What To Wear Kayaking In Summer

What to wear kayaking in summer comes down to comfort, versatility, and staying ready for every adventure on the water. Lightweight layers, quick-drying materials, and sun-smart accessories help keep you cool and protected as you paddle through warm days. With the right clothing and gear, it’s easy to focus on making memories—whether you’re out for a few hours or the whole day. Get ready to enjoy every moment on the water with styles designed for lasting comfort and enjoyment.

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Women's Vista Camp Shorts

A lightweight, rugged pair of mid-rise shorts with UPF 50+ protection and a fully elastic waistband.

Pros: Flattering fit Good quality Lightweight Comfortable Quick-drying
Men's Sport Shorts with SUPPLEX® fabric, 8"
Price was from: $39.95 now: $29.99

A versatile pair of 8" nylon sport shorts in nectar, featuring UPF 50+ protection and quick-drying fabric.

Pros: High quality Attractive design Fast-drying material Comfortable Good fit
Men's Sport Shorts with SUPPLEX® fabric, 6"
Price was from: $39.95 now: $29.99

A versatile pair of 6" nylon swim trunks with UPF 50+ and quick-drying, anti-odor polyester mesh liner.

Pros: Perfect fit Durable Versatile Quick-drying Comfortable
Women's SunSmart® UPF 50+ Sun Shirt, Print
Price was from: $59.95 now: $34.99

A multi-color, silky smooth sun shirt offering UPF 50+ protection in a nylon and Lycra blend.

Pros: Lightweight and comfortable Effective sun protection Versatile for water sports Soft and smooth feel Attractive color and print
Men's SunSmart® Cool Weave Shirt Short-Sleeve

A lightweight red shirt offering UPF 50+ protection, moisture-wicking, and quick-dry performance.

Pros: High quality material Excellent for summer Cool and lightweight True to size Comfortable fit
Men's Everyday SunSmart® Tee, Short-Sleeve

A breathable, sun-blocking tee in carbon navy with UPF 50+ and moisture-wicking, quick-dry performance.

Pros: Effective sun protection Lightweight and breathable Soft and cozy material Versatile and well-made Comfortable fit
Women's L.L.Bean Stretch UPF Shorts, 6"
Price was from: $54.95 now: $24.99

A pair of platinum mid-rise shorts with UPF 50+ protection, made from a recycled polyester-spandex blend.

Pros: Consistent sizing Color matches expectations Comfortable fit
Women's New Currents Swimwear, Squareneck Tanksuit Print
Price was from: $89 now: $39.99

A hot coral tropical tanksuit offering UPF 50+ protection, moderate support, and quick-drying comfort.

Pros: High quality Supportive straps Versatile style Great color Comfortable fit
Women's New Currents Swimwear, Swim Shorts
Price was from: $59.95 now: $39.99

A versatile pair of green swim shorts offering UPF 50+ protection and moderate compression for active comfort.

Pros: Great fit Perfect length Stylish design Versatile use Flattering look
Men's Vacationland Stretch Swim Trunks, Print, 8"

A multi-color swim trunk with UPF 50+ protection, four-way stretch, and quick-drying fabric.

Pros: Vibrant color Convenient zip pocket True to size Roomy design Comfortable fit
Women's Tropicwear Comfort Shorts

A lightweight tan short made from recycled polyester blend, offering UPF 50+ sun protection and quick-drying comfort.

Pros: Good inseam length Easy on and off Soft fabric
Women's SunSmart® UPF 50+ Sun Shirt, Short-Sleeve
Price was from: $49.95 now: $29.99

A lightweight pink sun shirt in a silky nylon-Lycra blend with UPF 50+ and quick-dry performance.

Pros: Quick drying Excellent sun protection Durable Easy to wash Nice fabric
Women's Coastal Essentials Swimwear, Long-Sleeve Tanksuit Print

A stylish blue long-sleeve tanksuit offering UPF 50+ sun protection and moderate support.
Men's NRS HydroSkin 0.5 mm Shirt, Long-Sleeve

A long-sleeve insulating layer for paddling with 0.5 mm neoprene and stretchable nylon-spandex in navy.
Men's Swift River Cooling Sun Shirt, Short-Sleeve Graphic
Price was from: $44.95 now: $24.99

A high-performance blue swim shirt with UPF 50+ protection, quick-drying fabric, and a secure pocket.
Women's UPF 50+ Knit Skort
Price was from: $54.95 now: $34.99

