Whether you're charging through ocean swells, training for peak performance, or simply chasing the calm of a weekend escape, paddling demands the right gear. The combination of sun, water, wind, and ever-changing conditions makes dressing for paddling more than just a matter of comfort, it’s about performance, protection, and confidence.
At Zhik, we design gear that pushes the limits, but we know that not every session is about racing or going full throttle. Sometimes it’s about flow, balance, and freedom. So, whether you're a competitive athlete or a recreational explorer, here’s what you need to wear when heading out on the water.
Sun Protection: The First Layer of Defence
The sun is one of the most consistent forces on the water. Its reflection off the surface increases UV exposure, making effective sun protection essential even on overcast days. Lightweight and breathable sun protection is your first defence and this is why Zhik’s uv protective clothing is tested and certified to ensure high quality sun protection, even when wet.
Zhik’s Eco Spandex LT Tops offers certified UPF50+ sun protection in a flexible, environmentally conscious fabric made from recycled nylon. Available in a range of cuts, including long sleeve, short sleeve, and race singlets, these tops are quick-drying, ultra-light, and built for high-output paddling where mobility is key. They’ve been specifically designed with 4-way stretch for unrestricted movement and 3D body-mapped shaping to enhance fit and comfort. They’re ideal for warm-weather sessions when staying cool and covered is the goal.
For your lower half, Performance Paddle Shorts provide excellent coverage and come in both padded and non-padded versions. The padded option is especially helpful for longer sessions or more rugged conditions where comfort in the seat area becomes essential. Designed for performance and comfort, these shorts feature 4-way stretch fabrics for unrestricted movement and are constructed with exceptional breathability to help regulate temperature during high-output sessions. Reduced seams and tactical seam placement help minimise any risk of chafing, while anti-rash stitching ensures a smooth, irritation-free finish, no matter how long you're on the water.
Warmth: Layer Up to Stay Out Longer
Even in mild conditions, wind and water can cool your body quickly. Maintaining your core temperature is critical—not just for comfort, but also for sustaining performance and preventing fatigue.
Start with the Active Baselayer, which delivers lightweight thermal warmth and breathability. Made from 100% recycled polyester, this eco-conscious layer is designed for performance and sustainability. It features moisture-wicking and quick-dry properties to keep you dry and insulated, even during high-output efforts. Mesh side panels enhance breathability in high-heat areas, while the soft knit finish ensures a comfortable next-to-skin feel for all-day wear. This pairs well underneath the Eco Spandex LT tops to ensure certified UV protection and added warmth, making it an ideal combination for variable weather conditions on the water.
For extra insulation, especially in cooler conditions or early mornings, add a layer of Hydrophobic Fleece. This mid-layer combines warmth with water-resistance and retains heat even when damp, making it ideal for paddling in changing conditions. The soft thermal inner fleece is made from plush spandex fabric for added comfort against the skin, while the water-repellent outer material helps shield against splashes and light rain. It’s a reliable option for maintaining warmth without sacrificing mobility or breathability.
Lower body options like the Microfleece Padded Paddle Pants take thermal protection to the next level. Built with 1mm dynamic stretch microfleece neoprene, these pants deliver warmth, flexibility, and comfort. The ergonomic design features a high back and low front tailored for seated water sports, while 3D body panelling ensures a contoured fit. Key seam placement and anti-rash flatlock stitching reduce chafing for long sessions. 5mm perforated neoprene panels in the lower legs allow for efficient drainage, and a low-profile waistband with smooth skin lining provides a secure, comfortable hold. Inside, a fast-drying fleece lining adds softness next to the skin, making these pants a trusted choice for cold climates or extended paddling in unpredictable weather.
For those looking for even greater warmth and water compatibility in variable conditions, Zhik’s Microfleece and Superwarm Wetsuit Tops and Bottoms are versatile and high-performance options. The Microfleece range is made with 1mm dynamic stretch neoprene, lined with soft, fast-drying fleece to retain heat while maintaining excellent mobility. These garments feature a slim profile, making them ideal to wear on their own or under outer layers—perfect for cold starts, open water sessions, or extended periods in and out of the water.
For colder climates or those seeking maximum insulation, the Superwarm range delivers even greater thermal performance with additional neoprene thickness and plush inner lining. Designed for advanced warmth and flexibility, Superwarm tops and pants provide a secure and comfortable fit while ensuring you stay warm through challenging conditions. Whether you're pushing performance in winter water or layering up for extended paddling adventures, Microfleece and Superwarm options help you stay warm without sacrificing movement.
