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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.
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I rang to request some advice on replacement parts for my dinghy and was very impressed with the excellent advice and efficient delivery of the required parts. Many thanks
Great product, safely packaged, delivered on time, at a competitive price. One more thing - the person on the end of the phone is an actual person, informative, helpful, knowledgeable and pleasant. What more could you ask for.
The sales team were quick responding to our questions, dispatched to us promptly, and the product is a perfect replacement for our old tiller which ended up at the bottom of a lake!
It was time for me to upgrade to a newer Ilca and it was recommended that I get a Devoti. The price was competitive and the service from Andrew and his team was fantastic. I received lots of communication and the boat was delivered to me within 2 weeks. It is really great that Sailing Chandlery take the time to set up the rigging so that you can get straight on the water. I am very pleased with my new boat and am loving sailing it. Thank you Sailing Chandlery!
Ordered a dyneema RSAero halyard on the Thursday. It arrived by mid day on the Friday and was used on the Saturday. Excellent product and service. Thank you
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.
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!
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
Prompt delivery, with helpful updates and time slot spot on. Perfect new sail at a great price and the number fixing service is well worth it. It even won its first race! Thank you.
I needed GBR letters for the ILCA Europeans and they arrived by the next post.
I made a mistake on my order and it was put right at zero cost to me ! Amazing !
I’ll certainly be back
Product exactly what I wanted
Excellent service and prompt delivery.
Had the boom and mast in stock. Order processed quickly, great service and local so could pick them up. Friendly and helpful staff as always. Thank you
Delivered on time after chatting by phone to a very helpful person at Sailing chandlery. Absolutely no complaint with this Company and will continue to use them for my sailing needs.
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