How To Stay Protected During Summer Sailing

It’s summer, and arguably the time of year when you’ll experience some of your most enjoyable times on the water. Longer days, lighter winds and warmer temperatures make this time of year particularly perfect for coastal day trips or longer weekends away and sailing holidays. That said, it’s important not to mistake comfortable conditions for risk-free ones.

While summer sailing doesn’t usually mean constant exposure to heavy rain and prolonged weather systems, it still brings its own kind of exposure nonetheless. You’ll be spending long hours outdoors, often with direct sun exposure, reflected UV from the water, shifting breezes and intermittent spray. In other words, the risks are different but still very real.

Staying comfortable in the summer is all about preparing before you set sail and choosing technical sailing clothing and equipment that keeps you protected, rather than reacting once you’re already too hot or sunburnt. Here are the things we’d recommend you really focus on to stay protected during summer sailing. 

Wear UV Protection Sailing Clothing

One of the most impactful things you can do to stay protected during summer sailing is to think beyond suncream and wear the right clothing. Opt for UV protection sailing clothing that’s specifically designed for long days on the water by using technical fabrics that provide an additional layer of defence against the sun. 

A dedicated UV t-shirt, like those in our UV layers range, is engineered specifically for life on the water in the sun. The UV Tec collection is constructed with UV 50+ protection built into the fabric itself, meaning the protection won’t wash out over time. The fabric is also exceptionally lightweight and quick-drying, helping you to stay comfortable even in hot and sweaty conditions or particularly active periods. It also wicks moisture away from the skin, helping to regulate body temperature while providing reliable sun protection during the day.

If you’re experiencing slightly cooler mornings or breezy afternoons, add a lightweight sailing hoodie or UV outer layer like the UV Tec Long Sleeve Zip Tee, which offers the same technical performance with the added benefit of extra coverage for your neck and arms.

Don’t Forget Suncream

That said, even the best UV protection sailing clothing can’t cover every part of your body. Make sure that you apply a high-factor, water-resistant suncream before leaving the marina and remember to reapply it throughout the day. 

Certain areas of your body are easier to miss than others, but it’s also often these areas that are incredibly exposed when you’re out on deck all day. Your ears, the back of your neck, the tops of your feet and your hands are some of the most commonly missed spots, so make sure you’ve covered them nicely before setting sail and take the time to reapply throughout the day (and always after direct water exposure).

Protect Your Head & Eyes

As soon as the sun comes out, light will reflect off the water and increase surface glare. When you’re dealing with this all day, your eyes have to work significantly harder than usual and need to be protected.

In addition to your UV protection sailing clothing, make sure that you wear a lightweight sailing cap to shield your face from direct sunlight while reducing glare. Add a pair of polarised sailing sunglasses too, and you’ll notice a considerable improvement in both comfort and visibility. It might look like overkill, but we promise you’ll thank yourself when you’re not spending the whole trip squinting into the sun.

Keep Your Waterproofs Close By

Warm weather and settled weather are not the same thing. You only have to be caught by a sea breeze once, or encounter an afternoon shower when you’re further along the coast, to realise that having a waterproof sailing jacket with you at all times can be a seriously clever move. 

This doesn’t necessarily mean taking your heavy weather sailing jacket everywhere you go, but rather a lightweight and easy-to-carry outer layer like the Voyager Waterproof Jacket or Pilot Sailing Jacket. You’ll hopefully spend most of your sail without needing either, but you’ll certainly appreciate having something waterproof to chuck on when the temperature drops or a shower appears out of nowhere. 

Stay Hydrated

One of the biggest challenges during summer sailing is that dehydration often creeps up unnoticed. When you’re enjoying your surroundings in a steady breeze or working through a tight mark rounding, it’s easy to lose track of how long it’s been since your last drink. A cool breeze can also mask how much fluid you’re losing, making you feel more comfortable and cooler than you actually are.

However, by the time you actually feel thirsty, your concentration and energy levels will have already started to decline. Keep a reusable water bottle close by and make a real effort to drink throughout the day rather than waiting to guzzle the whole bottle when you feel properly dehydrated. You’ll see the rewards in terms of performance.