Sailors look for shorts that dry fast, stand up to repeated wetting and drying, and have solid seat protection to deal with friction on non-slip decks. We like deep side pockets and secured cargo pockets. Cuts have to be loose enough to avoid binding or impeding movement but snug enough not to snag on deck equipment. Some of us even prefer shorts that look good! Whatever your priorities, read on and select the shorts that meet them.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailing Shoes.

Reviews - Best Shorts for Sailing

NRS Hydroskin 0.5

View Women's Version

Specs

• Material: 0.5mm Neoprene
• Closure: Draw Cord
• Padding: No
• Pockets: None

Features

• 4-Way Stretch Fabric For Maximum Mobility
• Soft ThermalPlush Lining For Added Comfort
• Friction-Free Seams Prevent Chafing
• Water-Repellent Coating Sheds Water And Prevents Evaporative Cooling

BEST BUDGET SHORTS FOR SMALL BOATS

If you’re sailing aggressively in dinghies, small catamarans, or self-bailing boats you’re likely to spend time in the water pretty much every time you sail. If you plan to be wet and you aren’t concerned with pockets, these fleece-lined neoprene shorts are ideal. The lining keeps them comfortable on the skin and the durable water-resistant coating helps water roll off, reducing evaporative cooling and keeping you warmer.

These shorts are an ideal underlayer for colder days and work well as your main shorts for any water sports that require mobility and comfort. They’re designed for paddling but adapt well to sailing in conditions that keep you close to (and sometimes in) the water. They’re also reasonably priced, a useful feature in a versatile water sports short.

View at Backcountry

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Zhik Deckbeater

Specs

• Material: Spandex/Neoprene
• Closure: None
• Padding: No
• Pockets: None

Features

• Specifically Designed For Seated Water Sports
• Ergonomically Designed Padded Seat Panel Stands Up To Non-Skid Decks
• 3D Body Mapped Fit For Ultimate Comfort
• Perforated For Fast Drainage

BEST FOR AGGRESSIVE SAILING

To build these shorts Zhik took all the traditional elements of sailing short design, rolled them into a tidy package and threw it out the window. The Deckbeater shorts look like nothing else on the water, but they also perform like nothing else on the water. The spandex/neoprene combination is aimed specifically at seated water sports, and the heavy-duty 7mm neoprene seat pad puts a lot of protection between your backside and any hard or rough objects it might encounter. They are sleek, form-fitting, and comfortable despite that beefy pad.

On the downside, these shorts may be hot off the water and they certainly aren’t fashionable. If you’re looking for shorts that fit in at the yacht club bar after sailing, these may not fit the bill. If you want to get out on the water and beat your shorts up, they’ll do just fine!

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Gill OS3 Coastal

Specs

• Material: Nylon/Polyester
• Closure: Button/Zip
• Padding: No
• Pockets: 2 Side, 1 Thigh

Features

• Abrasion-Resistant Seat Panel
• Water Resistant Fabric With Taped Seams Keep Water Out
• Comfortable Semi-Elastic Waist
• External Pad Pocket To Add Optional Padding

BEST REMOVABLE PAD SHORT 

Gill’s OS3 line of sailing-specific clothing is designed specifically for offshore sailing, and these shorts fit that mold perfectly. The 2-layer coated fabric, taped seams, and water-repellant coating keep your backside dry even when sitting on a wet deck. The shorts are fully lined for comfort and drain easily if water gets inside. Two large side pockets and a cargo pocket on one thigh handle the storage duties and the abrasion-resistant seat stands up to wear.

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Helly Hansen Hydropower 120

Specs

• Material: Nylon/Polyester
• Closure: Double Button/Zip
• Padding: No
• Pockets: 2 Slant Hip, 2 Zippered Thigh

Features

• Durable Quick-Dry Ripstop Material With Reinforced Seat
• Gusseted For Freedom Of Movement
• Comfortable Semi-Elastic Waist With Velcro Side Adjustments
• D Ring For Secure Attachment Of Tools Or Keys

BEST ALL-AROUND SAILING SHORT

These water-resistant, quick-drying sailing shorts are built for the water, with elastic fabric providing mobility, reinforced high-wear areas providing durability, and zippered side and velcro-sealed thigh pockets providing storage where you need it. They’re cut long for full protection and the fabric is waterproof, windproof, and breathable. The leg is roomy enough for comfort but snug enough to avoid snagging.

If you like to walk off your boat and straight into normal life, you’ll like these shorts: they look as good on the street as they do on deck!

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING SAILING SHORTS

Sailing places unique demands on a pair of shorts. Sailors are often wet. We spend a lot of time sitting, often on wet surfaces. Those surfaces are often highly abrasive: non-slip deck coatings are critical for safety onboard but they abrade fabrics very quickly. There are obstacles on a deck that can get in our way. Who can forget the first time they sat on a cleat? We carry tools and other objects in packets and we need to keep them secure. We need full freedom of mobility but we also can’t have fabric snagging on objects.

Modern sailing shorts are designed to operate and perform within those constraints. Here are some common features to keep in mind.

MATERIALS

Sailing shorts need to be comfortable, they need to dry fast, and they need to have some elasticity to provide freedom of movement. Nylon fabrics are often chosen, often with some Spandex, Lycra, Elastane, or other elastic fabrics woven in to provide stretch.

Some shorts, especially those designed for sailing in small boats where you’re essentially wet all the time, use neoprene or a Spandex/neoprene blend and are closer to wetsuit shorts than to traditional cargo shorts.

Sun protection is also a factor, and many shorts advertise a UPF factor that rates the level of sun protection they provide.

WARMTH AND WATER RESISTANCE

Shorts are mainly used in warm weather sailing, but the weather can change fast and water is often cold even when the air is warm. Water and windproof shorts can keep your butt dry even when sitting on a wet deck and keep spray off your upper legs, which helps keep you comfortable.

Many shorts have durable water repellent coatings that encourage water to bead up and drip off. That also helps keep you warm. If water on your shorts runs off it won’t evaporate, and evaporating water pulls heat from whatever’s near it, a process called evaporative cooling.

Waterproof shorts may be hot and uncomfortable in very warm weather or off the water, so many manufacturers use breathable fabrics to make them more wearable in those conditions.

PROTECT YOUR SEAT

Most sailing-specific shorts incorporate some level of seat protection. 

Reinforced shorts use an extra layer of rugged, abrasion-resistant fabric to protect the shorts from wear from sitting on rough surfaces.

Padded shorts go further and incorporate a physical cushion to prevent impact and abrasion damage to both the shorts and your backside. Some shorts integrate the padding into the shorts, which is convenient but may lead to slow drying and can make them awkward for off-water wear. Others integrate a low-profile pocket that accepts a seat pad, usually sold separately. In most cases, you have to take the shorts off to install the pad.

DESIGN

Sailing shorts typically integrate common design features to enhance on-water performance.

Length is usually above that of a typical short. Longer cuts provide more protection to your thighs and the backs of your legs. Many sailors prefer shorts cut just above the knee, though many women’s models are cut shorter.

Waist adjustments come in multiple forms. Many shorts have belt loops, but some sailors find belts inconvenient, so many shorts also integrate adjustment tabs using velcro or other closure systems. Some use drawstrings. Buttons, often oversized, are the preferred waist closure.

Pockets have to be designed to avoid spilling while seated. Sailing sort pockets are usually on the sides and thighs, not the back. Again, we sit a lot, often on hard, rough, surfaces. 

