What to Wear Coastal Sailing

Often referred to as a second skin, our base layers are vital for temperature regulation and moisture management. When coastal sailing, you should look for a base layer that combines good moisture management with warmth. For Kayleen, it’s important that the base layer keeps you warm when you're stationary, yet dry when you're building up heat from grinding on a winch.

Midlayers are your main source of warmth when on the water but also need to be breathable and movable. Kayleen prefers a synthetic vest or jacket for periods of high-intensity work or in inclement weather. On dry cold days or when she's winding down, she reaches for a down jacket to keep her warm.

Look for protection on windy days and waterproof barriers for waves and damp breezes. Your outer layer needs to be waterproof for ocean sprays and rain showers. As Kayleen says, “I find myself reaching for my offshore jacket even on the inner waterways due to its big collar that covers my chin and the warm fleecy pockets.”

Our Men's Skagen Offshore Jacket offers weather protection with waterproof, breathable and windproof HELLY TECH® Performance 2-layer construction. A fleece-lined collar keeps the warmth in, while the adjustable hi-vis hood, face shield, hem and cuffs enable a customized fit for comfort and SOLAS-approved reflectives ensure visibility at sea.

Our fully-seam sealed Women's Crew Hooded Jacket offers waterproof, windproof and breathable protection. The versatile shell jacket includes a packable hood, a high fleece-lined collar and an adjustable drawcord.

Coastal sailing pants should be durable: a reinforced seat and knees are a big plus. For optimal mobility on deck, you might want pants with articulated knees. Big pockets and easily adjustable suspenders can make daily activities on the boat smoother. And of course, a waterproof and breathable HELLY TECH® construction will protect you from the ocean swell and your own sweat.

Like many other sailing shoes, coastal sailing shoes should have a sturdy grip and quick-dry fabric, such as a high-performance sneaker hybrid with an open-mesh construction that enhances breathability, and flexibility, while the structural overlays protect the feet from deck hardware.