What To Wear White Water Rafting: Beginners Must Haves Items

Last Updated on July 31, 2023

Whitewater rafting is one of the most exciting outdoor activities you can do. It’s also one of the most dangerous. So which safety item or what to wear on white water rafting? Don’t let that stop you from enjoying the thrill of the ride! One important thing to remember when whitewater rafting is what to wear.

Proper clothing can make all the difference in whether you have a good or bad time. In this blog post, we will explore what to wear white water rafting so that you can have the best experience possible.

What to Wear Whitewater Rafting for your safety!

When whitewater rafting, you’ll want to wear clothes that can get wet and protect you from the sun. Wear a swimsuit or quick-dry shorts and a T-shirt. You may also want to wear a rash guard or wetsuit top for added sun protection. Remember to pack a pair of river shoes or sandals that can get wet.

Whitewater Rafting Clothing Basics

Whitewater rafting is an adventurous activity that people of all ages can enjoy. While moderately strenuous, participants must be outfitted appropriately to ensure safety and comfort. Here are some basics to keep in mind when selecting whitewater rafting clothing:

Dress in layers: Wearing multiple layers of clothing will help you regulate your body temperature as the day progresses and the conditions on the river change.

Choose quick-drying fabrics: You will likely get wet while whitewater rafting, so wearing clothes made from quick-drying materials like polyester or nylon is essential.

Wear comfortable shoes: Secure, closed-toe shoes are essential for whitewater rafting. They should have good traction to prevent slipping on wet or slimy surfaces.

Protect your skin: Remember to apply sunscreen and wear a hat or other protective gear to shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

What to Wear for a Commercial Rafting Trip

When you go commercial rafting, you will be given a wet suit to wear. This keeps you warm in the water and protects you from the sun. You will also be given a life jacket and a helmet. Make sure you put on sunscreen before you get on the raft.

Additional Items to Bring on Your Paddling Trip

1. A change of clothes: You’ll want clean, dry clothes after your rafting trip.
2.  A towel: You’ll want to bring a towel to dry off after you get out of the river.
3.  Sunscreen: Remember to apply sunscreen before you head out on the water!
4.  Hat: A hat will help keep the sun out of your eyes while paddling.
5.  Water bottle: Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle throughout the day.

What to Wear Cold Weather River Rafting

Whitewater rafting is an exciting experience, but it can also be chilly – especially if you’re unprepared. So, what should you wear on cold-weather river rafting?

First and foremost, you’ll want to dress in layers. Wear a synthetic base layer (such as polyester or wool) next to your skin to help wick away sweat and keep you warm. On top of that, add a fleece or wool mid-layer for insulation. And finally, top it off with a waterproof outer layer to protect you from the elements.

Remember to dress your feet appropriately, too! Wear wool socks that will keep your feet warm and dry, and consider wearing water shoes or wetsuit booties for added protection.

Finally, make sure to bring along a hat and gloves to keep your head and hands warm. A white water rafting trip is an adventure you’ll never forget – so make sure you’re prepared for the cold!

What to Wear White Water Rafting in Summer

Assuming you’re rafting in the northern hemisphere, late spring through early fall is the best time to go whitewater rafting. The water is warmer, and the days are longer, giving you more time to enjoy the experience. But what should you wear?

Swimming trunks, shorts, and a rash guard top are good options for men. You want to be able to move freely, stay calm, and be protected from the sun and any possible scrapes or scratches.

Women can wear a bikini or tankini top with swim bottoms. Again, you want something that will keep you cool, allow you to move quickly, and provide sun protection.

Both men and women should wear shoes that can get wet and provide good traction. Water shoes or sandals with a grippy sole are ideal. And remember a hat to protect your head from the sun!

What to Wear White Water Rafting in Fall (or Spring)

Assuming you’re whitewater rafting in the Northern Hemisphere, the weather in fall (autumn) and spring can vary greatly. You’ll generally dress in layers that you can easily add or remove.

A wetsuit is always a good idea, as it will keep you warm even when wet. A spray jacket is also a good idea, as it will help protect you from the elements and keep you dry.

If it’s cold out, wear a hat and gloves. A scarf can also be helpful. If it’s sunny, don’t forget your sunscreen! And if it’s windy, a windbreaker or other outer layer will help keep you comfortable.

Of course, your footwear is also important. River shoes or sandals with a strap are ideal, as they’ll stay on your feet and provide good traction. Avoid open-toed shoes, as they offer little protection from the elements or bumps and scrapes.

What NOT to Wear White Water Rafting?

Now you know what to wear for white water rafting. Let’s discuss how wearing the wrong clothing while whitewater rafting can be uncomfortable and dangerous. Here are some clothing items that you should avoid wearing while whitewater rafting:

Jeans or other heavy denim clothing. Denim is a heavy fabric that can absorb much water and become very heavy, making it challenging to swim if you fall out of the raft.

Avoid Cotton shirts or other loose-fitting clothing. Cotton is another fabric that absorbs water and can become very heavy, making swimming challenging if you fall out of the raft.

Sweatshirts or hoodies. Sweatshirts and hoodies can also absorb a lot of water and become very heavy, making them challenging to swim in if you fall out of the raft.

Shoes with metal cleats or spikes. Many of us think that sports like tennis Shoes are best for White Water Rafting. But metal cleats or spikes can damage the bottom of the raft and cause punctures, which can result in leaks.

What to Bring White Water Rafting

Wearing the right gear while whitewater rafting is important to stay safe and comfortable. You will want to dress appropriately depending on the time of year and the water temperature. Generally, it is best to wear quick-drying synthetic materials that keep you warm when wet.

Footwear: Wear shoes that can get wet and will stay on your feet in case you have to get out of the raft. Many people prefer river sandals or shoes with a strap over the ankle.

Paddle Jacket: If it is cold or windy, you should bring a paddle jacket to wear while paddling. This will help keep you dry and warm.

Wetsuit: In colder water, a wetsuit can provide extra warmth. A wetsuit also protects you if you fall out of the raft.

Life Jacket: Everyone on the raft must always wear a life jacket. Make sure your life jacket fits properly and is comfortable to wear.

Final Thoughts on Clothing for Rafting Trips

As you can see, there is much to consider when choosing what to wear for white water rafting. The most important thing is to dress for the water temperature and wear clothing that protects you from the sun.

In addition, choosing shoes that will stay on your feet and won’t get in the way of your paddling is essential. Finally, remember to pack extra clothes if you get wet or cold.

With all of this in mind, here are some final thoughts on clothing for rafting trips:

Wear shorts or a swimsuit if the water is warm enough. If not, opt for quick-drying pants or wetsuit pants.

Wear a rashguard or swim shirt to protect your skin from the sun and abrasion if you fall out of the raft.

Choose shoes that will stay on your feet and provide good traction. Flip-flops are generally not a good idea.

Bring extra clothes if you get wet or cold, and pack them in waterproof dry bags.