The cut needs to be loose enough to avoid constraining movement and provide air flow, but not so loose that the shorts easily snag on obstacles.

LEARN MORE

Annapolis Performance Sailing has a good introduction to choosing sailing shorts. Practical Sailor ran field tests on popular sailing shorts, including some of those reviewed here.

SPECS AND FEATURES EXPLAINED

MATERIALS

Nylon is the preferred base material for sailing shorts: it’s light, it’s tough, it dries fast, and it’s comfortable. Some shorts mix nylon with elastic materials like Spandex, Elastane, or Lycra to allow some stretch. Some may also be lined with softer materials, especially around the waist.

Some shorts designed for fill immersion are made of neoprene or a Spandex/Neoprene mix, and tend to look more like wetsuit shorts than conventional street shorts. These may be lined with fleece materials for comfort.

Cotton and other natural materials tend to retain water, dry slowly, and wick heat away from the body, and are not usually used in sailing or other water sports shorts.

POCKETS

Sailing short pockets need to be designed to keep contents secure in a sitting position. Side pockets usually have upward-facing openings and may have zippers. Cargo pockets are usually on thighs and may have velcro or zipper closures.

Back pockets are not generally used on sailing shorts, because of the frequency of sitting on hard decks.

PADDING

Padding on seats may be built-in or may come in the form of a removable pad that slots into a discrete rear pocket. Pads are usually sold separately and must match the shorts. In most cases, the shorts must be removed to insert the pads.

CLOSURE

Buttons, often oversized, are the preferred waist closure for most conventionally styles sailing shorts. They are usually used in combination with a zipper. Neoprene shorts tend to be elastic and often have no closure.

GUSSETS

Gussets are pieces of fabric sewn into a seam to allow it to expand when needed. They are often used to enhance freedom of movement without making the shorts excessively baggy.

The post Best Sailing Shorts of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailing Gloves.

Reviews - Best Watches for Sailing

Optimum Time Series 3 Sailing Timer

Specs

• Water Resistance: To 50 meters/5 ATM
• Battery: Replaceable CR2032
• Display Size: 65mm
• Band: Elastic

Features

• Multiple Specialist Race Timing And Countdown Options
• Luminous Backlight For Use In The Dark
• Can Be Mounted On A Mast Or Boom
• Huge 16mm Digits For Easy Visibility

BEST BUDGET SAILING WATCH

Optimum Time brings you a full-featured sailing watch with an impressive array of features and a remarkably accessible price tag in the Series 3. The “big yellow watch” is well-known and popular, and you can look around almost any club race and spot a number of these mounted on wrists and ready for action! If you don’t want to mount it on your wrist, there’s a bracket for mounting on your mast or boom, and the massive display and audible countdowns make it easily usable from a distance. The face can be rotated 360 degrees to give you a clear view in any mounting situation.

There’s a full range of pre-programmed countdown and count-up sequences also a re-sync feature that allows you to reset to race time if you miss the starting gun. We never do that, of course, but it’s good to know we’re covered if it happens!

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Ronstan Clear Start

Specs

• Water Resistance: 50 meters/5 ATM
• Battery: Replaceable CR2032
• Display Size: 50mm
• Band: Silicone

Features

• Large 13mm Digits Can Be Read At A Glance
• Pre-Programmed Race Start Sequences
• Multi-Line Display Shows Race Time And Real Time
• Durable Fiber-Reinforced Resin Body

BEST VALUE RACING WATCH

Ronstan claims that the Clear Start is “the most popular sailing watch in the world”, and it’s hard to contest that claim. The latest generation of the Clear Start model packs a host of race-specific features into a well-planned interface that gives you fast access to key features and is easy to master. The watch is water and shock resistant and the case and crystal are solid enough to stand up to regular racing. 

The Clear Start provides great value in a race-specific watch, but it is primarily designed for racing, and if you’re a recreational sailor who prefers exploration to competition, it’s probably not the best choice.

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Timex Intelligent Quartz Yacht Racer

Specs

• Water Resistance: 100 meters/10 ATM
• Battery: Replaceable CR2016
• Display Size: 45mm
• Band: Silicon

Features

• Dedicated 4th Hand For Compass Readout
• Air Or Water Temperature Readings In Fahrenheit Or Celsius
• Indiglo Night Light Illuminates Face In Low Light Conditions
• Tide Tracker Counts Down To Next Low Or High Tide

BEST IF YOU DON’T RACE

Not all sailors race and not everyone wants a race timer with a digital display. This offering from Timex delivers a sleek, traditional analog package that will appeal to non-racing sailors. The body is crafted from a solid steel casting and the watch combines durability with elegance. The race-specific timing functions are replaced by more general marine features that all boaters will find useful: an effective compass, a thermometer that will measure air or water temperature, and a tide tracker. It’s an appealing package for the marine enthusiast who isn’t all about competition.

Some reviewers found the multi-dial functions confusing, so you can expect to spend a little time with the owner’s manual to master everything the watch can do. As with any watch offering temperature readings, you’ll have to remove the watch from your wrist to get an accurate reading, as body heat can skew the results.

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Tissot Sailing-Touch

Specs

• Water Resistance: 100 meters/10 ATM
• Battery: Replaceable LR44
• Display Size: 45mm
• Band: Stainless Steel

Features

• Weather Forecasting Function Tracks 6-Hour Barometric Pressure Trends
• Regatta Mode For Start Countdown And Time Synchronization
• Integrated Compass and Speed Tracking
• Tide Tracker Gives Current Tide State, Ebb Or Flow, And Time To High Or Low

BEST ANALOG DIAL SAILING WATCH

If you prefer the look of a traditional chronograph but want a full range of sailing-specific functions, The Tissot Sailing-Touch will grab your attention. This Swiss manufacturer has a long history of making practical, elegant sailing watches, and the Sailing-Touch continues that tradition. You get start countdown and time synchronization functions for racing, a functional compass for navigation, and tide and weather tracking to keep tabs on sailing conditions. The whole package comes wrapped in a stylish, durable stainless steel case and combines the appeal of the traditional watch dial with fully modern functionality.

The Tissot Sailing-Touch delivers many of the features and much of the visual appeal that you’ll find in sailing watches that cost many thousands of dollars and brings them to market at a reasonable price. It’s a top pick for sailing enthusiasts looking for an affordable high-quality analog-dial sailing watch.

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Garmin Quatix 6

Specs

• Water Resistance: 100 meters/10 ATM
• Battery: Replaceable LR44
• Display Size: 30.5mm
• Band: Silicon

Features

• Multifunction Touch Screen
• Bluetooth Connectivity To Your Boat’s Garmin Navigation Instruments
• Activity Profiles And Performance Metrics For Multiple Water Sports
• Full GPS Navigation Capability
• Garmin SailAssist Suite Of Sailing-Specific Functions

BEST GPS SAILING WATCH

They call it a smartwatch for a reason. Lots of sailing watches will give you a race countdown. The Quatix 6 will show you a virtual starting line, your distance from the starting line, your position relative to the starting line, your speed, wind direction and speed, and your tack angle. Other sailing watches will give you tide and barometric pressure data; the Quatix 6 gives you a continuous link to your boat’s entire navigation suite (check for compatibility). You get GPS navigation and tracking functions, a 3-axis electronic compass, a wrist-based heart rate monitor and much more. It also tells the time!

