When you think of kayaking, you might not immediately think of Florida. But Florida is actually a great place to go kayaking! There are many different scenic places to paddle, and the weather is almost always perfect for it. But what should you wear when kayaking in Florida?
Paddling through a tropical paradise is similar to kayaking in Florida. With over 1,000 miles of coastline and 1,700 miles of streams and rivers to explore, the Sunshine State is surrounded by water.
If you visit Lover’s Key, Florida for your first kayaking adventure, you’re in for a treat! It’s a good idea to educate yourself on the fundamentals of kayaking before renting a kayak.
Before You Go Kayaking in Florida:
Before you go kayaking in Florida, you should consider the following factors:
Kayaking rules
Non-motorized and powered watercraft are governed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s laws and regulations. Although kayakers are not required to obey the same laws as motorized vessels, some of these rules do apply to them.
Weather forecast
It is critical to check the weather prediction in order to dress properly. Wearing a thermal shirt and windbreaker, for example, may be acceptable on a breezy, cool day, but it may be uncomfortable on a hot day.
Water temperature
You should know the temperature of the water as well as the temperature of the air. A bathing suit or dry suit is often good for hot water temperatures, whilst a wetsuit is ideal for cold water temperatures.
What to wear kayaking in Florida
Layers:
Layering entails wearing a number of light and adaptable clothing that may keep you warm just as well as a single heavier one. Consider wearing an inner or base-layer composed of a material that insulates you and eliminates sweat while enabling you to move freely. To keep you warm and dry, the outer layer should be waterproof, breathable, and windproof.
Long-sleeves:
A quick-drying, moisture-wicking long-sleeve shirt offers total sun protection. Simply make sure it’s made of a light, breathable fabric for maximum comfort.
Sunglasses:
They will shield your eyes from the harsh rays of the sun. Consider polarized sunglasses, which will allow you to see well through the water.
Shoes:
Water shoes or boots are an excellent choice for kayaking. They will stay on your feet, protect your feet from rocks, and keep your feet toasty. Sneakers with wool socks, river sandals with correct straps, neoprene wetsuit booties, or specialist paddling shoes can also be used.
Sunscreen:
Because of its proximity to the equator, the sun’s rays are brighter in Florida than in the rest of the country. The rays might produce heatstroke and terrible sunburns if you are not acclimated to them. As a result, it is critical to apply sunscreen more liberally than normal.
Paddling gloves:
Lightweight gloves made of neoprene, polypropylene, or wool can shield you from abrasion and exposure. Paddle shafts, pogies, and mittens that fit securely over your hands are also appropriate for keeping you warm and dry.
Buoyancy Aids
Buoyancy aids are a type of lifesaving vest that allows for better arm and neck movement. They are more suited to wear when kayaking because they are designed for physical activities.
Even if you’re a good swimmer, you should use a buoyancy aid. If you fall out of the kayak, you risk hitting your head or injuring yourself. If you are unable to swim for whatever reason, buoyancy aids will assist you in staying afloat.
What to avoid wearing when kayaking in Florida
Jeans
Jeans are made of heavy, perspiration-sucking fabric. Because of this, kayaking in Florida may be difficult if you don’t have the proper gear.
Flip flops
In the water, they may be readily removed. Because of this, the soles may be dangerously slippery.
Cotton clothes
Your clothing will become wet even if you don’t flip your kayak because of drippings, splashes, and sprays. Cotton clothing may be very chilly and ill-fitting because it rapidly wicks away water and stays damp. Instead, use synthetic fabrics like Gore-Tex, fleece, and polyester, which are quick-drying and easy to pack up.
Kayaking Tips for Beginners
Dress and Water
Florida is hot, hot, hot for most of the year. When you go kayaking, you should dress in summery clothes like t-shirts and shorts.
Water takes a long time to heat up, even when the weather is scorching. It will most likely be chilly enough to give you a chill if you fall in. There’s also the air to consider, which might make you feel cold if you get wet.
This temperature differential is most noticeable in the winter, which is Florida’s peak season. In the afternoons, air temperatures can range from the 50s to the upper 70s and 80s, while water temperatures remain consistent in the 60s.
Rent the right paddle.
Paddles designed for whitewater rapids are not the same as those designed for recreational use. Those paddles are short to make paddling easy and quick.
Recreational paddles, on the other hand, are longer due to the fact that they are designed for leisurely paddling. Even yet, when it comes to choosing a paddle, your size and the size of your kayak are important considerations.
Your paddle should be shorter than your height. Paddling with a paddle that is too long will be exhausting and difficult. A shorter paddle will be ineffective for taller individuals, and they will be unable to reach the water.
However, regardless of your size, if your kayak is larger, you may need to consider a longer paddle.
Paddle Correctly
Pull your paddle towards you once it’s in the water. But don’t pull too hard or too tightly on the paddle. This will injure your arms and hands as well as stiffen them up, making them less mobile.
Maintain your balance by standing up straight with your nose aligned with the boat’s tip. If you’re balanced, you won’t have to worry about the kayak toppling and flinging you into the water.
Maintain correct sitting posture.
Maintaining a proper seating position is one of the most crucial pieces of kayaking advice for beginners.
Although sitting erect in the cockpit might be exhausting, it is preferable to straining your muscles.
Bend your knees and make sure your legs have adequate room to move around.
Best time of year to go kayaking in Florida?
