Cold Weather Sailing :: Catamaran Sailboats at TheBeachcats.com

Cold Weather Sailing

yurdle

Rank: Mate

Registered: Aug 22, 2007

Last visit: Jan 07, 2015

Posts: 742
Posted: Nov 01, 2009 - 01:09 PM

I'm in Oklahoma, and we get enough warm weather that cats aren't sailing once it gets cold. I had a short season this year, though, and would like to sail some in the colder weather. I'm looking for some tips from you cold weather guys. What gear do you wear/use to survive the cold air and water? Any tips at all are appreciated. I don't think my shorty/raincoat combo will get the job done at this point.

Thanks

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Rob
OKC
Pile of Nacra parts..
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erice

Rank: Mate

Registered: Feb 19, 2008

Last visit: Aug 26, 2023

Posts: 671
Posted: Nov 02, 2009 - 07:59 AM

for reasonably cold

2mm neoprene, ankle to wrist surfers wetsuit with a spray jacket on top and a hat of some sort

2mm neoprene sailing boots and gloves

i don't sail in temps colder than that but those that need better gear than that start using dry-suits
smfinley

Rank: Mate

Registered: Apr 24, 2005

Last visit: Apr 18, 2023

Posts: 709
Posted: Nov 02, 2009 - 08:21 AM

I use a 2mm farmer john suit (long legs, no arms) with a good spray top, and 3mm booties. I use them when conditions for flipping are very unlikely and when the water is moderate with cool air temps. I also have a full length 3mm suit I will wear with my spray top if there is concern of going in the water, or as the water temp gets colder.

I like the farmer john since it isn't tight around your neck or constrict your arms. I find myself wearing it on cool days in the summer on Lake Michigan I would never wear my full length because of comfort.

I agree with Eric, beyond that I would recommend a dry-suit.

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Scott,
‘92 H18 w/SX wings
‘95 Hobie Funseeker 12 (Holder 12)
‘96/‘01/‘14 Hobie Waves
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