The only real downside here is that the sheer number of functions and options can be overwhelming: if you like to keep it simple, this may not be the watch for you. If you’re willing to spend some time working out what it can do and how to get it done, you’ll have one of the most effective wrist-based information systems on the market!

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A SAILING WATCH

All sailing watches are water-resistant. They usually offer a visual and often audible countdown designed to help racers time their approach to a starting line and set an ideal starting position. That’s just the beginning. Many modern sailing watches can provide barometric pressure, tide data, compass bearing and much more. Some can double up as a GPS and take on advanced navigation functions. You can fit a lot of power on your wrist, and you don’t need to spend a small fortune to get it!

DO YOU RACE?

What most manufacturers call a “sailing watch” might be better described as a “regatta watch”: the niche is largely defined by race-specific functions. If you race or you’re thinking about racing and learning how race starts work, these functions are important. If you don’t race and don’t intend to race, you’ll be looking for a solid water-resistant watch that offers functions like barometric pressure readings, tide status, and even the navigation capacity offered by wrist-based GPS units.   

GPS FUNCTIONS

If your sailing is more about journeys and exploration than competition, you may want to look for a GPS-equipped “smartwatch”. Many sport-oriented smartwatches also offer race-specific functions. If you’re interested in this type, check out this guide to choosing a GPS sports watch.  

STYLE MATTERS

Most of us don’t wear a sailing watch exclusively for sailing. You may not wear it every day, but it’s likely to go on your wrist well before a race or an expedition and stay on it for a while after. If you have specific preferences in watch styling, take those into consideration! Some people like digital watches, some like analog, some prefer stainless steel bands, others silicon. Find a watch you like to look at, and wearing it will make you happier!

SPECS AND FEATURES EXPLAINED

WATER RESISTANCE

Manufacturers specify water resistance in different terms. Some state a specific depth of water, some cite pressure in ATM, which is the pressure equivalent to atmospheric weight. 10 ATM is 10x the weight and pressure of the atmosphere. One ATM is roughly equivalent to ten meters according to the depth rating criteria. 

Note that a “50 Meters” rating does not mean that a watch is safe to use at that depth. Activity that moves the watch through the water greatly increases the pressure, especially if it involves significant speed, like a high dive into the water. In general, a 50m or 5 ATM rating is considered safe from splashing or rain, while 100m or 10 ATM is preferred for swimming, snorkeling, and other sports requiring sustained immersion. Remember that impacts can compromise water resistance, even if there’s no visible damage!

For more information, check out this comprehensive guide to water resistance ratings.

RACE TIMING FUNCTIONS

Sailboat racing is unique in that much of what goes into winning happens before the race starts. Getting to the starting line at the right time and position relative to the wind, the course, and the other contestants often determines who wins and loses. If you’re at the helm you need to keep an eye on the race countdown and your position on the water at the same time, which is why the sailing watch and its race-specific features are so important to racers. Race starts and the rules that govern them are complicated and take some time to master. Sailing World offers this advice on sailboat racing rules at the starting line and Yachts & Yachting contributes this advice on how to start faster.  

BATTERIES

Most watches use a replaceable battery. The batteries typically last a long time, and it’s easy to forget they are there until they finally run out! If watch batteries aren’t readily available in your area, consider ordering extras with the purchase of your watch.

The post Best Sailing Watches of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailing Hats.

Reviews - The Best Gloves for Sailing

WindRider Pro

Specs

• Finger: Choose ¾ or Full
• Palm Material: Amara Synthetic Leather
• Mesh Inserts: Back
• Wrist: Short, Inside Closure

Features

• Designed For All Water Sports
• High-Grip Padded Amara Palm Adds Comfort
• Double-Stitched Seams For Durability
• Choice Of Full or ¾ Finger Models

BEST BUDGET GLOVE

If you’re looking for a basic all-around water sports glove that protects your hands, keeps your fingertips free for detail work, and generally does what a sailing glove needs to do without costing an arm and a leg (or even just a few fingers), this is a great choice. These versatile gloves are made of fast-drying elastic material and sewn with a mesh back for ventilation. 

While reviews of these gloves are overwhelmingly positive, a small number of reviewers do complain about durability issues and incorrect sizing. These are common issues with most relatively low-cost imported products, and if you want to be sure to avoid those downfalls, then you might want to look to higher-end models!

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Gill Champion Short Finger

Specs

• Finger: 3 Finger
• Palm Material: Dura-Grip Synthetic Leather
• Mesh Inserts: None
• Wrist: Wide Neoprene Wrist Band

Features

• UV 50+ 4-Way Stretch Back For Comfort And Sun Protection
• Wraparound Palm Eliminates Uncomfortable Side Seams
• Offset Finger Seams Remove Pressure Points

BEST ALL-AROUND 3 FINGER GLOVE

The 3-finger glove is a compromise. The tips of the thumb and first finger are left open for knot tying and other tasks requiring fine dexterity while the other 3 fingers are fully closed in for warmth. It’s a proven, popular design, and Gill approaches it with the thorough design and top-level execution that we expect from a company that made its reputation delivering top quality sailing-specific gear. They are a favorite choice for serious racers and casual sailors alike, and they’ve earned their popularity!

These durable, comfortable gloves offer a long list of sailing-specific features, are available at an attractive price point, and will be a top choice for sailors looking for affordable quality equipment.

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Harken Sport ¾ Finger

Specs

• Finger: 3/4
• Palm Material: Synthetic Leather
• Mesh Inserts: Base Of Fingers
• Wrist: Short, Inside Closure

Features

• Sticky, Abrasion-Resistant Palm And Finger Wraps For Superior Grip
• Double Thickness Palm For Durability
• Molded Rubber Guard Strips Protect Backs Of Hands

BEST ALL-AROUND SHORT FINGER GLOVE

Most sailors prefer short-finger gloves for warm weather sailing, and the Harken Sport Reflex is a perennial favorite. A double layer of Harken’s proprietary Black Magic leather compound keeps the palms durable, sticky, and padded for superior line handling in wet conditions. Mesh vents at the base of the fingers keep the hands ventilated and cool in hot weather, and molded rubber guard strips protect the back of the hand and the wrist.

These will probably not be your first choice for cold-weather sailing, but if you’re looking for warm-weather hand protection, they’re a solid choice!

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Dakine Full Finger

Specs

• Finger: Full
• Palm Material: Neoprene
• Mesh Inserts: Back, Finger Backs
• Wrist: Outside Velcro Closure

Features

• Compression Molded Neoprene Back Panel For Durability
• Breathable Mesh For Comfort
• Non-Slip Palm Material

BEST FULL FINGER GLOVES

Some sailors still prefer a full-finger glove for maximum protection, and some prefer to keep a full-fingered pair in reserve for times when coverage is more important than dexterity. Dakine manufactures these gloves with sailors, windsurfers, and kitesurfers in mind; they’re made for water and designed to drain easily and dry fast. Dakine prefers neoprene to the usual synthetic leather and applies a generous range of mesh for ventilation. The palms are padded and sticky and the wrist gives a tight seal.

Unlike most sailing gloves, the Dakine has the wrist closure tab on the back of the wrist, where it may interfere with the operation of a sailing watch. If you’re racing and time management is critical, be aware of this feature!

