Whether you're setting sail or attending a glamorous yacht party, a selection of comfortable men's sailing attire will present you with options galore when it comes to choosing the appropriate outfit for your stint on the seas.
Dressing for Sailing
The plans are all set: you're setting sail on the high seas and prepared to have the time of your life. If you're a sailing regular, chances are you have a wardrobe of clothes set aside specifically for your excursions. If you're new to the whole thing, though, you might not yet own everything you need to make your time out on the water as comfortable as it can be.
That's right - there are some specific items you'll want to wear when you set sail. This is important for a few reasons. Of course, you'll want protection from excess moisture; you can expect to get wet, but that doesn't mean you have to be soaked by the time you get home. You also want to ensure that you're protected from potentially harsh conditions. Being comfortable is also essential. A boat is no place to wear constrictive clothing that doesn't allow your skin to breathe!
Proper Men's Sailing Attire
So what should you wear when you go sailing? Remember that safety comes first. Your clothes should be functional before anything else - now isn't the time to become a fashion plate. Your clothes should protect you not just from moisture, but also from sun exposure, cold weather, and even injuries.
Of course, what you wear also depends on what time of year it is and where you're sailing. If you're in a notoriously warm climate in the thick of summer, you probably don't need to layer up, but it's still helpful to have an extra top on hand just in case. Likewise, sailing during frigid weather means it's important to bundle up. Extra layers can always be removed as needed.
You'll also want to consider your role on the boat. Are you merely a spectator, enjoying the ride while your host does all the work? Or will you be learning the ropes or lending a helping hand? Depending on this, you'll want to dress accordingly.
The following items are basic requisites of standard men's sailing attire:
- Tops: Most likely you already own more than a few appropriate tops for sailing. A basic T-shirt, turtleneck, or sweatshirt will do the trick nicely, depending on weather conditions.
- Bottoms: Again, you likely already own these items. Shorts and sweatpants are ideal.
- Accessories: It's often the accessories that make the ensemble more functional. Invest in hats (wool and sun, for different seasons); thick socks; and sunglasses.
Helpful Hints
Even if you own those items, you're not exactly ready just yet. Take a peek at these tips to make sure you're 100 percent ready to get out there:
- Note that it's always chillier by the water, so even when temperatures are high elsewhere, you can count on them being a few degrees lower when you're sailing. Take along an extra jacket or pullover sweater, no matter what the weather.
- Even better, take along a complete change of clothes. Though it's unlikely, an accident could render you completely drenched. You'll obviously be most comfortable in dry clothing.
- A rain suit serves the purpose of protecting you from violent waves and wind. An overall style is your best bet; it will prevent water from seeping through the top of your pants and keep you drier. Experts even recommend wearing a pair of loose shorts over the bottom of your rain suit to prevent accidental tears.
- Again, accessories are essential. Don't leave home without sunglasses to reduce glare on a bright day and prevent decreased visibility.
- A hat is always great to have on hand. Wear it to protect your skin from the sun and to keep you toasty in cold weather.
- If you're going to be doing some work on board, invest in a pair of fingerless sailing gloves. They'll keep your hands from being injured and help you maintain a firm grip as needed. Even if you're not handling the sheets, you may want to stay warm, so don't neglect to bring those gloves with you.
