Sailing is a popular pastime in Australia, with many people taking to the water to enjoy the beautiful scenery and warm weather. If you’re a woman who loves sailing, it’s important to have the right outfit to stay comfortable and safe on the water. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some key pieces of clothing and accessories that every woman sailor should have in their wardrobe.
First and foremost, safety should always be your top priority when sailing. This means wearing a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) at all times. A PFD is a must-have for any sailor, regardless of their level of experience. Look for a PFD that is comfortable to wear and has plenty of pockets and attachments for storing essentials like a whistle and flashlight.
Choosing the right life jacket for sailing is an important decision that can ensure your safety on the water. Here are a few things to consider when making your selection:
- Type of Life jacket: There are several different types of life jackets available, including inflatable, foam-based, and hybrid. Inflatable life jackets are lightweight and comfortable to wear, but they require manual activation or inflation. Foam-based life jackets are more bulky but they provide more flotation and they don’t require manual activation. Hybrid life jackets are a combination of the two. It’s important to choose a life jacket that is suitable for the type of sailing you will be doing.
- Fit: A life jacket that fits well is essential for comfort and safety. Make sure to try on different life jackets to find one that is the right size and fits comfortably. Look for life jackets with adjustable straps and closures that can be tightened or loosened as needed.
- Buoyancy: The buoyancy of a life jacket is measured in Newtons (N). The higher the Newton rating, the more buoyancy the life jacket will provide. For sailing, a life jacket with a buoyancy of at least 50N is recommended.
- Features: Some life jackets come with additional features such as pockets, attachments for whistles and lights, and reflective tape. These features can be useful for sailors, especially when sailing in low light conditions or in remote areas.
- Certification: Look for a life jacket that has been certified by a reputable organization such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) or the United States Coast Guard (USCG). These certifications indicate that the life jacket has been tested and meets certain safety standards.
Next, you’ll want to think about protection from the sun. Australia’s climate is known for its hot, sunny weather, and it’s essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays while out on the water. A long-sleeved rash guard is a great option for this. Rash guards are made from quick-drying material that provides UV protection, and the long sleeves will help to protect your arms from sunburn. Pair this with a sun hat or baseball cap to keep the sun off your face and neck.
When it comes to bottoms, you have a few options. Board shorts or quick-dry pants are a popular choice for sailors, as they are lightweight and comfortable to move in. They also dry quickly if you get wet. Another option is to wear a swimsuit with a pair of shorts or leggings over the top. This will provide more coverage and make it more comfortable to move around in.
Footwear is also an important consideration when sailing. You’ll want to wear a pair of shoes or sandals that have a non-slip sole. This will help to prevent slips and falls on the wet deck. Look for shoes or sandals with good traction and a toe cap for added protection.
In addition to these essentials, you may also want to bring along a few extra items to make your sailing experience more comfortable. A waterproof bag or dry bag is a great way to keep your personal belongings dry and protected from the elements. A lightweight towel is also a good idea, as it can be used to dry off or as a cushion for sitting on the deck.
Finally, don’t forget to bring along some snacks and water to keep yourself hydrated. Sailing can be hard work, and it’s important to stay fueled and hydrated throughout the day. Pack some granola bars, fruits, and plenty of water.
In conclusion, sailing is a great way to enjoy the beautiful Australian scenery and warm weather. By having the right outfit and accessories, you can stay comfortable and safe while out on the water. Remember to always wear a PFD, protect yourself from the sun, wear appropriate footwear, and bring along any extra items you might need. Happy sailing!
Gabriela is a journalist and the publisher at Vitamin Sea. She’s passionate about the ocean and sharing inspiring stories.
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