HOW TO WEAR YOUR VAIKOBI GEAR

A Vaikobi temperature guide appears on all Vaikobi product pages, to help you understand what gear will best support you through all conditions. We're here to you better understand apparent air temperatures, and layer up and down according to the training and racing conditions.

What’s the difference between Temperature, and ‘Apparent Air Temperature’?

When you're paddling, wind and water exposure change how the temperature actually feels. That's why we use Apparent Temperature rather than the forecast number alone.

How to calculate Apparent Temperature:


Wind chill? Take a few degrees off the forecast. Calm day with no chance of getting wet? Add a few degrees. When in doubt, layer up — it's easier to cool down than warm up on the water.

FREEZING

For cold conditions on the water, wind chill is your biggest enemy. Add a wind-breaking layer for insulation, wear thermals from head to toe, and factor in extra protection if you're likely to get wet. Check out the VCOLD range for thermal options and make sure you've got something warm to change into after your session.

COOL

Cool conditions can make it hard to get out of bed, let alone hit the water - but the right gear makes all the difference. Layer up enough to feel warm before you leave shore, but avoid overdoing it. Too many layers and you'll overheat once you start paddling, which is just as uncomfortable as being cold.

For thermal options check out our VCOLD range for tops and bottoms, and make sure your feet are protected too - long exposure to cool water can cause real damage even when you can't feel it yet.

WARM

Often the ideal conditions to get on the water, warm days can still be tricky to dress for. Your body heats up fast once you start paddling, so breathability and the ability to layer up or down is key.

Check out our range of lightweight tops and shorts, and don't forget a hat or cap to manage heat and keep the wind off your head without overheating.

HOT

Sun protection is the priority in hot conditions. Cover up with UV clothing - long sleeve tops are your best friend for keeping the sun off without overheating. Don't forget to protect your eyes and stay on top of hydration, especially on longer sessions where sweating can sneak up on you.

Layering for watersports

As well as choosing the right gear for the conditions, layering is a great way to manage your temperature through a session. Start with enough to feel warm, then peel back a layer once you've heated up. A good base layer gives you flexibility across a range of conditions - add or remove depending on what the water and wind are doing that day.

SHOP ALL
FAQs
What do I wear for watersports in cold weather?

The right cold water gear helps protect against cold shock and keeps you comfortable even if things go wrong on the water. Check out our blog for what to wear cold water paddling

What is the best life jacket for kayaking or paddling?

Vaikobi PFD's are designed specifically for paddlers — built to keep you safe without restricting your arm movement. Check out our range of paddling PFD's here.

What do I wear on my legs while paddling?

Protecting yourself on long sessions matters more than people think. Our paddle pants include a neoprene layer for padding and warmth where you need it most. Check out our blog on what to wear paddling here.