What to Bring and What to Wear

To make the most of your kayaking adventure, it is essential to wear the right clothing and to bring the right gear.  Below are our suggestions to insure an enjoyable time.  Remember, conditions may change quickly on the water, so think about multiple layers that will work well together, or separately, to cover the greatest range of conditions.  If you go to your closet and do not find our suggestions, remember you can make substitutions (as long as your choice is not made of cotton).  Freedom of movement is the most important criteria for your selections.  This list is compiled with the water temperature being at least 55°, below which, we recommend a drysuit.  Remember to bring those extra clothes for after your paddle. You will probably get wet, and it would be a shame to not have dry comfortable clothing for the rest of the day in our beautiful town and on our surrounding hiking trails.  If your closet doesn't contain adequate choices, come on up anyway.  Hudson Valley Outfitters stocks a unique selection of paddling and hiking clothing.  Please call us if you need help selecting the right items for your kayaking adventure.

Photo by Ken Allen

What to Wear

  • Layered Clothing Appropriate for the Weather (no cotton)

    • Forecast 60°

      • Light Weight Long Sleeve Top - Synthetic or Wool

      • Fleece Jacket or Wool Sweater

      • Windbreaker or Waterproof Jacket

      • Light Weight Bottoms - Synthetic or Wool

      • Waterproof Pants

    • Forecast 70°

      • Light Weight Long Sleeve Top - Synthetic or Wool

      • Fleece Jacket or Wool Sweater

      • Quick Dry Pants or Shorts

    • Forecast 80°+

      • Light Weight Long or Short Sleeve Top - Synthetic

      • Quick Dry Shorts or Pants

    • Forecast Drizzle

      • Layered Clothing Appropriate for the Air Temperature

      • Waterproof Jacket w/Hood

      • Waterproof Pants

  • Shoes you can walk in the water with - suggestions:

    • Neoprene Booties (for a cooler forecast)

    • Aqua Shoes

    • Water Sandals, or

    • Old Sneakers (your feet will most likely get wet)

What to Bring

Essential:

  • Sunscreen and Bug Spray

  • Water Bottle (1 qt.) or Hydration System

  • Snacks

  • Waterproof Bag for Wallet and Keys

  • Hat with Visor

  • Sunglasses with strap

  • Don't Forget Extra Clothes

Optional:

  • Camera

  • Binoculars