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Gill S/F Pro 3 Finger

Specs

• Finger: 3 Finger
• Palm Material: Synthetic Leather
• Mesh Inserts: None
• Wrist: Short, Inside Closure

Features

• Pre-Curved Fingers With Seamless Construction
• Wrapped Palm Design Prevents Rope Burn
• Thumb And Index Finger Balance Protection With Durability

BEST TOP SHELF SAILING GLOVES

Some people carry their sports to the most extreme level, lay the highest possible level of stress on their gear, and need the finest products available. Some people just like to have really nice stuff. If you’re in one of those categories and looking for a pair of sailing gloves, the Gill Professional is going to leave you with happy hands and the security of knowing that you have the best gloves money can buy. 

The seams and stitching on this glove may seem oddly placed, but everything is by design: those are “wrap-around” palm and finger protection materials stitched in a pattern that keeps seams away from any location where they might cause chafing or leave your hands exposed to unnecessary stress. Even the wrist closure is designed to avoid interfering with the controls of your high-tech racing watch!

There’s a long list of features and advantages for this one, but it comes down to a pretty simple conclusion. If you want the best and don’t mind paying a little extra for it, buy it.

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING SAILING GLOVES

Your gloves are there to protect your hands, and to keep them warm if you’re sailing in cold conditions. Gloves can also get in the way, especially if you’re tying or untying knots or performing other tasks requiring manual dexterity. To protect the hands while still retaining full use of the fingers we have a choice of gloves, from full-fingered to three-fingered to short-fingered, each leaving a bit more finger ready to work. 

What you need, and the type of material and features you select, will depend on your role in the crew and what you normally do onboard. If you aren’t sure what that’s going to be, many general-purpose gloves will do just fine. Don’t worry too much about getting it wrong: hand protection is always better than no hand protection! Read through all the things we think you should consider before buying your first (or tenth) pair of sailing  gloves and then make your decision and get back to sea!

PURPOSE

All sailing gloves are designed for sailing, obviously, but they still serve different purposes. If you sail in warm weather, you’ll be primarily interested in protecting your hands from rope burn. If you sometimes sail in cold weather, you’ll want more coverage for warmth. If you regularly tie and untie knots, you’ll want to look at gloves that leave fingertips open (3-finger or ¾ / short style). If you’re at the helm in a race setting, you’ll want to make sure that your gloves don’t interfere with access to your watch or the controls of your watch.

Assess the conditions you’ll sail in and your role in the crew, and choose your gloves accordingly!

MATERIALS

Like everything you wear on a boat, your gloves will be wet a lot. Gloves also tend to be padded for protection, and padding can interfere with drying and leave you with damp, smelly gloves that deteriorate fast. Specialist sailing gloves should be designed to dry fast and handle repeated wetting and drying!

LEARN MORE

Annapolis Performance Sailing has a good guide to choosing sailing gloves. Whitecaps Marine offers advice on glove materials and choosing gloves to fit your style of sailing.

SPECS AND FEATURES EXPLAINED

FINGERS

Sailing gloves come in three basic configurations.

¾ or short finger gloves cover the hand and the base of the fingers but leave all fingertips open for maximum dexterity. They are favored by warm-weather sailors and those whose main need is palm protection.

3 finger gloves leave the tips of the thumb and first fingers open but cover the other 3 fingers completely. They provide more warmth and protection while still preserving dexterity in the thumb and first finger.

Full finger gloves cover the fingers completely, delivering maximum protection and warmth but sacrificing dexterity.

Some high end gloves use “pre-curved” fingers with extra padding designed to combine protection with flexibility.

PALM MATERIALS

The palm is the most critical part of a sailing glove. Palms need to be sticky enough to give good grip on wet lines, padded enough to protect the hands from rope burns and impact, and durable enough to survive heavy friction. 

Most manufacturers use synthetic leather compounds for their palms, often in double thickness. Some also wrap the palm pad around the edge of the hand, because many sailors run lines over the edges of their hands.

MESH INSERTS

Mesh inserts are placed in low-friction areas to preserve durability while allowing ventilation. They are mainly used in products intended for warm-weather sailing.

THE WRIST

Users are sometimes surprised to find velcro closures on the inside of the wrist on sailing gloves, while most sport gloves have them on the back or outside of the wrist. This is to keep the closure from interfering with the visibility or controls of watches or wrist-mounted GPS units, which can be critically important in racing. For the same reason, many sailing gloves have a relatively short wrist and some use a cutout on the back of the wrist to allow space for a watch.

THE BACK

The back is arguably the least important part of a sailing glove, but it needs to stretch easily to assure free movement. Some manufacturers use hard rubber ridges for added protection on the backs of the hands.

The post Best Sailing Gloves of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailing Shoes.

Reviews - The Best Jackets for Sailing

Helly Hansen Crew

View Women's Version

Specs

• Pockets: 2 Front, 1 Chest
• Shell: Polyester
• Hood: No
• Lining: Polartec Fleece

Features

• Waterproof, Windproof, and Breathable
• Fleece-Lined Collar And Handwarmer Pockets
• One-Hand Adjustable Waist
• Men's & Women’s Versions Available

BEST LIGHTWEIGHT COASTAL JACKET

This coastal sailing jacket delivers waterproof, windproof, breathable protection is a stylish package that fits in just as well off the water as on it. Use it alone in moderate conditions or as a mid-layer under an outer shell for more aggressive weather! The relatively snug cut allows the jacket to move with you and keeps it compact enough to wear under a shell if needed. This industry-standard item earned its popularity and is an automatic choice for any list of sailing jackets.

Reviews of the Helly Hansen Crew Jacket are overwhelmingly positive, but some reviewers do complain that the jackets run smaller than the rated size. The jacket is designed to be relatively snug and some buyers may simply be ordering the wrong size, but if you’re ordering online and prefer a loose jacket you should be aware of this and consider sizing up!

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GILL OS2

View Women's Version

Specs

• Pockets: 2 Front Cargo, 2 Zippered Chest
• Shell: Seam-Taped Nylon
• Hood: Yes
• Lining: Polyester Fleece

Features

• High-Cut Thermal Collar
• Available In Men’s And Women’s Models
• Fully Lined High-Vis Adjustable Hood
• Adjustable Cuffs With Inner Watertight Seals

BEST OFFSHORE JACKET

Gill is a company built on sailing-specific gear and all of their experience with open-water protection is visible in the OS2, their flagship offshore sailing jacket. This one is made for the rough stuff: it’s cut long in the waist and sleeves to keep you dry even if you’re reaching up, and there’s a host of features, from the lined high-visibility hood to the internal seals on the wrists, designed specifically to keep sailors warm and dry in the worst conditions. Gill has summoned every material and design feature available to produce a jacket that’s absolutely waterproof, windproof, and breathable.

It’s hard to find much to criticize in this one, but some users do find that the high-cut collar, designed to protect the neck, is too high for them and chafes the chin, something to keep in mind if you have a short neck!

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Navis Marine

Specs

• Pockets: 2 Front, 1 Inner
• Shell: Nylon
• Hood: Yes
• Lining: Polyester Fleece

Features

• Jacket/Pants Combination For Foul Weather Protection
• Fleece-Lined Hand Warmer Pockets
• Inner Zipper Pocket, Front Pockets With Storm Flaps
• Fluorescent Hood And Reflective Taping For Visibility

BEST FOUL-WEATHER FULL PROTECTION

Sometimes weather can be unfriendly, and sometimes it can be downright hostile. When wind and rain take over, break out the Navis Marine Coastal Jacket and Bib Pants combination. This set gives near-complete coverage and full protection against the elements, whether you’re sailing in a storm or working the foredeck in heavy seas! There’s a sophisticated 3-layer fabric design to assure waterproof but breathable performance and abrasion-resistant Cordura patches to reduce wear in key areas. A fluorescent hood and multiple reflectors keep you visible in a worst-case scenario!

