Florida is a great place for kayaking because it’s warm all year and has lots of rivers and lakes. Whether paddling along the coast, weaving through the Everglades, or exploring spring-fed rivers, kayakers in Florida can enjoy a wide variety of scenic environments. However, Florida’s sunny skies and humid heat can also pose challenges for proper kayaking attire. Picking the right clothes for kayaking in Florida matters because it keeps you comfy and safe.
This guide will provide an overview of the recommended clothing and gear for comfortable and safe kayaking adventures across Florida. Proper preparation with appropriate clothing can help ensure that paddlers get the most enjoyment out of their time on the water.
Florida’s Ideal Climate For Kayaking
Florida’s climate is generally warm and humid, making it an ideal destination for kayaking enthusiasts. It’s mostly warm in Florida, with hot summers and less cold winters. This means you can go kayaking there any time of the year.
In summer, it gets really hot in Florida, sometimes reaching the 90s, and it’s humid. Keep hydrating yourself and put on sunscreen when kayaking to stay safe. Thunderstorms are also common in the afternoons, so it’s advisable to check the weather forecast before heading out on the water.
During the winter months, temperatures in Florida are much milder, ranging from the 50s to 70s. Many people, both tourists and locals, like to go kayaking in Florida during this time because the weather is great for it.
Things To Wear in Florida’s Intense Sun
When kayaking in Florida, protecting yourself from the sun is crucial. The sun in Florida is intense, and the UV levels can get really high. Without proper protection, you risk getting a painful sunburn or heat-related illness. Follow these ways to keep yourself safe:
Hats
Wear a hat with a wide brim to cover your face, neck, ears, and the back of your neck. Baseball caps don’t provide enough coverage. Look for a hat made with lightweight, breathable fabric. Also, use a strap under your chin to make sure your hat stays on and doesn’t fly away.
Sunscreen
Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on all your exposed skin. Reapply it every 2 hours while kayaking, and more often if you’re sweating or swimming. Use a water-resistant formula so it stays on in the water. Don’t forget oft-missed spots like your ears, lips, feet, and back of your neck.
UV Protective Clothing
Wear clothing made with tightly woven fabrics with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). UPF-rated shirts, pants, buffs, and sun sleeves can provide excellent sun protection for area clothes cover. Target UPF 30 or higher. Synthetic fabrics like polyester tend to offer better UV protection than cotton.
Shirts
When kayaking in Florida, be sure to wear moisture-wicking shirts made of synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon. Choose shirts that are labeled as “dry fit”. These shirts are made to soak up sweat and dry fast, keeping you cool and preventing chafing.
Opt for long sleeve shirts, even on hot days, to provide protection from the strong Florida sun. The lightweight, breathable fabric of moisture-wicking shirts makes them comfortable even when the temperature rises. Wearing long sleeves helps protect you from jellyfish stings if you accidentally touch them.
Rash guards are great shirt options for kayaking. These are moisture-wicking shirts designed for water sports that provide UPF 50+ sun protection. The tight fitting style keeps the guard in place and won’t flap around. Rash guards come in short and long sleeve options. They’re very lightweight and quick drying.
Shorts/Pants
When choosing shorts or pants for kayaking in Florida, look for quick-drying synthetic material that will keep you cool and comfortable. Also, don’t wear shorts or pants made of cotton because they get heavy and may cause irritation when they get wet.
Some good options include:
- Swim Shorts: These are made to be light and dry fast. They allow freedom of movement while paddling. Look for shorts made of nylon or polyester.
- Hiking or Athletic Shorts: Like swim shorts, these are made of quick-drying material like nylon or polyester. They usually fit a bit loose and have extra pockets for keeping things.
- Leggings: Leggings made of synthetic fabrics like polyester and spandex provide sun protection for your legs while allowing for unrestricted movement. They dry faster than cotton leggings.
- Paddle Pants: Specific pants designed for paddling have features like stretch panels, pockets, and leg zippers to convert to shorts. Materials like nylon resist water absorption.
The main goal is to avoid cotton shorts or pants that will stay wet against your skin. Opt for synthetic blends that will dry quickly and keep you comfortable in Florida’s heat and humidity.
Footwear
When you go kayaking in Florida, make sure to wear shoes that can get wet and keep your feet safe. The warm climate means you won’t need insulated boots, but you want shoes that will stay on securely when paddling.
Wear water shoes or sandals with straps, they’re the best choice. They allow water to drain out while protecting your feet from rubbing against the kayak or scraping on rocks and logs. Look for sturdy soles with traction to avoid slipping. Popular options are designed by brands like Chaco, Keen, and Teva.
Booties are another good choice – neoprene socks with rubber soles. They seal out water and provide a tight fit so your feet won’t slide around the kayak. Booties also protect against scrapes and stings.
Avoid open-toed shoes like flip flops or slip-on water moccasins. They can easily slide off in the water and offer no protection. Also skip hiking boots or regular sneakers, which will get soaked and heavy during your kayaking adventure.
