Sailing without a wetsuit- waterproofs?

   I agree with Whinging It - check the weather.  I am often amazed how many people on  astinking hot day, F2 wind, and not a cloud in the sky still insist on wearing a wet suit - uncomfortable, pointless, but for some reason the 'expected' kit for sailing, in all conditions. 
I hate them, and don't own a proper wetsuit myself - I normally only wear wetsuit legs, as that seems the be what hikers are made in, then several tops, depending on the weather, and a semi-dry top.  If it getting cold, I much prefer a dry suit.  I a good day, just a pair of Rooster hiking shorts and a t-shirt is perfect.

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Stargazey Send Private Message Find Member's Posts Visit Member's Homepage Groupie Joined: 15 May 10 Online Status: Offline Posts: 45	Post Options Post Reply Quote Stargazey Report Post Quote Reply Topic: Sailing without a wetsuit- waterproofs? Posted: 20 Sep 11 at 8:59pm
	I agree with Whinging It - check the weather. I am often amazed how many people on astinking hot day, F2 wind, and not a cloud in the sky still insist on wearing a wet suit - uncomfortable, pointless, but for some reason the 'expected' kit for sailing, in all conditions. I hate them, and don't own a proper wetsuit myself - I normally only wear wetsuit legs, as that seems the be what hikers are made in, then several tops, depending on the weather, and a semi-dry top. If it getting cold, I much prefer a dry suit. I a good day, just a pair of Rooster hiking shorts and a t-shirt is perfect.

piccolo Send Private Message Find Member's Posts Newbie Joined: 10 Sep 11 Location: Midlands Online Status: Offline Posts: 6	Post Options Post Reply Quote piccolo Report Post Quote Reply Posted: 20 Sep 11 at 9:26pm
	Hi guys, thankyou for all the information and experiences! I did the course, completing my youth log book; finally! (out of topic, but what would be the next step? I think i remember somewhere that 2 seasons worth of experience was needed for seamanship?) I actually got loaned a shortie (by a members daughter), which i'm thankful to say did not get properally wet! I think i pretty much know the capsize drill by now! It was a small ish lake, so i could of gone in quickly if i did get that cold anyway, a contrast to my old place where it took ages to get back in plus you had to heave it up a steep+ long launch if you wanted to leave it for any time! Was actually glad of my new gloves, my hands can really suffer from the cold when i sail, but this time they were fine! :) I will be getting a wetsuit, it's just the option of saving pennies for the actual courses right now etc (as well as another hobby). Stargazey, yes, i suppose that's ideal if you've got all the kit. However, unless in extreams, me thinks i'd rather be slighly hot than too cold, so will only be buying a wetsuit to cover for most seasons, apart from shorts in mid summer etc and spray top when slightly colder.