Remember that this combination is mainly designed for protection from wind and water, and doesn’t have much insulation. In cold weather you’ll want to layer up underneath, so you’ll want a size large enough to accommodate those layers if you’re looking at sailing in cold conditions.

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GILL Tournament

Specs

• Pockets: 2 Zippered Chest, 2 Cargo
• Shell: Coated Nylon
• Hood: Yes
• Lining: Polyester Fleece

Features

• Vortex Hood Technology Vents Air Through Collar In High Winds
• Adjustable Cuffs With Watertight Inner Seals
• Multilayer Design For Absolutely Waterproof Warmth
• High Cut Thermal Collar

BEST FOR COLD WEATHER

This one is about as far as you can get from sunny days and swimwear! For the worst possible conditions, when cold meets rain, wind, and spray in a combination that goes beyond discomfort and reaches potentially dangerous levels, we go back to Gill Marine for one of the best cold-weather sailing jackets you can buy at any price. The Insulated Tournament takes all of Gill’s offshore sailing tricks and combines them with upgraded insulation to produce a jacket that’s completely waterproof, windproof, and breathable, offers exceptional coverage, and is also seriously warm. There’s a long catalog of features on offer, notably the vortex hood, which vents air out through neck ports if you’re facing into a strong wind.

If you’re looking for a downside to this one, good luck. We couldn’t find one, except that if you aren’t going to sea in truly horrible conditions it’s probably more protection than you need. If you are, or if you want a sailing jacket that doubles up as maximum-protection wet winter gear, this is your jacket!

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Kokatat Hydrus 3L Stoke

Specs

• Pockets: Zippered Chest
• Shell: Polyurethane-Coated Nylon
• Hood: No
• Lining: Polyester

Features

• Latex Wrist And Neck Gaiters Keep Water Out
• Triple Layer Waterproof, Breathable Fabric
• Body-Hugging Cut For Range Of Motion

BEST DRY TOP/DINGHY SAILING TOP

Is that a sailing jacket at all? Some purists might say it’s not, but if you’re sailing small self-bailing dinghies or catamarans and pushing yourself to the limit, you’re likely to end up in the water at some point and this kayak-style dry top is a great choice for protection. Like most paddling gear, it’s cut close to the body to allow fast, athletic movements and the neck and sleeve seals keep water out. The waist won’t seal as tight as it would in a skirted kayak, but this will still keep you drier and warmer than anything short of a full drysuit.

As with most dry tops, there’s no hood, so you’ll need head protection if you’re out in really bad conditions. Pocket space is also limited. This is a good choice for aggressive day sailing in small boats in rough conditions, but it’s not for offshore sailing!

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A SAILING JACKET

Sailing jackets are usually classified by types of sailing. Gear designed for “coastal’ conditions tends to be lighter and gives less coverage, while “offshore” gear is designed for colder, wetter, rougher conditions. Those distinctions aren’t absolute. If your sailing is coastal but you often sail in cold, windy, or rainy weather, you’re probably better off with gear labeled “offshore”! Clothing marketed for “dinghy” sailing is aimed at sailors in small boats requiring fast, athletic movements and a high probability of total immersion, which is a polite way of saying you fall in the water a lot. True “foul weather” gear is for maximum coverage in conditions that are truly foul. Most of us don’t seek those conditions out, but sometimes they find us, and when they do we have to be ready!

DESIGN

Sailing places unusual demands on outerwear, especially in bad weather. Sailors are exposed not only to rain but to spray from every direction, including from below. High winds are expected, and the word “windproof” carries higher expectations in sailing than it would in a conventional windbreaker. Sailing is an active sport and we work hard, so sweat inside a jacket is a major consideration, and the ability to move water from inside away from the skin is as important as the ability to keep water from outside away from the skin.

Foul-weather gear has evolved over centuries to meet these constraints, and modern manufacturers are combining the lessons of sailing history with modern materials and design to build products that deliver effective combinations of low weight, extreme protection, and high durability. Sailing jackets have long been cut with extra long sleeves, long waists, and high collars, to provide protection even when reaching overhead at full extension. Hoods are a high priority and designers go to great lengths to provide head protection while retaining visibility. Multilayered designs combine waterproof outer layers with inner layers that wick moisture away from the skin.

The number of different design options and the language manufacturers use to describe their designs can be daunting, but we have more and better options available today than sailors ever have before.

TYPES OF JACKETS

Sailing jackets are typically broken down into three categories, by intended use.

Coastal or Inshore jackets are intended for near-shore use and day sailing in generally moderate conditions. Coastal jackets are less robust and may not have hoods; they are also usually designed with a bit more style and an eye toward off-water wear as well as sailing use.

Offshore jackets are designed for multi-day open water sailing in harsh conditions. They are heavily built, often bulky and long, and have an array of protective features designed to keep the wearer warm and dry.

Dinghy sailing outerwear is designed for use on small boats where fast, athletic movement is a priority and the wearer is likely to end up in the water on any given sailing day.

These are general categories and there’s some crossover: if you’re sailing for a day near the coast in cold, wet weather and rough seas you’ll probably still want a jacket designated for “offshore” use!

Some manufacturers and sellers add other classifications and you may see gear described in other ways, but the categories above remain the simplest way to classify sailing jackets.

LEARN MORE

Annapolis Performance Sailing and West Marine offer good discussions of foul weather gear, including jackets.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

MATERIALS

Most sailing jackets use nylon or similar fabrics for the outer shell, which needs to be strong and waterproof. The outer shell is often coated to enhance its waterproof qualities, and seams are usually taped. Liners are typically polyester fleece, often using materials designed to move water away from the skin. Different manufacturers use different names for their proprietary variants on these basic materials but the differences are generally small, at least among the reputable brands.

POCKETS

Pockets are useful to have: there are always tools, snacks, or other small items we want to keep easily accessible but secure. Many sailing jackets have zippered inner pockets for protected storage of a wallet, phone, or documents. Outside pockets often include zippered chest pockets and deep lower pockets with secure velcro closures, often with fleece-lined hand warmer pockets behind them. You know what you carry, so assess your pocket needs accordingly!

HOODS

A hood is important for keeping wind, spray, and rain away from your head, but you’ll also want one that doesn’t constrain your peripheral vision too much. Protection vs visibility is always a compromise, but some manufacturers have adjustable hood closures that let you change the balance according to prevailing conditions. Most sailing jacket hoods can be stowed in a collar pocket to keep them out of the way when not in use, and most are in bright colors, often with reflective tape, for maximum visibility if you ever end up in the water!

The post Best Sailing Jackets of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

What kind of eye protection do sailors need? Look for wraparound styles that protect against glare from the sides and from below. Polarized lenses with full UV protection are preferred. Sailing glasses should be impact resistant and have non-slip pads on the nose to keep them in place. Floating glasses have the advantage, especially for aggressive small-boat sailors who often end up in the water, and if you don’t have them (or even if you do) you’ll want to add a retaining strap with flotation. Sunglasses are a personal choice and you’ll want to choose a pair that suits your personal style, but these top picks make a good starting point for anyone looking for sail-specific eye protection!