Eye Protection
Protecting your eyes from the bright Florida sun is crucial when kayaking. Wearing quality sunglasses or goggles will allow you to see properly while paddling and avoid eye strain or damage.
Sunglasses should offer 100% UV protection. Polarized lenses are ideal as they reduce glare bouncing off the water surface. Wraparound styles help keep out light and wind coming in from the sides. Choose dark colored or mirrored lenses for the brightest conditions. Make sure the frames and lenses are impact resistant in case your sunglasses get bumped or dropped.
Straps to secure your sunglasses are a smart choice since they prevent losing your shades if they fall off. Look for sunglass retention devices that attach to the earpieces or frame. A strap slung around the back of the neck allows your sunglasses to rest on your chest when not covering your eyes. Some retention cords connect to your life jacket as an added safety measure.
Florida’s Cold Weather Attire
When kayaking in Florida during the cooler winter months, you’ll want to dress appropriately for the water temperatures. Here are some tips on what to wear:
Wetsuit
A wetsuit is a must for kayaking in cold water. The neoprene material will keep your body insulated from the cold water. Look for wetsuits in 2-3 mm thickness. You want it to be form-fitting but not restrictive. A wetsuit with long sleeves and legs will offer the most warmth. Consider features like a high collar for extra neck protection.
Drysuit
For the coldest water temperatures, a drysuit is recommended over a wetsuit. A drysuit seals out water completely, keeping you dry underneath. It’s worn over a base layer and insulating mid-layers. You have full range of motion as the suit has flexible joints. Drysuits require extra gear like latex gaskets and a relief zipper, so they are more complex than wetsuits.
Layering
Layering underneath your wetsuit or drysuit is important for insulation. Put on a shirt made of synthetic or wool material as the first layer directly on your skin. Then add mid-layers like fleece or a synthetic insulating jacket and pants. The layers will keep you warmer by trapping air between them. Don’t overdo it though – too many tight layers can restrict movement. Keep your innermost layers dry to maintain their insulating properties.
Extra Items You Should Have
When kayaking in Florida, it’s important to be prepared for any situation by carrying some essential extras with you. Here are some important things to bring:
Waterproof Phone Case
You should definitely bring a waterproof case for your phone when kayaking. Even a splash of water can damage your phone, so make sure it’s sealed in a waterproof case before getting on the water. This will allow you to safely store your phone and still be able to take photos and access it if needed without worrying about it getting wet. Look for a phone case made of durable plastic with a tight seal to keep water out completely.
Whistle
A whistle is a compact, lightweight safety item that can be hugely important if you need to signal for help while kayaking. Get a whistle with a lanyard so you can wear it around your neck or wrist and access it easily if you end up in the water unexpectedly. The loud, piercing noise can alert others if you have an emergency.
First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen any time, so a basic first aid kit is recommended for kayaking trips. Bring bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, and other important things to take care of small cuts, scrapes, or burns. Pack it in a waterproof bag or medical kit box. Don’t forget to bring your personal medications, like an EpiPen or inhaler, if you need them. Having these supplies on hand could be vital until emergency responders arrive.
Life Jacket
Always wear a life jacket that fits well when you go kayaking in Florida. It’s a must, and you need a U.S. Coast Guard-approved one for each person on your kayak, as per the rules. Having it with you isn’t enough – Florida law actually requires each kayaker to wear their life jacket at all times while on the water.
When choosing your life jacket, be sure to get the right type and fit. For kayaking you’ll want a Type III life jacket, which allows freedom of movement for your arms and is designed not to ride up. Take the time to properly adjust all the straps so the jacket doesn’t feel loose or constricting. Check that the life jacket is snug but still lets you breathe easily.
Opt for a brightly colored life jacket that contrasts with blue ocean waters. Vivid colors like red, orange or yellow make you much more visible to other boats. Reflective tape adds another layer of visibility for early morning or evening paddling.
Rain Gear
Florida’s weather can be unpredictable, and sudden showers happen a lot. Having rain gear on hand is a smart move. Find a rain jacket and pants that keep water out. Make sure they are lightweight and easy to pack. This gear will not only keep you dry during unexpected showers but also protect against wind chill.
Insects Repellent
Florida’s waterways are home to numerous insects, including mosquitoes, which can turn your kayaking adventure into a nightmare. A good insect repellent can be very effective. Choose a repellent that is water-resistant and has a high DEET concentration for long-lasting protection.
Last Words
Proper clothing is crucial when kayaking in Florida to ensure both comfort and safety. The sunny, hot, and humid Florida climate calls for lightweight, breathable clothing that also provides sufficient sun protection. Kayaking is a wonderful way to experience Florida’s abundant waterways and wildlife, but dressing properly for the conditions helps ensure you stay cool, comfortable and safe during your paddling adventures. With the right clothing, you can fully enjoy your time kayaking in the Sunshine State.
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