Advertisement
When temperatures start to dip, you’ll need the right gear to extend your boating season safely and comfortably.
Photo: Getty Images
Gill Offshore Hat 2.0
This hat may look superfluous, but covering up your head, ears, and cheeks is one of the best ways to keep your whole body warm. Hoods are OK, but they don’t provide much warmth and tend to fly off in a breeze. Beanies are warm but rarely waterproof. The Offshore Hat 2.0 is the best of both worlds: It’s waterproof and lined with recycled fleece. The brim keeps rain away from your face while the adjustable strap keeps the hat firmly in place. $44.95 | gillmarine.com
Smartwool Hunt
Classic Edition Tall Crew Socks These crew-height, medium-padded socks have a secret weapon: They’re made from merino wool. Merino is the best material for cold and wet environments – aside from perhaps a few high-tech synthetics – because it retains heat even when wet, breathes and wicks sweat, and doesn’t itch like regular wool. Merino has been a favorite of hikers, hunters, and winter sports enthusiasts for decades. $23 | smartwool.com
Helly Hansen Crew Jacket 2.0
Helly Hansen’s original Crew Jacket was a mainstay of the company’s product line for years until it recently introduced an updated version. The Crew 2.0 is a lightweight and breathable waterproof windbreaker like its predecessor but with better articulation, making the jacket feel less constrictive. The hood, which can be rolled up into the collar when not in use, provides more face coverage, and the collar rises higher for better protection. $175 | hellyhansen.com
Showa Atlas 460 Insulated Gloves
Need to haul an anchor out of frigid water or grip a cold helm for several hours? These heavy-duty gloves are up to the task. The PVC coating makes them waterproof (as well as oil- and chemical-resistant) while the acrylic lining provides superior warmth. The hand is textured for better gripping, and the company says they’ll remain flexible to -4 F. Even if you have a favorite pair of fair weather gloves, keep these around as a backup. $15.05–$16.13/pair | fisheriessupply.com and other retailers
Grundens Deck Boss Ankle Boot
Pair those merino socks with an ankle-height deck boot from Grundens. The ankle height provides the grip, warmth, and waterproofness offered by traditional foul-weather boots without the weight and hassle of over-the-calf gear, and are tailor-made for moderate weather conditions. As a safety bonus, they’re easy to kick off if you fall overboard. All come with nonmarking soles and two pull straps. $109.99 | grundens.com