Not wearing the correct sailing kit can turn a wonderful experience into a rather cold and wet one.

Layering is a must as the weather can change really quickly and temperatures can easily rise or drop. Thermals, base layers, waterproofs and wind cheaters are essential, as are proper sailing shoes.

Accessories such as hats and sunglasses will shield from the wind and sun whilst gloves will protect hands from cuts, scrapes and burns.

And let’s not forget après sailing, when nothing is better than snuggling up in a warm jumper and enjoying a drink on deck.

Sailing jackets

Henri Lloyd Freedom Jacket (£245) is waterproof, windproof and highly breathable. Made of TP2 fabric featuring Bi-Component Coating Technology, this sailing jacket will protect from the elements and keep you warm and dry. The Optivision hood is fleece lined and designed to increase peripheral view, whilst the Henri Lloyd Photo-Luminescent Reflectors (HLPLR) absorb UV rays during the day and they release energy at night for extra safety. The jacket has big pockets for all the items you need to keep within easy reach.

Base layers

Base layers are essential on a boat, when the weather can change so suddenly. They don’t have to be expensive. Helly Hansen do a great Lifa® Stay Dry Technology. This two pack includes a top and leggings for only £50. Gill Women Hydrophobe Top (£49) is a thermal rash vest designed to stretch and to keep you warm and dry.

Drysuits

Particularly good for dinghy sailing, drysuits keep water and wind at bay. Musto Dinghy Drysuit (£399) is made with a breathable three-layer fabric to protect from rain and sprays. The seat and knees are reinforced for durability, and braces and the elasticated back waist are adjustable for maximum comfort. It also has a reflective print for visibility.

Sailing Trousers

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Freedom of movement, dryness and adjustability: sailing trousers are great at keeping out the elements. Essential if you are cruising in the colder and windier seasons. Henri Lloyd Element Trousers (£85) are all about ‘moisture management’ and come with handy pockets.

Jumpers

Pack lightweight jumpers too before setting sail. Fleeces and cotton sweaters are ideal at sea, when the weather can take a sudden turn. Quba’s Gillespie Shawl Neck Fleece (£49), is light but warm and the double layer ribbed cuffs keeps you toastie in the wind.

Shoes

Never take a gamble with shoes. You need high performance footwear to stay dry and to ensure a good grip. If racing is for you, Musto has teamed up with Clarks to create the Musto Dynamic Pro, a lightweight rubber sole shoe with a microsiped tread pattern and AGION® anti-microbial treatment for hygiene (£90). You can’t go wrong with a classic deck shoe, and these Sebago Dockside Ariaprene (£99) pictured above are comfortable, lightweight and have a good grip. It is available in several bright colours, such as pink and light blue.

Accessories

Choose sunglasses that offer UV protection to shield against the harmful effects of the sun. Gill Reflex Sunglasses (£49) are floatable and boast 100% glare free polarised lenses that are specifically designed for use on the water. Always pack a hat. Whether you prefer one with a visor such as a Henri Lloyd Fast Dri Crew Cap (£20) or a warm beanie, like a Henri Lloyd H-Therm Beanie (£15), headwear will keep you warm and protected from the weather. If it is cold out on the water and you are doing a lot of rope work, you’ll want to pack a pair of gloves. Musto Performance Winter Gloves (£35) mimic a wetsuit. They boast double thickness neoprene on the back of the hand and wrist which keeps the hands warm by trapping a thin layer of water next to the skin to be warmed by body heat. The grip on the palm is made with Clarino™ PU fabric for excellent performance.
And where to pack all your sailing gear? Choose a roomy but compact bag or rucksack with wet/dry segregation, such as the lightweight Gill Cargo Bag (£89).

Après sailing

After a day’s hard graft there’s nothing better than changing into something warm, comfortable and why not, chic! A good quality cardigan or jumper will keep the cold out and make you look fabulous. N. Peal Basketweave Long Cashmere Cardigan is not cheap at £695, but thanks to its quality and craftsmanship you’ll be wearing it for years. N. Peal Woven Cashmere Scarf (£109) comes in a variety of different colours to brighten up cold autumn and winter evenings. If the weather is wet and you want something stylish on your feet, Sebago Laney Mid Boots (£149.99) are a classic biker boot that works well with trousers or skirts, are waterproof, have an excellent grip, and the Sebago quality and craftsmanship.