Advice On Sailing Apparel For SailorsSailing apparel is designed for different climates. You don't need an Ocean racing jacket with fleece lining for a cruise around the Caribbean. But you would really appreciate having it for the Fastnet! The two most important benefits of sailing clothing - after looking good in sailing sunglasses on the water! are warmth and being dry. Taking warmth first. Whether your cruising near home or going further afield, it is good practice to check what kind of clothes are best to keep warm, or cool. Find out the weather forecast in advance and pack accordingly. If you are lucky enough to be cruising around the Caribbean in the sunshine, you'll need a fleece or thermal layer for the onshore breeze during dinner. Without dry you cannot be warm. You need to ensure that your gear is in good nick. Finding out 'old faithful' has lost it's fidelity as the rain sets in is not pleasant. So check the seams regularly and look for tears too. The double cuff is a tremendous development! Gortex is a blessing as are the breathable qualities in modern sailing apparel. 
Wearing several midlayers beneath your jacket is how warmth builds. However consider the wicking qualities of 100% polyester over cotton or you may find yourself cold from inside rather than out. Sailing apparel is designed to allow body moisture out but keep rain at bay. As moisture collects within your clothes, warmth is lost. Once you have a break from your position's work you will cool down quickly. Wool or fleece retains heat when wet, cotton does not. Thermal layers Gives a further explanation why. Wearing a cap or sailing hats ensures, you don't loose all of the 25% of your body heat through your head. Keeping the extremities of your body warmth in periods of inactivity is challenging. Sailing apparel includes sailing boots Whether they are full length, or 3/4 they ought to be big enough to allow a thick pair of socks. If your wearing sailing shoes with out socks beware stain leaching onto your feet! The soles of your footwear should be able to absorb shock and grip well -even laterally. Day sailing is different to night passages or trips. If weather changes occur, during a trip, this is when salopettes become useful. They tend to be fleece lined and non fleeced, usually for racing. Look out for the elasticity in shoulders going, as moving round the boat with your salopettes falling off is tricky, even in calm weather!
More and more, clothing companies like Fat Face Clothing are getting in on the sailing scene. It's not just about the clothes anymore. They offer hardware and technical clothes as well. Have a look at Fat Face Clothing for their partnerships in other outdoor sports. Crew and skippers alike need their kit to be in good condition and up to the challenges expected from them. Once your outer layer is compromised by rain or sea it is difficult to stay comfortable. Bringing extra clothes for a change is good practice. But if the crew is stowing kit on board during races then check with skipper first before bring your extended wardrobe!
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