What to wear while sea kayaking in Canada

What to Wear While Sea Kayaking: A Complete Guide to Apparel and Safety Gear in Canada

When it comes to sea kayaking, choosing the right gear is essential for both comfort and safety. What you wear can make or break your experience on the water. Your outfit should reflect key factors like water and air temperature, weather conditions, the time of year, paddling environment, and how far from shore you plan to go. One golden rule: Always dress for the possibility of immersion.

Here on the west coast of Canada, the ocean stays cold year-round, only warming slightly in the summer. That means even in July or August, hypothermia is a real risk if you capsize without the right layers. This guide breaks down the best sea kayaking gear for Canadian waters and covers the safety gear for sea kayaking that’s legally required by Transport Canada.

Immersion Gear for Sea Kayaking

Drysuit

A drysuit is your best bet for staying dry and comfortable in cold-water conditions. It forms a waterproof barrier between you and the elements. But since it doesn’t provide insulation on its own, layering is key. Start with a snug-fitting base layer made of synthetic or Merino wool, followed by a mid-layer if needed. Avoid cotton since it traps moisture and can make you colder.

  • Pros: Keeps you dry, ideal for cold conditions and long-distance paddling where staying dry is essential. Great for safety in case of unexpected capsizes.
  • Cons: More expensive than a wetsuit and requires thoughtful layering to stay warm without overheating. It can also feel bulky to some users.

Wetsuit

A more affordable alternative is a wetsuit. While it allows some water in, the trapped water warms up with your body heat, helping you stay warm. A Farmer John/Jane wetsuit (sleeveless) is a favorite among paddlers because it allows for a better range of motion. Pair it with a rash guard and fleece layer for added insulation. A waterproof paddling jacket overtop completes the setup.

  • Pros: Budget-friendly option that still offers decent thermal protection. Provides flexibility for your upper body, making it easier to paddle.
  • Cons: Doesn’t keep you dry, and not ideal for extremely cold water. Can become uncomfortable when sitting in wet gear for long periods.

Non-Immersion Apparel for Sea Kayaking Canada

On warmer days, when immersion risk is lower (and you've made a careful assessment), a layered clothing system is still important.

Top layers:

  • Base layer (synthetic or wool): Wicks moisture away from the skin and keeps you warm, even when damp.
  • Fleece or insulating mid-layer: Adds warmth on cooler days and can be adjusted based on temperature.
  • Waterproof paddling jacket: Blocks wind and water, critical for staying comfortable in choppy or rainy conditions.
  • Lightweight sun shirt: In summer, a UPF-rated long-sleeve shirt with a hood offers sun protection without overheating.

Bottom layers:

  • Thermal or lightweight base layer: Keeps your legs warm without restricting movement.
  • Dry pants or splash pants: With a wide neoprene waistband to seal out water and prevent seepage.

Footwear

Neoprene booties or paddling shoes are essential sea kayaking gear. They keep your feet warm in cold water and protect you from sharp rocks, slippery boat ramps, oyster shells, and barnacles. Look for soles with good grip and material that dries quickly. High-cut options add ankle protection and warmth.

Hands

In colder conditions, pogies are a game-changer. They attach directly to your paddle shaft, allowing your bare hands to maintain contact while staying protected from wind and water. For especially cold days, you can wear thin gloves underneath. Alternatively, full-finger neoprene gloves provide consistent warmth but slightly reduce your paddle feel. Read our complete guide that helps you choose between kayaking gloves, pogies and mitts!

Headwear

Depending on the season:

  • Summer: A ball cap or wide-brim hat offers shade and keeps the sun off your face.
  • Cooler seasons: A fleece or wool toque insulates well and stays warm when wet.
  • All year: Always carry a backup toque in your dry bag for sudden weather shifts.
  • Rough conditions: A helmet may be necessary for rock gardening, surf launches, or paddling near cliffs or strong currents.

Optional but Useful Sea Kayaking Gear

  • Sprayskirt: Keeps water out of your cockpit. A tight neoprene sprayskirt is best for rough conditions and rolling, while a nylon sprayskirt is easier for beginners to remove.
  • Paddling gloves or glove liners: Useful in transitional weather or under pogies for added warmth.
  • Dry bags: Keep extra clothing, snacks, electronics, and first aid kits safe and dry. Always bring a small one with extra warm layers.

Required Safety Gear for Sea Kayaking in Canada

Transport Canada regulates required safety equipment for all human-powered craft, including sea kayaks. This safety gear for sea kayaking is not optional—it’s the law.

  1. Canadian-approved PFD (Personal Flotation Device)
    • Must be properly fitted and worn at all times. Bright colors improve visibility in case of emergency.
  2. Sound signaling device
    • A pealess whistle is compact, reliable, and should be attached to your PFD for easy access.
  3. Buoyant heaving line (minimum 15 metres)
    • Used to throw to someone in the water or assist in rescue scenarios. Store it within reach.
  4. Manual bilge pump or bailer
    • A hand-operated bilge pump helps you remove water from the cockpit after a capsize or heavy spray. A bailer (for open-cockpit kayaks) can be a simple container.
  5. Navigation equipment
    • For longer trips or coastal travel, a marine compass and waterproof charts are essential. GPS is useful but shouldn’t replace basic tools.
  6. Reboarding device
    • Required only if your kayak’s freeboard is over 0.5 meters. For most sea kayaks, this won’t apply, but a paddle float or rescue stirrup can assist in self-rescue.
  7. Navigation lights (for low light or night use)
    • A 360-degree white light (such as a mast light or headlamp) must be used at night or in fog. Keep it accessible.
  8. First aid kit and signaling devices
    • While not mandatory, carrying a compact first aid kit, a mirror or flares, and a waterproof flashlight is highly recommended.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're exploring BC’s rugged coastlines or paddling across a quiet lake in Ontario, choosing the right sea kayaking gear is essential. Cold water, changing weather, and unpredictable conditions are part of the sea kayaking Canada experience. By dressing for immersion, choosing reliable gear, and carrying the required safety gear for sea kayaking, you’re setting yourself up for a safe and comfortable adventure.

If you're unsure about any specific gear or how to dress for your local paddling conditions, chat with us or consult with certified sea kayaking instructors in your area. Stay dry, stay warm, and paddle smart!

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