Taster Lesson - Winter Paddling Clothing

Shorter days, colder temperatures and biting winds don’t have to mean the end of your paddling season. With the right clothing systems and a bit of preparation, winter can offer some of the most rewarding and beautiful days on the water.

In this taster lesson from our Core Skills course, we take a practical look at how to dress for winter sea kayaking. The focus isn’t just on comfort, but on safety, functionality and maintaining performance when conditions are cold, wet and windy.

We break winter clothing down into simple, manageable systems, starting with drysuits and layering, and then looking in detail at how to protect your hands, head and feet. From base layers and insulation to pogies, mitts, neoprene headwear and winter boots, this lesson explains why each choice matters and how to adapt your kit to the conditions you’re paddling in.

You’ll also find some useful bonus tips, including what extra items to pack to stay comfortable on longer winter days, how to manage warmth during breaks, and small details that can make a big difference when temperatures drop.

This lesson is designed to help you paddle confidently through the winter months, rather than avoiding them altogether. With the right approach and the right kit, cold conditions don’t have to limit your time on the water.