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailing Hats.

Reviews - The Best Sunglasses for Sailing

SeaSpecs Classic Extreme

Specs

• Lens Material: Polycarbonate
• Polarized: Yes
• UVA/UVB Protection: Yes
• Floating: Yes

Features

• Integrated Strap
• Face-Hugging Design Keeps Water Out
• Designed For Active Water Sports

BEST FOR: AGGRESSIVE SAILING

Half sunglass, half goggle, SeaSpecs will be your eyewear of choice if your style of sailing has you out in a trapeze blasting a catamaran across a choppy beam reach. Designed for surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing and other sports that have you in the water as much as on it, they feature a built-in retaining strap designed to keep them on your head even when things get wetter than expected! If they do come off they will float for easier recovery, but they’re affordable enough that losing a pair isn’t the end of the world. The accessible price also makes them a great choice for a spare pair of glasses to keep in the boat for backup use or if a friend needs a pair.

Reviews of the SeaSpecs are generally very positive, but a few users have reported issues with lenses popping out. On the other hand, with SeaSpecs priced at only a small fraction of what some of the higher-end glasses cost, a spare pair is a reasonable investment!

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Bollé Python

Specs

• Lens Material: Coated Polycarbonate
• Polarized: Yes
• UVA/UVB Protection: Yes
• Floating: No

Features

• Anti-Slip Nosepiece And Temples Keep The Glasses On Your Face
• 14% Light Transmission - Made For Bright Conditions
• Wraparound Design For Wide Field Of Vision

BEST FOR: STREET-TO-SAIL USE

If you’re looking for a pair of sunglasses that are as comfortable on the street as they are on deck, check these out. Bollé is known for blending serious sporting credibility with appealing style, and the Python is right in line with that reputation. The Python gets high marks for quality optics, a wide field of vision, non-slip nosepieces and temple linings, and coated lenses that resist scratching, impact, wetting, and fog. These glasses cut a lot of light, and are best used in very bright conditions: if you like wearing sunglasses at night, use a different pair!

On the downside, they don’t float, so make sure you have a retaining strap that does! A small minority of users report issues with the coating peeling off. Some fakes are reportedly circulating, so be sure to buy from a reputable source.

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COSTA Brine

Specs

• Material: Glass
• Polarized: Yes
• UVA/UVB Protection: Yes
• Floating: No

Features

• Lightweight Glass Lenses Provide Maximum Clarity
• Cuts 99% Of Visible Glare
• Environmentally Sensitive BioResin Frames

BEST FOR: LENS CLARITY

Glass lenses provide greater clarity than any other material, but most manufacturers shy away from them because they are usually heavier and bulkier than polycarbonate. Costa claims that their unique technology allows them to produce glass lenses that are 20% thinner and 22% lighter than those of any competitor, allowing them to maximize clarity without excessive weight and bulk. The Brine was designed for saltwater fishing but is highly adaptable to sailing, particularly if a clear view of the water is a high priority!

The glass lenses do leave these too heavy to float, so you’ll need a floating retaining strap. They’re also on the pricey side, but the quality is proportional to the price!

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Maui Jim World Cup

Specs

• Lens Material: Glass
• Polarized: Yes
• UVA/UVB Protection: Yes
• Floating: No

Features

• Waterproof And Oil-Resistant Coating
• Added Contrast For Fog And Overcast Skies
• Anti-Corrosion Spring Hinges
• Embedded Nose Pads

BEST FOR: VARIABLE LIGHT CONDITIONS

These are high-end sunglasses in every sense: Maui Jim has a great reputation among the saltwater set and the World Cup is one of their leading offerings. This version offers a neutral grey tint with a hint of bronze that combines exceptional bright-light performance with added contrast and superb color rendition in cloudy or foggy conditions, making it a great choice when you’re not sure what the weather will dish out! The manufacturer claims that “patented PolarizedPlus2 lens technology wipes out 99.9% of glare, blocks 100% of harmful UV and boosts color”, and a small army of satisfied customers backs up their claim!

As with most glass-lens sunglasses, these will not float, so be sure your retaining strap does!

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Gill Classic

Specs

• Lens Material: Coated Polycarbonate
• Polarized: Yes
• UVA/UVB Protection: Yes
• Floating: Yes

Features

• Hydrophobic And Oleophobic Coatings
• Lenses Exceed EN (European Standards Organization) Safety Standards
• Total UV Protection: UVA, UVB, And UVC

BEST FOR: ALL-AROUND VALUE

No list of sailing sunglasses would be complete without an entry from Gill: the company was founded by sailors, and while they are popular across the water sports spectrum, they are designed first and foremost for sailing. As you’d expect from sailing-specific eyewear these check all the usual boxes, and they get particular praise for a hydrophobic exterior coating that sheds water and salt residue and an oleophobic inner coating that resists fingerprints, sunscreen, and skin oils. The high-grade optics slash glare and reduce eye fatigue. They even look good, at least to our sense of style!

The downside? We’re still looking for one!

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BONUS PRODUCTS

TORTUGA STRAPS FLOATZ

Any sunglasses you use on the water need a retaining strap, and even if your glasses float, you’ll want to add flotation to keep them on top of the water and visible. Tortuga Straps makes a high quality floating strap that consistently gets rave reviews!

CROAKIES FLOAT KIT

If you already have a retaining strap you like, these bright yellow floats will add flotation and keep your fallen shades visible in the water! These are worth considering if you often lose glasses, or if you use an expensive pair of shades that you really don’t want to lose.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING SUNGLASSES FOR SAILING

DESIGN

Any sunglasses are better than no sunglasses, but if you’re going to be spending much time on the water you will want a pair that is specifically designed for water sports. Look for a wrap-around design that gives you a broad field of vision and protects your eyes against glare from the sides and reflected light from below. You want glasses that hug your head and have non-slip nose and temple contact points: you need your glasses to stay on your head when you’re moving quickly and exposed to wind and water. They should be comfortable: you’ll be wearing them for hours at a time.

MATERIALS

Metal frames corrode quickly when exposed to salt water. Most makers of water sports glasses use corrosion-resistant materials with hardware designed to resist salt exposure.

Many entry-level glasses use acrylic lenses, which are inexpensive but easily broken and scratched, and prone to distortion. Polycarbonate lenses can be made to much higher standards, and many manufacturers have proprietary polycarbonate blends and manufacturing techniques. Glass provides the highest optical quality, at the expense of added weight and bulk.

PROTECTION

You wear sunglasses for protection from the sun, and that’s the primary consideration. You want polarized lenses with the highest possible degree of UV protection. Remember that UV-protective coatings are colorless, so a dark tint doesn’t necessarily translate to better protection! For extra UV protection, consider wearing a sailing hat, as well.

LEARN MORE

If you’d like to know more about sailing-specific sunglasses and how to choose them, try these detailed buyer’s guides from West Marine and Sail & Leisure.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

UV PROTECTION

Ultraviolet light is invisible to the naked eye but can do serious damage to the skin and eyes. There are three wavelengths of light classified as Ultraviolet: UVAm UVB, and UVC. UVC has the shortest wavelength and most UVC light is absorbed by the atmosphere, but full UVA and UVB protection is a must for serious water sports eye protection. Remember that the tint on sunglasses has nothing to do with UV protection, and even dark-tinted glasses may be inadequate. Look for a specific UV protection rating!

