Waterwear is essential for many water sports. Be it adventure sports, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, or lifesaving training, you probably won't do it just in swimwear.

Between Swimwear and Wetsuit

When it is too warm to endure a wetsuit, but not right for swimwear, waterwear offers you convenience and sun protection. You can avoid the bulk and discomfort of a wetsuit if you don't need that much warmth.

Waterwear will keep you warm, but not necessarily dry. You probably spend more time out of the water and only occasionally jump in or get splashed. Be prepared to swim well in your water clothes. Practice makes perfect.

Anoraks are a good compromise between bulk and versatility. Designed for all sorts of wet fun, anoraks are practical pullover type garments with a short zip opening, a hood and drawstrings at the waist.

Cagoules are longer than anoraks, perfect for any activity from adventure sports to pool training. Some have a large front pocket which is useful when travelling, or to keep locker keys and money when you go swimming.

Ponchos are really "cool" now, especially for men. A few influential designers send a quirky and practical article of clothing down the runway, high-fashion magazines enthusiastically push it, a celebrity is photographed wearing it, and whoosh, a new controversial trend is born. There is often some confusion about the difference between rain capes and ponchos. We intend to clarify this here.

Spray Suits

A spray suit is a lightweight waterproof and wind proof garment that is worn as an outer layer. These greatly reduce wind chill and keep the wearer dry so increasing the range of weather conditions for which an individual wetsuit would be suitable. Spray suits are often made from lightweight durable PU coated nylon fabric, or a more expensive breathable fabric. Some have a two way front zip for easy access. Reinforced knee pads and seat provide added durability.

Pants

Combined with matching rain pants, anoraks make a quick drying swimsuit that is lightweight and keeps the windchill off you when you're hopping in and out of the water all the time. They should be unlined and with an adjustable drawstring to keep them in place when you go swimming.

Pants often feature open bottom hem with zippers at ankle for easy on and off. Available with either elastic or zipper leg, the pants should have a full athletic cut. Side pockets should have a zip so your small bits stay in, like keys or money.

A while ago our editorial team wanted to find out how waterproof are "waterproof" clothes in a real downpour. For the purpose of this test we've asked our poncho enthusiast Ooli to step into the shower in a white poncho. He wore jeans and a thin hoodie to make leaks more visible. Needless to say he got completely soaked in the end, but he enjoyed this a lot as you can see form the photos. So get ready for some interesting fun.

Our Amphibian Quest

For years we've searched for the optimal amphibian outfit which allows you to jump in and out of the water all day and yet be comfortable. You basically become like an amphibian, existing in a world that sways between dry air and wet adventure. The preferred approach is to be able to go from dry land into water and back to dry land wearing the same clothes.

Breathable splash suits come close to this ideal and provide a comfy outer layer. They can be worn all day long, in and out of the water. Wear quick drying clothes underneath on cooler days.

Aquatic Activewear should:

1. dry quickly
2. provide sun protection
3. feel good both wet and dry
4. be windproof and breathable
5. be comfortable in hot climates
6. keep you warm in cold climates
7. be practical for travelling and swimming
8. look good everywhere

   No outfit can do all of that, but you can easily adjust it by layering several amphibian clothes, which can make the difference. Choosing the right clothes enhances your comfort, allows you to stay in or on the water for longer and keeps you ready for more fun. Try your kit before you venture out for any aquatic activity.

Function

This lightweight outer clothing layer keeps you warm but not necessarily dry. You may get wet from sweat condensation during vigorous exercise or if you've been in the water. It keeps the wind off your body and reduces cooling from evaporation when you're wet.

The argument usually goes something like this:

1. If it is warm and raining, just get wet.
   

2. If it is cold and raining, put on your rain clothes. You'll get wet from the sweat, but you'll be warm.

Running along the road or trail in the rain, you'll feel like you're a kid again, ready to jump into every puddle you see. Instead of dreading wet weather, you'll appreciate the variety it brings to your adventures. In any case, carry some spare dry clothes for later.

Practical Considerations

First, whatever the material, we have a strong preference for the anorak style rainwear over the jacket/parka style. They weigh less and often have a useful pocket on the front.

Jackets and the longer parkas have a full length zip for easier ventilation, but that adds a bit of bulk on the front, especially when sitting down.

Second, look at the weight. Many people seem to prefer a light coated nylon jacket for the warmer months. Others have been hiking in an uncoated anorak-style wind shell all autumn and winter, adjusting their insulation layer for the change in temperature. Wear a warm hat and gloves on colder days.

Quality waterproof tops and pants coupled with a layering system are the most effective. Under-layers should be quick drying and keep you warm even when wet such as thermals or fleece.

Overalls are best for fast moving activities like sailing, coasteering, or adventure swimming. Their one piece design is less bulky and stays put as you move about. Anoraks and jackets may float up when you jump into the water.

The Chimney Effect on Cold Days

Most rain gear is coated on the inner surface of the outer fabric to block wind and water. Warmth is lost if they’re open at the bottom and top so air can flow up, like in a chimney. Warm humid air rises out of the upper openings and is replaced with cold dry air from below.

It’s obvious that heat is lost warming that cold air. Not so obvious is that the relative humidity of that air when warmed is extremely low. It DRIES your skin, dehydrates you, and takes away heat by evaporation. Drink plenty of water

Now that you've poured over our waterwear advice, put some on and have fun in the water!

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