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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.
Really good selection of rope sizes, delivered speedily. Great idea to put the offcuts to good use. Caused a few laughs when people realised what I'd ordered ;-)
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!
Love the fact they don’t leak.
You do need to squeeze to get liquid out. Which is so much better. Don’t lose liquid etc.
nice size and robust
Great for when it’s not too cold. But is windy and wet. Needing to stay dry on top.
Very easy to install. May need some additional sealing for complete water-tightness.
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!
Excellent fit for a topaz. Great service on collection.
Perfect
Love this bag. Great wet area within it as well.
Excellent to use as for a birthday gift to family members keen on sailing
Currently 2 weeks into an Eastern Mediterranean trip with these shoes. Grip is great and they drain really well. Comfort is brilliant… as long as you take the right size. I followed the measurement guidelines and they work well. Highly recommend shoe!
Quick despatch and a good quality product. Moves smoothly along the boom.
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
Reeves really easily, jams well and excellent grip
I bought the burgee and clip for a Hartley 12 and found downwind sailing much easier single handed. The clip came with the screws so it was a 10 minute job including dropping the mast. Website worked well again and the items were delivered quickly so a good job all round.
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