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 BeanSport Swimwear, Scoopneck Tanksuit Print
Price was from: $59.95 now: $49.99
Women's Vista Camp Shorts
Men's Sport Shorts with SUPPLEX® fabric, 8"
Men's Sport Shorts with SUPPLEX® fabric, 6"
Men's Sport Shorts with SUPPLEX® fabric, Cargo, 10"
Women's L.L.Bean Stretch UPF Shorts, 9"
Women's SunSmart® UPF 50+ Sun Shirt, Print
Price was from: $59.95 now: $44.99
Men's SunSmart® Cool Weave Shirt Short-Sleeve
Men's Everyday SunSmart® Tee, Short-Sleeve
Women's Tropicwear Shirt, Short-Sleeve
Men's Swift River Cooling Rash Guard
Price was from: $49.95 now: $39.99
Women's L.L.Bean Stretch UPF Shorts, 6"
Price was from: $54.95 now: $24.99
Men's Swift River Cooling Sun Shirt, Short-Sleeve
Price was from: $44.95 now: $34.99
Women's SunSmart® UPF 50+ Sun Shirt
Price was from: $54.95 now: $39.99
Women's New Currents Swimwear, Squareneck Tanksuit Print
Price was from: $89 now: $39.99
Women's SunSmart® UPF 50+ Sun Shirt, Quarter-Zip Print
Price was from: $79 now: $59.99
Men's Vacationland Stretch Swim Trunks, Print, 8"
Men's Vacationland Stretch Swim Trunks, 8"
Price was from: $59.95 now: $49.99
Women's SunSmart® UPF 50+ Sun Shirt, Quarter-Zip
Price was from: $69.95 now: $54.99
Men's Swift River Cooling Hooded Rash Guard
Price was from: $59.95 now: $49.99
Women's Tropicwear Comfort Shorts
Women's SunSmart® UPF 50+ Sun Shirt, Short-Sleeve
Price was from: $49.95 now: $40.99
Women's UPF 50+ Knit Skort
Price was from: $54.95 now: $44.99
Men's NRS HydroSkin 0.5 mm Shirt, Long-Sleeve

What To Wear Kayaking In Summer

When summer finally arrives and rivers, lakes, and coastlines beckon, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of gliding across the water in a kayak. Whether you’re planning a day of paddling with family, heading out solo to explore hidden coves, or joining friends for an afternoon adventure, the right clothing can make all the difference. Warm-weather kayaking calls for gear that’s thoughtfully designed to keep you comfortable, protected, and ready for anything the day brings. Lightweight, quick-drying layers are a must, helping you stay cool under the sun and dry after the occasional splash or swim. Many folks appreciate tops and bottoms with built-in UPF protection, giving an extra layer of sun defense that lasts all day, even when you’re far from shore. And when it comes to footwear, options with sturdy soles and secure straps help you move confidently in and out of your kayak, whether you’re launching from a sandy beach or a rocky shoreline.

Summer kayaking gear isn’t just for seasoned paddlers—these pieces make thoughtful gifts for anyone who loves spending time on the water, from beginners just learning the ropes to families introducing kids to the joys of paddling. A practical sun hat or a pair of protective gloves can be a welcome surprise for a friend who’s planning a river trip, while moisture-wicking tops and versatile shorts are handy for anyone who enjoys mixing paddling with hiking, fishing, or picnicking along the way. For those who appreciate lasting value, look for clothing that’s as durable as it is comfortable, designed to hold up to repeated wear, sun exposure, and the inevitable dunkings that come with summer adventures. Many paddlers also appreciate roomy pockets, adjustable features, and easy-care fabrics that make getting ready—and cleaning up after—a breeze. No matter your experience level or paddling plans, the right summer kayaking apparel helps you focus on the fun, from the moment you dip your paddle in the water to the last sunset stretch of the day. For more details on choosing the best gear for your next outing, visit our Kayaking Apparel page.