UV protection

Can I get some feedback regarding UV protection clothing , particularly the legs. What"s cool and what"s not? Living in Sydney Australia the cold isn"t really an issue but the sun certainly is. Are "Shark Skins" cool are bike pants (lycra) the go? I hope to hear some inovative comments.
Happy sailing
Davew

Rashguards (aka "rashees", swim tights) are effective as they are UV resistant when wet. I've never tried Sharkskins, but I imagine they could get a bit hot in summer.
http://www.cwear.com.au/p/571203/black- ... ghts-.html

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rashguards for chest and arms and paddling trunks with SPF in the fabric. Paddling trunks are longer shorts almost like capris so more of the leg is protected. Kokatat and others make them. 50 block sunscreen spray. a Tilley hat.

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2010 Hibiscus Adventure Island

Dave,
My favourite kayaking clothes are made by Columbia.
http://www.columbia.com.au/products/men ... &catID=191
The Silver Ridge convertible pants are very versatile. You can start out in shorts (great for launching) and then when the UV gets high zip the legs on. They are very quick drying.


I also use the shirt which offers great ventilation but still has sun protection.


Fishing shirts are also effective. You can get them from BCF or Kathmandu.
I use trekking socks from Kathmandu that are made from activent which is also very quick drying. In Winter I wear Sealskinz waterproof socks over the activent socks. You can step in water with this combination and your feet remain dry and comfortable. Much better for all day wear than wetsuit booties.
Just make sure there is no cotton in any of your clothes. It takes far too long to dry.

Hmmm, Sydney eh...
Welcome to the forum btw.

I've got sharkskins. Very warm and don't let the wind through. I can tell you they are pretty warm in the sun. The last trip we did to Brisbane water I wore the vest and pants. Ended up having to take the vest off as it was a tad too warm. However the experts tell us to dress for the water not just the air. So even if it's a tad warm, look at the water temp too.

There are supposed to be a cheaper brand available now too.

Where abouts in Sydney are you planning to sail out of?

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Thanks for the responses all good info. I'll launch from Lane Cove River most times and travel all over the rivers and harbour. We can hoof up some time.

Davew

Davew,

I've been considering the purchase of the Sharkskin paddling pants but ran into a sale of UnderAmour running pants. Very comfortable in Hawaiian conditions but not sure if it'll be enough insulation for colder conditions. Decided to go with a skin tight option just in case I needed to swim in them. Good luck on your search.

cliffs2yak