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July 05, 2025 2 min read
Sailing in the summer might seem all about the sunshine and warm weather, but anyone who's spent a day on the water knows how quick the weather can change. A sunny morning can turn into a chilly, windy afternoon and spray or breeze can make it feel a lot cooler than the thermometer says.
That's why smart layering is key to staying comfortable and performing at your best on the water during the summer months. It's not just about staying warm - it's about managing moisture, protecting your skin from the sun, and having the right gear to handle whatever the sea throws at you.
The best part? You can chop and change these as you like, and tailor your setup to your needs and requirements to keep you safe and comfortable on the water, rain or shine!
Here's our guide to the must-have summer sailing layering essentials - lightweight, breathable and designed to keep you cool and dry all summer long.
The base layer is your first line of defence. Look for the materials that wick sweat away from your skin and dry quickly, so you don't feel clammy or overheated. Products like the Zhik Mens Short Sleeve Spandex Rash Vest Top are perfect for this. These summer layering essentials offer UV protection and are designed to be worn all day without restricting movement.
Even in the summer, those cooler moments can sneak up on you, especially on early mornings or late afternoon races. A hydrophobic fleece like Zhik Hydrophobic Fleece Top provides just the right amount of warmth whilst repelling water from spray or light showers.
Wind and spray are the biggest challenges on the water. A layer like the Zhik Performance Smock is windproof and splash resistant, designed to keep you dry without overheating. It's lightweight and breathable - ideal for Dinghy sailors RIB crews, or anyone spending long hours on the water.
Small but important details make a huge difference. Lightweight gloves protect your hands without causing sweat, and technical sailing socks keep your feet comfortable and blister-free. These little extras ensure you stay focused on sailing - not on discomfort.
Base Layer - choose breathable tops and bottoms with UV protection
Mid Layer - Pick a water repellent fleece for those cooler spells
Outer Layer - Opt for a windproof, splash resistant smock or jacket
Accessories - Include gloves, socks and head protection for peak comfort
Our summer layering essentials are all about giving you freedom to move, protection from the elements, and confidence to perform at your best. Browse our full range of summer sailing kit today and set sail knowing you're prepared for anything.
Perfect with 6 mm shockcord for reefing mainsail. Delivered promptly.
Cover arrived after three days and is well made and completely covers the boat boom up . The straps and clips all work fine. Good product.
Best padding I've found for my ancient rear end!
Ropes are great quality and do the job they say they do! Would highly recommend - price is also a lot more reasonable than equivalents from other companies
Much better than those we previously got from a large DIY super store. Stronger and easier to fit.
Just used my new launching trolley for the first time.
Super easy to assemble (about 3 minutes). Fits my laser perfectly and very easy launch and recovery.
What more can I say....other than I would happily recommend.
My local chandlery were unable to supply a white inspection hatch and so it was amatter of looking online. Sailing Chandlery had the cover I needed in stock at a good price and delivery. I had never used them before but the service I received was excellent with the delivery on time and the hatch is now fitted.
I will definitely return, especially with the discounts on offer. Thank you Sailing Chandlery!
I have a old but still fast Laser from the 70s that I have been gifted, I am doing some tidying up, and have noticed that the toe strap elastic was tied to the traveler. So I have changed it to the Laser Anodised Traveller Cleat, this great idea secures the elastic and stops interference to the traveler by keeping each part separate.
Perfect size, shape and works well
Needed 5m of a low stretch rope to act as a mast raising / lowering tail on my Wayfarer forestay as the existing 5mm rope was a bit thick to pass under my reefing spar attachment. Now it fits snugly and the mast raises and lowers better than it did before because of less friction and "bounce".
The top cover was delivered on time as expected. The cover fits perfectly and hopefully it will last forever … Thank you
Bought this for my son so can’t personally comment as I’ve not used it. However he was very pleased with the purchase and said it’s great quality.
Always happy with my orders from Sailing Chandlery. They are quick to post and very helpful when I have had a question.
Jason delivered the boat on time at Hayling Island Sailing Club. The boat was new and all the spars were in perfect condition. Jason came to pick up the boat and return the deposit which I gave at the time of the delivery. Every interaction with Andrew and Jason were handled very professionally. I will recommend to any sailor Sailing Chandlery in the future. I really appreciated how easy it was to charter this boat. Thank you very much. Jacques Kerrest
This was a birthday present for a sailing daughter (i don't sail!) She was delighted, it hasn't been out on the water yet but she's looking forward to trying it out and says it's just what she wanted... so looks like a good choice by me after helpful advice from Sailing Chandlery staff!
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