater for warmth, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect you from the elements.
By choosing comfortable clothing made from breathable fabrics, providing sun protection, and dressing in layers, you’ll be able to enjoy your time on the water without worrying about your clothes. Remember, the key to a successful boating trip is to be comfortable and prepared for any weather conditions.
Footwear
When it comes to boating, it’s important to wear the right footwear to ensure safety and comfort. Here are two options that I recommend:
Boat Shoes
Boat shoes are specifically designed for boating and have unique features that make them the perfect choice for this activity. They have super-sticky soles with traction and channels to move water from underneath the shoe, so more rubber connects with the deck.
Since the boat is always rolling and rocking, shock absorption is another important quality. Boat shoes are also made of breathable, quick-drying materials to keep your feet comfortable and dry.
Some of the best boat shoes on the market include the Grundens Seaknit Boat Shoe, Columbia Dorado CVO PFG Shoe for men, and Columbia PFG Tamiami Shoe for women. These shoes are stylish, comfortable, and provide the necessary support for boating activities.
Sandals
Sandals are also a great option for boating, especially if you’re looking for something more casual and comfortable. However, it’s important to choose sandals that have a good grip and are made of water-resistant materials. Look for sandals that have a non-slip sole and a secure fit to prevent slipping and sliding on the boat.
Some of the best sandals for boating include the KEEN Newport H2 Sandals, Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals, and Chaco Z/Cloud Sandals. These sandals are made of durable materials, have a good grip, and are comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Accessories
Sunglasses
When you’re out on the water, the sun can be incredibly bright and harsh on your eyes. That’s why it’s important to bring a good pair of sunglasses. I always make sure to pack a pair with polarized lenses, as they help to reduce glare and improve visibility. Look for sunglasses with a wraparound style to provide maximum coverage and protection.
Hats and Caps
A hat or cap is another essential accessory for a day out on the water. Not only do they help to shield your face and head from the sun, but they also keep your hair out of your face and prevent it from getting tangled in the wind.
I prefer to wear a wide-brimmed hat, as it provides more coverage and looks stylish. However, if you’re worried about it blowing off in the wind, a baseball cap with a strap is a good alternative.
Waterproof Bags
When you’re on a boat, there’s always a chance that your belongings could get wet. That’s why it’s important to bring a waterproof bag to keep your essentials safe and dry. I like to use a dry bag, as it’s durable and completely waterproof. You can also find waterproof phone cases and pouches to keep your electronics safe.
Another option is to bring a backpack or tote bag made from waterproof material. Look for bags with multiple compartments and pockets to keep your items organized and easily accessible.
Conclusion
When it comes to what to wear on a boat, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you want to be comfortable. Opt for clothing that is lightweight and breathable, and avoid anything too tight or restrictive.
It’s also important to think about the weather and the activities you’ll be doing on the boat. If it’s going to be sunny and hot, make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. If you’re planning on swimming or participating in water sports, consider wearing a swimsuit or other clothing that can get wet.
When it comes to footwear, choose something that is comfortable and can handle getting wet. Boat shoes or sneakers are a good choice, while sandals and flip-flops should be avoided.
Overall, the key to dressing for a day on the boat is to keep it simple and practical. By following these tips, you can ensure that you’re comfortable, protected, and ready to enjoy a fun day out on the water.
