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Mar 31, 2024

NAVIS Magazine Best Winter Yachting Apparel

When it comes to the world of yacht sailing, it is important to be well-prepared for all eventualities. That means having the right gear on board to deal with whatever the weather may throw at you.

When it comes to the world of yacht sailing, it is important to be well-prepared for all eventualities. That means having the right gear on board to deal with whatever the weather may throw at you. Fortunately, there are some great options on the market for those looking for the best yachting apparel to keep them dry and comfortable when faced with challenging weather conditions. We will take a look at some of the best sailing wear products to keep an eye out for in 2023.

Constructed from environmentally responsible material, the H2Flow jacket is designed to keep sailors comfortable regardless of weather conditions. The performance sailing jacket uses HellyTech technology combined with a temperature-regulating system to trap heat or release it as needed. The protective and flexible adaptability maintains comfort through changing conditions and activity levels, and the jacket is made from more than 50% recycled materials.

Available for both men and women, the Fleece Block Jacket is an attractive and versatile mid-layer garment. Made from 100% recycled material, this cozy, thick pile jacket will deliver extra warmth when needed. Stylish enough to be worn ashore will deliver enough protection while hiking or trekking.

Responsibly sourced lambswool and classic pattern make this the ideal cool weather sweater for wearing aboard on bright, pleasant days or to use as a casual outer layer when going ashore. Handy sleeve thumbholes keep hands warm and protected, and a high ribbed zip collar keeps cool winds and breezes at bay.

Perfect for transitional seasons and light enough to be packed away in a sailing backpack or duffel back, this light-down-filled jacket is warm and versatile. With an insulated interior made from responsibly sourced duck down and feathers, the ripstop fabric is completely water-repellant.

This half-zip base layer for men and women is ideal for all cold-weather activities. The 2-layer construction and stay warm moisture management material ensures both dryness and breathability.

Comfortable to wear and with a fit that stays close to the skin, the Merino wool and non-itch fabric promise maximum comfort and flexibility while at sea.

Perfect for life at sea, the Gill OS2 is a fully sustainable jacket ideal for all sailing weather and conditions. As one of Gill’s most popular sailing items for offshore sailing, it is constructed from revolutionary and proprietary material made from 98% recycled plastic. Taped seams, thermal inner, and hi-vis hood make the jacket perfect for rough weather sailing. Deep hand-warmer pockets, a 2-way storm guard-protected zipper, and internal security pockets protect against rain and spray.

Available for both men and women, the lightweight Portland jacket features a water-repellent finish and is fully insulated. Versatile enough to be worn independently or as a waterproof base layer. Available in black and navy colors, the jacket can be worn for onshore strolls or on pleasant sailing days and will protect from light rain and spray. For easy storage, it can be folded away into its own internal pocket to take up minimal room in your sailing duffel.

Step ashore in style with a Cromarty Fleece made from high-loft thermal fabric. Stretch binding at the collar and cuffs will protect from cool winds and sea breezes, and a mesh drop lining provides comfort and breathability. Store essential items in the handy zippered chest pocket and keep the fit snug and secure using the adjustable hem.

Made from PVC tarpaulin fabric, this durable and puncture-free duffel bag will keep all of your personal items dry and protected. Includes a roll-down closure, taped seams, and velcro fastenings to create a watertight seal. Store and retrieve gear easily using the wide mouth opening and use the 6 D-ring attachment points to safely secure the bag. Reinforced grab handles and padded detachable shoulder strap make for easy carrying and transportation.

SunGod sailing sunglasses are designed to be comfortable and practical for all types of sailors, from racing yachtsmen to cruisers. The SunGod Sailing range has been developed in consultation with world-renowned Great Britain Sail GP Team. Using the latest in cutting-edge eyewear technology, the SunGod Sailing range is designed to meet the needs of sailors at all levels.

The new sailing sunglasses are available in two styles: the Great Britain Sail GP Team Sierras™ and the SunGod Sailing Sierras™. Both styles are available in a variety of different lens options to suit all conditions, from bright sun to low light. The Sierras™ have been created with SunGod’s legendary durability and lenses that offer 100% protection from UVA/UVB rays, making them the perfect choice for spending time on the water.

SunGod Glasses have been growing in interest as a brand in the sailing community. Sunglasses designed from recycled plastics and made with the collaboration of the British Sailing Team have created glasses with refined lenses and 8KO technology to allow sailors to see with clearer visibility. Ultra-flex frames and screwless hinges provide durability and protection, and frames are finished with an iconic brushed metal symbol.

This refined hooded coat is longer in length than most sailing jackets. Designed using Zhik’s rain and wind-repellent XWR fluoro-carbon-free water-shedding coating, it will keep sailors warm and dry in heavy weather conditions. Packed with features, the jacket uses fewer resources to reduce garment bulk and is made from 100% recycled material. Full insulation, gusseted wrist seals, and a cozy warm lining prevent heat escape and maintain warmth.

A cosy mid-layer jacket suitable for use both on and off the water, the Zhik Cell Insulated Jacket features a low-profile slim design perfect for use as a base layer or as a stand-alone garment. Fused core baffling covers synthetic thermal insulation fill that keeps weight and bulk to the minimum. The fleece-lined collar and pockets add warmth and comfort, while low moisture retention properties allow the jacket to dry quickly when exposed to moisture.

Made from Repreve, the world’s leading brand in recycled performance fibre, the Eco Spandex range features shorts, leggings, and a range of race vest tops. Items can be mixed and matched to suit current conditions and used as a base or stand-alone layer. The fabric is comfortable to wear, soft and cool to the touch, and made with 3D body mapping technology to enhance fit and moveability.

Sailing gloves with exceptional durability and a Gecko-style silicone palm pad. The gloves are designed for high-performance sailors and feature excellent abrasion-resistant properties and impact protection. 3D styling allows the best possible ergonomic fit, and a low profile wrist band gives the maximum wrist flexibility and widest range of movement possible. Reinforced Kevlar stitched seams, and perforated panels provide water protection and drainage.

A special mention goes to Zhik’s limited-edition pink breast cancer range. The selection of apparel offers Eco Spandex garments, caps, UV active tops, and beach towels. Team sailors wore the tops to October sailing events in support of the money-raising initiative. 10% of the sale of the pink clothing line will be donated to Breast Cancer Research to spread awareness of the importance of breast cancer research across the sailing community.

Providing exceptional freedom of movement and worn by Sam Davies in the Vendee Globe, the Musto Race jacket features waterproof engineering with reinforced seams and a Paclite hood system to improve comfort and reduce bulk from hood stowing. Photoluminescent reflectors are incorporated for safety, warmth is sustained by hand-warmer pockets, and protection is provided by the storm guard and waterproof double-sealed hood to keep unfavorable elements out.

A redesign of the Pro Race Sapolette features a slimmed-down design and improved ease of movement with a four-way stretch Cordura fabric. Reinforced knee pads keep the material damage free, and the durable qualities make this garment ideal for offshore racing. Large pockets offer easy access to essential items, and the hook and loop waist tab offers easy adjustment. Technical innovations from Musto, such as Gore-tex membranes and recycled fabric, combine to make comfortable and weather-resistant sailing.

Each one of these clothing brands has mastered the art of constructing sailing wear to deliver garments that combine form, function, and style. Sustainable materials and the development of recycled and innovative fabric will keep all sailors looking their best on the water while contributing to environmental causes and remaining fully protected from the elements.

Photos: Helly Hansen, Gauthier Lebec, Gill Marine, C.GREGORY/Great Britain SailGP Team, Zhik | Words: Emma Hersh