There are many different times of year to kayak in Florida, but the best time of year to kayak is typical during the spring and summer months. This is because the water is warmer and the weather is generally more favorable. However, there are also some great kayaking opportunities during the fall and winter months, depending on the location.
Different types of kayaking available in Florida
The different types of kayaking available in Florida are whitewater kayaking, touring kayaking, and recreational kayaking. Whitewater kayaking is the most dangerous type of kayaking and is for experienced kayakers only. Touring kayaking is a safer type of kayaking that is perfect for beginner kayakers. Recreational kayaking is for people who just want to enjoy the water and relax.
Top kayaking spots in Florida
The best kayaking spots in Florida are found in the Gulf Coast region. These kayaking spots are perfect for kayakers who want to explore the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. Some of the best Gulf Coast kayaking spots include the following:
- Matlacha Bay
- Cabbage Key
- North Key Largo
- Islamorada
The best kayaking spots in Florida are also found in the Tampa Bay region. These kayaking spots are perfect for kayakers who want to explore the beautiful Tampa Bay. Some of the best Tampa Bay kayaking spots include the following:
- Clearwater Beach
- St. Pete Beach
- Sarasota Bay
- Tarpon Springs
The best kayaking spots in Florida are also found in the Miami-Dade region. These kayaking spots are perfect for kayakers who want to explore the beautiful Miami-Dade. Some of the best Miami-Dade kayaking spots include the following:
- Coral Gables
- Biscayne Bay
- Cutler Bay
- South Beach
- Miami
The best kayaking spots in Florida are also found in the Orlando-Kissimmee region. These kayaking spots are perfect for kayakers who want to explore the beautiful Orlando-Kissimmee area. Some of the best Orlando-Kissimmee kayaking spots include the following:
- Lake Eola
- Lake Buena Vista
- Lake Nona
- Lake Osceola
- Orlando
What To Wear For Kayaking In North Florida
Summertime temperatures in North Florida may reach 85-100 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoiding heat exhaustion and sunburn may be prevented by dressing correctly. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a long or short-sleeved shirt and applying sunscreen. Convertible pants, which can be worn as shorts by just unzipping the bottoms, are a great way to protect your legs from the sun.
In addition to keeping your feet warm, water shoes also shield you from potentially harmful debris both on land and in the water. A portion of our cruises takes place in the marshlands of the Intracoastal waterway. Wearing a pair of water shoes (or a pair of old sneakers) can protect your feet in the event that your boat capsizes.
Reflections from the river make it difficult to see in the morning. Squinting your eyes all morning may be avoided with the use of sunglasses and a wide-brimmed cap.
What To Wear For Kayaking In Summer
Depending on the water temperature, dressing for kayaking in the summer might be a breeze or a hardship. Sun protection is important in hot weather and warm water, but if the water is cold, you must balance comfort in the cockpit with safety in the case of a swim.
Paddlers should focus on apparel that keeps them cool and protects them from the sun in hot circumstances with warm water. Long-sleeved wicking base layers give ample coverage and sun protection. For ultimate coverage, specialized base layers with hoods and long sleeves are provided.
In many circumstances, shorts will be enough, but long, quick-dry nylon trousers will provide additional protection from the sun and biting insects. Sun protection can also be obtained by wearing lightweight nylon shirts or hooded tops. A broad-brimmed hat is a smart choice to keep the sun off your face and neck.
Additional equipment needs to Bring before kayaking
- If it rains, bring a rain jacket, a towel, and a change of clothes in case you get wet.
- Binoculars with a camera to take in the scenery and capture memories.
- Snacks and lots of water are recommended.
- Anything you don’t want to get wet should be kept in a waterproof case.
- Repellent for insects
FAQ
Are life jackets required on kayaks in Florida?
Florida law requires kayakers and canoeists to carry a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device onboard, but they are not forced to use it. The most popular PFD is Type III, and Bill Jackson’s carries a vast assortment appropriate for kayak fishers and leisure paddlers.
Do I need a license to fish from a kayak in Florida?
Even if you hire a kayak fishing guide, you will still need your license if you are fishing from a kayak. A fishing license is not needed for children under the age of 16.
What should I wear kayaking in Florida?
You should wear light, loose-fitting clothes that will keep you cool and won’t restrict your movement. Avoid wearing jeans or anything with too much fabric, as they can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to paddle.
What are some good tips for staying cool while kayaking in Florida?
Some good tips for staying cool while kayaking in Florida are to wear light colors, stay in the shade when possible, and drink plenty of water.
What kind of shoes should I wear?
You should wear shoes that you can get wet and that will provide good traction. Water shoes or sandals are a good option.
How do I protect myself from alligators while kayaking in Florida?
Alligators are common in Florida, so be sure to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid areas with high alligator populations. If you see an alligator while kayaking, stay calm and paddle away slowly.
Conclusion
Kayaking for clothing is comparable to that required for other outdoor activities. You should dress appropriately to be dry and warm when kayaking, ensuring a safe and pleasurable experience.
Finally, when on the road, you should look for durability, adaptability, and comfort.
Hello. My name is Tony K. Henderson. I love kayaking whenever I get the time, and I am very fond of fishing, too. The techniques and knowledge of being a paddler are amusing. I have shared all my knowledge about kayaking and fishing on my website. Feel free to read them and learn more important things and facts about kayaking and fishing.