A red swim skort with UPF 50+ protection, featuring quick-drying recycled nylon and Lycra blend.
Women's SunSmart® UPF 50+ Sun Shirt, Hooded Tunic
Price was from: $79.95 now: $39.99

A lightweight blue hooded tunic offering UPF 50+ protection with quick-drying recycled nylon blend fabric.
Men's Everyday SunSmart® Tee, Long-Sleeve Quarter-Zip

An orange polyester blend quarter-zip tee offering UPF 50+ sun protection and moisture-wicking comfort.
Men's Vacationland Stretch Swim Trunks, Print, 6"
Price was from: $59.95 now: $49.99

A multi-color swim trunk with UPF 50+ protection and four-way stretch for ultimate comfort and mobility.
Men's NRS HydroSkin 0.5 Jacket

A versatile navy neoprene jacket offering moderate cold water and wind protection with a snug, form-fitting design.
Men's Ripstop Hybrid Shorts, 7"
Price was from: $69.95 now: $44.99

A versatile blue short with UPF 50+, made from recycled nylon blend for comfort and quick-drying.
Women's Vista Camp Pants, Slim-Leg

A pair of brown slim-leg pants with UPF 50+ protection, made from a durable nylon blend.

Pros: Great quality Versatile style Lightweight material Perfect for hiking Comfortable fit
Men's Airlight Knit Pullover

A warm gold synthetic fleece pullover offering moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and UPF 50+ protection.

Pros: Lightweight warmth Quick-drying fabric Versatile use Stylish appearance Comfortable fit
Men's Water-Resistant Cresta Hiking Pants, Standard Fit

A durable, water-resistant hiking pant with UPF 50+ protection, featuring articulated knees and zippered pockets.

Pros: Water-resistant feature Durable fabric Versatile use Lightweight design Comfortable fit

What To Wear Kayaking In Summer

When the sun is high and the water is sparkling, summer kayaking is one of those simple joys that calls for the right gear to make every paddle stroke comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Choosing what to wear for a day on the water means thinking about more than just staying cool—it’s about protecting your skin, moving freely, and keeping your spirits high from launch to landing. Lightweight, quick-drying clothing is key, as materials like nylon and polyester help wick away moisture and dry fast, even after a splash or a quick swim. Long sleeves and pants in light colors offer an extra layer of defense against the sun’s rays and pesky insects, while UPF-rated fabrics add peace of mind for those longer stretches under blue skies. A wide-brimmed hat with a secure chin strap keeps the sun off your face and neck, and a pair of polarized sunglasses with a reliable strap helps cut the glare so you can spot every ripple and reflection. For your feet, water shoes or sturdy sandals with straps are a must—they protect against rocky shorelines, won’t slip off if you wade in, and dry quickly so you stay comfortable all day. It’s best to skip flip-flops, as they’re prone to floating away or getting lost in the current.

Whether you’re heading out for a solo paddle, joining friends for a group trip, or looking for the perfect gift for someone who loves the outdoors, the right kayaking apparel makes all the difference. Many folks find that layering a rash guard or quick-dry top over a swimsuit is a smart solution, offering both comfort and sun protection while preventing chafing from the paddle or life vest. These pieces are easy to mix and match, making them a practical addition to any outdoor wardrobe. A personal flotation device (PFD) is essential for every paddler, providing security and confidence for new kayakers and seasoned adventurers alike. Sunscreen is another non-negotiable—apply it to any exposed skin before you set off, and keep a small bottle handy for touch-ups throughout the day. The versatility and lasting value of these items make them a thoughtful gift for anyone who enjoys exploring rivers, lakes, or coastal waters, whether they’re just getting started or have been paddling for years. As summer winds down and early fall brings cooler mornings, having a few extra layers on hand ensures you’re ready for changing weather, letting you make the most of every outing.

Practical, comfortable, and built for lasting use, the right kayaking apparel helps you focus on what matters most: enjoying the water, taking in the scenery, and sharing good times with friends and family. When you’re ready to gear up for your next adventure, you’ll find a wide selection of durable, thoughtfully designed options in our Kayaking Apparel collection. With the right combination of sun-smart clothing, protective accessories, and reliable footwear, you’ll be set for safe, memorable days on the water—no matter where your paddle takes you.