Kayaking is a fun way to adventure in Florida, thanks to the state’s abundant waterways, diverse marine life, and beautiful scenery.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a beginner, you must dress appropriately for the conditions you’ll encounter. Having the right gear is vital to have fun while ensuring you stay safe.
Having kayaked since I was young and having been to Florida, I have found that the items discussed here are crucial for your kayaking trip.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best clothing options for kayaking in Florida, including suitable footwear, protective gear, and essential accessories.
What This Article Will Cover:
- Clothing for Kayaking in Florida
- Footwear for Kayaking in Florida
- Protective Gear for Kayaking in Florida
- Essential Accessories for Kayaking in Florida
- Frequently Asked Questions
Must-Have Items To Wear When Kayaking In Florida:
- Quick-drying clothing.
- Rash guards or sun shirts.
- Waterproof layers.
- Water shoes or sandals.
- Life jackets.
- Sunglasses.
- A hat.
- A dry bag.
- Sunscreen and other sun protection.
Clothing for Kayaking in Florida

When choosing to clothe for your kayaking trip in Florida, you should prepare yourself based on the expected weather, the amount of sun you’ll be exposed to, and the conditions out on the water.
The following clothing items are essential for a comfortable and safe kayaking experience:
Quick-Drying Clothing
Wearing quick-drying clothing is key when kayaking in Florida’s warm and humid climate. Opt for lightweight, breathable materials such as nylon or polyester that wick moisture away from your skin and dry quickly.
Avoid cotton, which retains moisture and can leave you feeling clammy and uncomfortable.
As a bonus, aim to find shirts that are UV resistant to help keep you dry and warm while also protecting you from sunburns or heatstroke.
Rash Guards and Sun Shirts
Rash guards and sun shirts are items worth considering for kayaking in Florida’s sunny climate.
These shirts are designed to provide sun protection and prevent chafing from your life jacket or seat, which can become a major annoyance if not prevented with the proper gear.
Look for shirts with a UPF rating of 50+ for maximum sun protection and soft, comfortable materials that do not irritate your skin.
Waterproof Layers
Sometimes in Florida, heavy rains can come out of nowhere.
Prepare with waterproof clothing, such as a lightweight rain jacket or poncho.
Packing a small waterproof layer is smart even if the weather forecast shows clear skies.
If rain comes at you out of nowhere, you’ll be prepared and won’t get soaked!

Footwear for Kayaking in Florida
Once you’ve got some good outer layers to keep you dry and protected from the sun, picking the proper footwear can also help make your Florida kayaking trip more enjoyable.
Here are some options to consider:
Water Shoes
Water shoes are popular for kayaking in Florida as they offer protection and traction in wet conditions.
These are made of water-resistant materials similar to wetsuits, helping to keep your feet warm and protected in case you end up in the water.
Look for shoes with a non-slip sole and a secure fit to prevent blisters and injuries, and make sure they’re durable in case a fish tries to bite your toes!
Sandals
Sandals with a strap or a closed-toe design are also suitable for kayaking in Florida. However, they are inferior to water shoes.
Avoid picking flip-flops, as these can quickly come off your feet and get lost in the water. Plus, if you’ve ever walked in water with flip-flops, you know how they slow down your movements due to the drag effect of the water.
Protective Gear for Kayaking in Florida
Most important on this list is protective equipment for kayaking.
No matter how good you are at swimming, you must bring protective gear so you and your friends or family can have fun and make it home safely after kayaking in Florida.
The following items will help keep you safe on the water:
Life Jacket
A properly fitting life jacket is a must-have for kayaking in Florida. If you accidentally fall in the water or become unconscious, an approved life vest can save your life.
Sadly, I know people who have gone kayaking or paddleboarding and never returned because they got caught in a current they could not swim out of. They would still be with us if they wore a life jacket.
Look for a Coast Guard-approved jacket that fits snugly without restricting your movement, and you’ll be adequately prepared to kayak in Florida.
Sun Protection
Florida’s sunny climate can be harsh on your skin, so protecting yourself from harmful UV rays is essential.
Wear a hat with a large brim to shield your face and neck, and apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Make sure to reapply sunscreen regularly, and avoid getting wet until the sunscreen has settled onto your skin.
If you burn easily, combine high SPF sunscreen with UV-resistant clothes and a large hat for the best protection.
Essential Accessories for Kayaking in Florida
The right accessories can make your kayaking experience in Florida even more enjoyable.
Here are some items to consider:
Dry Bag
A dry bag is convenient if you want to bring your phone, a camera, or other items that can get damaged by the water.
A dry bag will keep your belongings dry and secure while kayaking, so you can have fun and not worry about your stuff.
Look for a bag with a roll-top closure and waterproof material that is large enough to fit the items you intend to bring.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses with polarized lenses will reduce glare and improve visibility on the water, so you can navigate the seven seas and enjoy the beautiful views.
To prevent your glasses from falling off in the water, you can pick up a strap or sunglasses leash to ensure they stay on your head even when things get wily on the water.
FAQs
Do I need to wear a wetsuit when kayaking in Florida?
It depends on the water temperature. In colder months, a wetsuit can provide warmth and protection from hypothermia. In warmer months, quick-drying clothing should suffice.
Can I wear regular shoes for kayaking in Florida?
It’s not recommended to wear regular shoes for kayaking as they can become heavy and uncomfortable when wet. Plus, the salt water can damage your shoes.
Water shoes or sandals with a secure fit are the best options for kayaking in Florida to protect your feet and keep them warm.
Is it necessary to wear a life jacket when kayaking in Florida?
Yes, wearing a properly fitting life jacket is essential for safety when kayaking in Florida.
It’s required by law to have a life jacket on board for each person in the kayak, and having a life jacket on hand can save your life.
Even if you are a great swimmer, you should wear a life jacket when you kayak in Florida.
Conclusion
Kayaking in Florida is a fantastic way to explore beautiful waterways and marine life while feeling free upon the seas.
To ensure a safe and comfortable experience, wearing appropriate clothing and protective gear is essential.
Quick-drying clothing, water shoes or sandals, and a properly fitting life jacket are crucial for kayaking in Florida.
Don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays with a hat, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses. Following these guidelines will prepare you for a memorable and enjoyable kayaking adventure in Florida.