THE ULtimATE LAYERING GUIDE

Whether you're out for a quick training session or a full-day sail, layering the right way can make or break your experience on the water. use the guide below to learn how.

thermometer and water drops

WHY IS LAYERING CRUCIAL?

For managing temperature regulation and water resistance.

hand drawn warning sign

KEY LAYERING CHALLENGES

Wind chill, water exposure and sweating all come into play.

hand drawn sailing boat and paddle

LAYERS VS. ACTIVITY

You need to ensure you’re choosing the right layer based on activity.

Layering basics: The 3-layer system

BASE LAYER

MOISTURE MANAGEMENT

Start with a base layer. This is your moisture
management layer. Worn next to your skin and
designed to wick moisture away.
• Wicking materials (e.g., Polypro, synthetic fabrics)
• Top tip: Avoid cotton (traps moisture, makes you cold)

MID LAYER

INSULATION

Next up - Mid layer. This provides the insulation required to keep you warm and comfortable. Insulated Neoprene layers (depending on the season) or a fleece layer for dry sailing. Options available for different intensity levels (e.g., lightweight for SUP, heavier for sailing in cold weather).

OUTER LAYER

PROTECTION

Complete the trio of layers with a waterproof or
windproof outer layer. This provides the ultimate
protection against wind, spray and the elements.

man in polypro legging and tops
two women sailing in supertherm seagrass
child rigging boat in signal blue pro lite aquafleece top, overhead buoyancy aid and aeromesh cap

What to wear for the weather?

two sailor in pro aquafleece top and supertherm 4mm

COLD WEATHER

(BELOW 50°F / 10°C)

Wet:

  • Thermal base layer - Polypro or Hot Stuff 
  • Neoprene - Supertherm 4mm 
  • Waterproof & windproof outer shell - Pro Aquafleece 
  • Neoprene gloves, beanie, and Supertherm socks 

Dry:

  • Thermal base layer - PolyPro 
  • Fleece/softshell mid - layer 
  • SB1 Inshore, Coastal Hi-fits 
  • Aquapro gloves, beanie, and waterproof socks 

man in lightweight spay top and rooster cap

MILD WEATHER

(50-65°F / 10-18°C)

Wet: 

  • Light base layer - Polypro or Rash (depending on temperature) 
  • Neoprene - Thermaflex 1.5mm 
  • Water-resistant & windproof outer shell - Lightweight Spray Top, Pro Lite Aquafleece, Active Aquafleece or Classic Aquafleece 

Dry: 

  • Light base layer - Polypro or Quick dry UVF tech t-shirt 
  • Fleece or softshell mid-layer 
  • Waterproof jacket or water-resistant shell- SB1 Inshore or Active Aquafleece or Pro Lite Aquafleece 
  • Quick-dry leggings or technical shorts 
women sailor wearing seagrass rash vest and bibs

WARM WEATHER

(65°F+ / 18°C+)

Wet & Dry: 

  • UV - protective rash guard or quick dry UVF tech t-shirt  
  • Technical Shorts or lightweight leggings - Pro Rash 
  • Minimal outer layer (Lightweight spray top if needed) 
  • Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen 
pro tip even in warm weather the wind and water can make you cold always carry a backup later

Additional layers & accessories

Gloves

Boots & Socks

Hats

Buoyancy Aids

FAQ’s

Q:What’s the difference between a 4mm Supertherm 
wetsuit and a 1.5mm Thermaflex wetsuit?
A:Our Supertherm wetsuits are made from 4mm neoprene 
with GBS (Glued Blind Stitching) and a superthermal 
wicking lining, making them ideal for colder conditions 
where minimal water ingress through the seams is 
expected. In contrast, our Thermaex wetsuits are made 
from 1.5mm neoprene with atlock stitching, oering 
greater breathability and exibility, making them better 
suited for warmer waters
Q:Can I just wear a hoodie if it’s chilly?
A:No! Cotton absorbs moisture and makes you colder. Stick to 
moisture-wicking layers
Q:What’s the best fabric for a base layer?
A:For cold and wet conditions, Polypro® is the ideal fabric to 
wear under your neoprene layers. Its naturally hydrophobic 
properties help wick moisture away from your skin, working 
together with the neoprene to keep you warmer and 
more comfortable