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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.
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
Nice-looking bung, all in one piece. No more looking for the bung when you have let it drain from the last time, and bought this to create a second drain socket in my Solo.
They have good paddings
It fits exactly fine to laser pico. Straps are very usefull. Hole at the back helps you store your upper mast easily under the cover. Looks very durable. Delivery was very fast. Thanks
Product as described and very prompt delivery
Usual harken good stuff
Easy to find, quick dispatch, on the boat now.
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.
Fantastic price for first class quality
They work well
Fantastic product. Toasty feel
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.
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