If you want to know more about UV rays, their effects, and how to protect against them, this review from the World Health Organization will tell you all you need to know!

LENS COATINGS

Manufacturers use a variety of coatings to keep lenses clean and clear:

• Hydrophobic Coatings repel water and prevent water stains and salt residue from forming on lenses. They are often used on the outer surface of a lens.
• Oleophobic Coatings repel oils and prevent fingerprints and stains from sunscreen and skin oils. They are often used on inner lens surfaces.

POLARIZATION

Light reflecting off a flat surface can produce intense glare and is “polarized” into a horizontal plane. Polarizing lenses are treated with a special filter that allows only vertical waves to pass, cutting out that reflected glare. Reflected light is a major presence in marine environments, and polarizing lenses are a must! One downside of polarizing lenses is that you may be unable to read LCD screens and some instrument panels.

This article from the American Academy of Ophthalmology explains polarized light and how to protect against it in detail!

The post Best Sailing Sunglasses of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailing Shoes.

Reviews - The Best Hats for Sailing

Gill Marine Technical

Specs

• Material: 100% Nylon
• Size: Medium, Large
• UPF: 50+
• Brim: Wide, Size Not Specified
• Chin Strap: Removable, Adjustable

Features

• Designed For Sailing
• Wicking Inner Band
• Stiffened Brim

BEST BUDGET HAT

If you’re looking for a functional hat that delivers the basic needs at an accessible price, the Gill Sailing Sun Hat will be your top choice. It’s made from a light, water-repellent, quick-drying material, the brim is wide and stiff, the cord is fully adjustable and removable, an integrated absorbent band controls sweat, and if it falls in the water, it floats. All that at an accessible price adds up to a great deal! Gill manufactures sailing-specific products that have a reputation for no-nonsense quality and competitive pricing, and that’s what this hat delivers.

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Outdoor Research Sun Runner

Specs

• Material: Nylon
• Size: Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large
• UPF: 50
• Brim: 2.5” Bill
• Chin Strap: Cord On Removable Cape

Features

• Removable Cape For Neck And Face Protection
• Inner Headband Wicks Away Moisture
• Adjustable Back Band And Cinch Cord
• Mesh Panels For Breathability

BEST CAP

On the street, it’s an ordinary cap. Get to the water and add the removable cape, and the Sun Runner delivers full 50 UPF protection to your neck and the sides of your face. It’s two hats in one! It’s also breathable, packable, and adjustable, with a cinch cord on the cape to keep it securely in place even when the wind is up. There’s an inner headband to keep sweat out of your eyes, the cape attachment is easy and secure, and the hat gets consistently great reviews from users.

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Sunday Afternoons Adventure

Specs

• Material: Nylon/Polyester
• Size: Medium, Large
• UPF: 50
• Brim: 4 in. (front) / 7.5 in. (back)
• Chin Strap: Adjustable

Features

• Mesh Panels For Ventilation
• Internal Headband Controls Moisture
• Rear Sizing Strap For Custom Fit
• Foam-Filled Brim Keeps Hat Afloat

BEST FOR SUN 

This hat’s wide 4-inch front brim and extended 7.5-inch rear cape make it instantly recognizable. They also provide unparalleled sun protection, with the brim shading the face and the cape completely covering the neck. The Adventure Hat ticks all the basic boxes: it floats, it dries fast, its inner headband controls sweat, the cord anchors the hat securely to your head. The extra sun protection is a bonus, and if sun is your concern, this is your hat.

Not everyone likes the style, and the word “dorky” appears repeatedly in the user reviews. Function still trumps form, and those same reviews consistently carry five stars!

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Outdoor Research Seattle

Specs

• Material: Gore-Tex, Nylon
• Size: Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large
• UPF: 50+
• Brim: 2.25" to 3.125", Depending On Size
• Chin Strap: Adjustable Cord

Features

• Seam Sealed, Guaranteed To Keep You Dry
• Internal Adjustment For Custom Fit
• Fleece Lining For Warmth
• Velcro Closures To Raise Brim On Sides

BEST FOR COLD AND RAIN

We’ve been focusing on sun protection, but in some places, sailors are more likely to be dealing with rain and cold. One of those places is Seattle, and the Seattle Sombrero carries that name for a reason. It’s made to keep your head dry in the rain, and it has earned the coveted “Guaranteed to Keep You Dry” rating from Gore-Tex. A fleece lining keeps your head warm, and internal adjustments and an adjustable neck cord keep the hat snug. If the sun shines, it still carries a 50 UPF rating! If you sail in places where cold and rain are your main concerns, this will be your top pick.

Some reviewers say that the hat is too hot for warm-weather use, but that’s a bit like complaining that your wool sweater is too hot for summer. It’s a Seattle Sombrero, not a Miami Sombrero!

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Tilley LTM6 Airflo

Specs

• Material: Nylon
• Size: Ten Sizes
• UPF: 50
• Brim: 3.25"
• Chin Strap: Adjustable, Wraps Under Chin And Back Of Head For High Winds

Features

• Will Not Wear Out, Shrink, Or Fall Apart - Guaranteed For Life
• Hidden Pocket
• Closed Cell Foam Keeps Hat Afloat
• Soft Band Absorbs Sweat
• Insured Against Loss For 2 Years

BEST OF THE BEST

What kind of hat carries a lifetime guarantee against wear and shrinkage and two years of insurance against loss? The Rolls-Royce of sun hats, the Tilley Airflo. The specs on paper don’t seem very different from other hats, but a legion of devoted fans and fanatical five-star reviewers point out that it’s about the quality, not the numbers. Tilley hats deliver the goods and keep on delivering them for life. 

The only downside to the Tilley is that it’s a pricey purchase, for a hat. If that’s an issue, there are plenty of decent options farther up this list. If you want the best and you’re willing to pay for it, Tilley is there for you!

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THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A SAILING HAT

A sailing hat has to provide protection from the elements: the sun is at the top of the list, but if you sail in northern latitudes, you may also be concerned with rain and cold. Wind is part of our lives, so our hats need to anchor securely to our heads. Even the most secure anchor can come loose, so a hat that floats is a bonus! We appreciate hats that dry fast and pack small, with brims that are wide enough for protection from the sun and stiff enough to stay put in a stout breeze. The choices on our list face the challenges and come out on top!

HATS ARE IMPORTANT

Hats may seem like a frivolous item. They’re not. If you’re sailing in the sun, you need a good hat with a UPF 50 protection rating. The skin on the face and neck is particularly vulnerable to sun damage. Sunscreen helps, but dermatologists recommend a physical barrier. Get a good hat and wear it.

KNOW WHAT YOU NEED

The features that matter most to you will vary with the type of sailing you do. Assess your needs and choose a hat that fits them. If you’re just starting out and you’re not sure what you need, a good all-around sun hat will serve until you’ve refined your criteria.

KNOW WHAT YOU LIKE

A hat is a personal choice, and if you like your hat you’re more likely to be wearing it when you need the protection. It’s good to compare specs and features, but consider your personal preferences too, even if they seem a little irrational!

LEARN MORE

There aren’t many authoritative guides to choosing a sailing hat online, but Practical Sailor offers this interesting post on the subject followed by informative comments from a number of readers, and this vigorous discussion on the Yachting and Sailing World forum gives a sense of how actual sailors feel about their headgear choices!