Wind and Waterproof Layers: Protection When Conditions Shift
Even the most tranquil paddling session can turn windy or wet without warning. That’s where your outer layer becomes vital. A good outer shell shields you from windchill and spray while remaining highly breathable, helping to regulate your temperature and prevent overheating during exertion. Breathability is just as important as waterproofing when you're working hard on the water, staying dry on both the inside and out is key to comfort and performance.
When the weather gets more extreme the Performance Smock provides the protection. It is a breathable shell designed specifically for high-output activities like paddling. Constructed with 3-layer Vecta™ fabric, it delivers breathable and waterproof protection while maintaining a low-profile fit that supports unrestricted movement. A Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating enhances both breathability and resistance to water, while PU seals at the neck, wrists, and waist effectively block out spray and prevent water flushing. Whether you're charging through chop or dealing with unpredictable winds, this smock is engineered to keep you dry, comfortable, and performing at your best.
For paddlers operating in cold water or extreme conditions like long crossings, alpine lakes, or coastal touring, the Drysuit is the ultimate outerwear. Designed for elite-level performance, it features a market-leading 3-layer microporous fabric that delivers 20K waterproofing and 6K breathability, ensuring maximum protection and comfort. The YKK® Aquaguard® zipper provides best-in-class waterproof sealing, while high-stretch Yamamoto neoprene at the neck and wrists offers a soft, comfortable fit and reliable seal against water ingress. Reinforced Cordura® panels at the seat and knees add durability where it’s needed most, and the suit’s seam construction is purposefully engineered with minimal seams and strategic placement to reduce potential leaks and maximise longevity. With its lightweight feel and technical detailing, the Drysuit keeps you dry, warm, and moving freely, no matter how extreme the conditions.
Footwear: Grip, Comfort and Protection
Your feet are your key connection to your craft. Good footwear can make the difference between secure and insecure footing and an unexpected slip, especially when applying force during your leg drive, remounting or when entering and exiting your craft. Footwear also plays a key role in protecting against sharp surfaces, hot sand, and cold water, helping prevent injury and maintain comfort. In cooler conditions, the right footwear adds essential thermal insulation to help retain body heat, keeping your feet warm, supported, and ready for action.
For warm climates or minimalist paddlers, Superthin Booties offer barefoot-like flexibility with strong grip and are designed to feel like a second skin. Made with a thin, durable rubber sole, they deliver excellent board feel and traction without adding bulk. The low-profile design supports agile movement and natural foot articulation, making them ideal for paddleboards, kayaks, or any activity where balance and sensitivity are key. Despite their minimalist look, the booties feature secure ankle closures and fast-draining construction to keep feet light and comfortable. Lightweight, packable, and quick-drying, Superthin Booties are the go-to choice for warm-water paddling.
When more protection is needed—such as rocky shorelines, colder conditions, or aggressive kayaking—the Low Cut Sailing Boot delivers the performance you need. Built with a durable 3mm neoprene upper and reinforced panels at the heel and forefoot, this boot offers exceptional grip, impact protection, and long-lasting durability. A secure, low-cut design with ankle support allows for freedom of movement without sacrificing stability, making them a reliable choice in rougher conditions or colder climates. These boots are fast-draining, hard-wearing, and ready for high-performance paddling.
Safety: High Visibility and Essential Flotation
Regardless of skill level or water type, one piece of kit is non-negotiable, your PFD (Personal Flotation Device). Safety should never be an afterthought. Zhik’s Breathable PFD and Active PFDs are engineered for high-performance paddling, offering unrestricted movement, quick-drying construction, and a slimline profile that stays out of the way when you’re moving fast. It’s designed to stay snug and secure, so it won’t shift while you’re navigating tricky waters or making powerful paddle strokes.
In addition to flotation, visibility is another key safety feature. Zhik’s gear incorporates high-vis colourways and reflective detailing to ensure you stand out on the water, especially useful in low-light or high-traffic areas.
Paddling pushes you through extremes, it’s where technical performance meets freedom. The right gear doesn’t just keep up; it enhances every movement, protects when it matters, and lets you stay fully locked into the moment. That’s why at Zhik, we design gear that performs in sync with your activity. At Zhik, we believe that gear should never hold you back. Whether you’re chasing seconds on a racecourse or exploring on a weekend escape, we make performance-driven paddling apparel that’s built for your kind of water. So next time you prep for the water, choose gear that’s engineered for your environment.