FEATURES EXPLAINED

UPF RATINGS

A UPF rating is applied to clothing and accessories. It measures the amount of UVA and UVB radiation that penetrates the fabric and reaches the skin. It is a different rating system than SPF, which is used for sunscreens and cosmetics. A UPF rating of 50 provides near-complete protection.

BRIMS

The brim of a sailing hat is a compromise. If it’s not wide enough, it won’t protect your face or neck from the sun. If it’s too wide, the wind will force it up onto your forehead or down onto your face. Most sailing hats combine moderate-width brims with stiffeners to keep them in place.

MATERIALS

A sailing hat is going to be wet much of the time, so it needs to dry fast and stand up to repeated wetting and drying without degrading. It also needs to be crushable and packable without damage. Most sailing hats are made of nylon or a nylon/polyester blend.

INTEGRATED HEADBANDS

Sweat in the eyes can be inconvenient and annoying. Most sailing hats have integrated headbands to absorb perspiration and wick it away from the face.

The post Best Sailing Hats of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Sailing shoes provide all sorts of protection and are a key part of your sailing equipment. Finding the right sailing shoes means taking into account lots of variables, including the kind of sailing you’re planning on doing. We don’t like cold feet or busted toes here at The Adventure Junkies, so read on to learn about the best sailing shoes for you.

For more of our top sailing gear recommendations, check out the Best Sailing Hats.

QUICK ANSWER – THE BEST SAILING SHOES

1. Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoe
2. GILL Tall Yachting Boots
3. Gill Trapeze Sailing Boots
4. GILL Competition Sailing Boots
5. Rugged Shark Great White Deck Boots
6. Helly Hansen Midsund 2 Rain Boots
7. Sperry Sojourn Duck Chukka Boots
8. Body Glove Seek Watershoe
9. Dubarry Ultima Stretch Boots
10. RONSTAN Superflex Boots

SAILING SHOES REVIEWS

SPERRY AUTHENTIC ORIGINAL BOAT SHOE

 

 

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DUBARRY ULTIMA STRETCH BOOTS

GILL TALL YACHTING BOOTS

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GILL TRAPEZE SAILING BOOTS

GILL COMPETITION SAILING BOOTS

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RUGGED SHARK GREAT WHITE DECK BOOTS

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HELLY HANSEN MIDSUND 2 RAIN BOOTS

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SPERRY SOJOURN DUCK CHUKKA BOOTS

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BODY GLOVE SEEK WATERSHOE

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RONSTAN SUPERFLEX BOOTS

COMPARISON TABLE – THE BEST SAILING SHOES

PICTURE	SAILING SHOES	MATERIAL	BREATHABLE	PRICE	RATING
	Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoe	Full-Grain Leather	Yes	$$	5.0
	GILL Tall Yachting Boots	Rubber	No	$$	5.0
	Gill Trapeze Sailing Boots	Neoprene	No	$$	5.0
	GILL Competition Sailing Boots	Rubber	No	$$	4.8
	Rugged Shark Great White Deck Boots	Rubber	No	$$	4.8
	Helly Hansen Midsund 2 Rain Boots	Rubber	No	$$	4.5
	Sperry Sojourn Duck Chukka Boots	Leather/Rubber	No	$$	4.4
	Body Glove Seek Watershoe	Neoprene/Mesh	Yes	$	4.3
	Dubarry Ultima Stretch Boots	Cordura	Yes	$$$	4.7
	RONSTAN Superflex Boots	Neoprene	No	$	4.7
PICTURE	SAILING SHOES	MATERIAL	BREATHABLE	PRICE	RATING

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SAILING SHOES

TYPE OF SAILING

Equipment and clothing that you require for sailing very much depend on what type of sailing you’ll be doing. Whether it’s dinghy racing or classic cruising, your footwear needs to be right.

DINGHY SAILING

Dinghy sailing is probably the wettest kind of sailing (unless you’re into extreme performance yachts!) and so your dinghy sailing shoes need to cope. Dinghy sailing also involves shifting your body and weight quickly so clumpy shoes just aren’t going to cut it.

To keep your feet warm and easy to move in wet conditions, most dinghy sailors wear wetsuit booties. Made from neoprene, these types of boots come in different thicknesses depending on what temperatures you’ll be sailing in. Some dinghy sailing booties also have reinforced top sections so they don’t wear out when you’re feet are under the straps.

CRUISING

Cruising tends to be a much more laid back affair than dinghy sailing and shoe choice is much larger. From deck shoes to sailing wellies, your footwear choice will depend on your boat, the conditions and whether you need to go on deck or not.

The main consideration for cruising sailors is a non-marking sole. Black rubber marks are a big no-no on any boat! Cruising shoes should be reasonable waterproof in case waves come over, but also grippy, comfortable and easy to clean.

RACING

While many cruising yachts can also race, the act of racing is a more extreme form of sailing. What does that mean? It means that you’ll probably have a lot more water washing along the decks and into the cockpit.

Yachts may also be more heeled over when racing than other types of sailing so it’s easier to slip. If you want to do some racing or will be sailing a racing yacht, grippy soles are a must. Sailing shoes should also be waterproof and with a low-profile so you can move quickly should you need to.

LOCATION AND WEATHER

Will you be sailing on a lake? At sea? In big waves? In flat water? Will it be cold? Hot? Tropical? No one wants cold feet right?

If you’re sailing in a cold water area, you should plan your shoes for the water temperature, not the air temperature. Why? Because when the wind crosses water, it will often cool to the temperature of the water. Even on a hot, sunny day, sailing can get chilly if the water is cool.

In cold weather, numb toes can be a real problem. If you’re planning on cold water sailing then remember to leave room in sailing shoes for warm, thick socks.

On the flip side, if you’ll be sailing in warm seas and hot sun, you’ll need breathable sailing shoes that won’t leave your feet sweaty. Shows made from leather, mesh or GORE-TEX are usually very breathable.

MATERIAL

Sailing shoes come in all sorts of materials, mainly suited to conditions and environment. Dinghy sailing shoes need to allow you to swim in them should you capsize, hence being made out of neoprene. The thicker the neoprene, the warmer they’ll keep your feet.

Other sailing shoes can be made out of rubber or plastic. These materials are waterproof, making them good for cold water sailing. Rubber isn’t breathable though, so for warmer weather, leather or breathable synthetics are a good choice.

SOLE TYPE

Non-marking soles are crucial for any type of boat. A passenger or crew member with a marking sole is liable to be made to walk the plank. Luckily, it’s hard to find marking soles in the sailing shoe industry. All the sailing shoes featured in our reviews have non-marking soles.

Grippy soles are important as decks and cockpits can get very slippery. However, deep tread isn’t necessarily good and can pick up stones and gravel ashore which then scratch the gelcoat and wood on a boat.

Neoprene booties usually have reinforced soles for longevity and extra comfort when walking up dinghy ramps. Cheaper booties might lack this feature and could wear out much faster but are great for beginners.

COMFORT

Uncomfortable shoes are terrible so it seems like a no-brainer to buy comfortable sailing shoes. But there’s often more to it than ordinary shoes.

For instance, will you always be wearing socks? Sometimes, you might need to get out on deck quickly when you have to reef a sail. You may not have time to put socks on, so can you still wear and walk in your shoes without them?

Do you find shoes often rub? If so, finding shoes with a softer opening might be a good idea. Blisters can get infected in saltwater environments, especially if you’re sailing in the sub-tropics and tropics.

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