For many watersports enthusiasts, winter can be a dreaded period. Gone are the days of warm waters and clear skies, with watersport events and festivals taking a break too. Instead, waters become much cooler and skies more often grey. It can leave surfers and swimmers with seemingly little to do but wait. However, this doesn’t have to be the case.
More individuals and groups are finding themselves active during the winter season, enjoying their favourite watersports. Getting wrapped up in wetsuits and braving the initial chill is a small price to pay to enjoy the shore when they are free from summer footfall. Beginners can get out onto the water without any crowds, making the learning experience even more enjoyable.
So, if you and your friends are looking for a watersport to enjoy over winter, not only are there a number of options available but it might also be a great way to get started too!
Kayaking
If you’re still hesitant to plunge into the sea on a cold day, kayaking might be for you. Not only can you wrap up in layers to stay warm but it’s much easier to avoid getting wet. Many winter kayakers praise the open waters, donning their wetsuits and layers to then paddle across to hidden beaches and coves.
Be sure to wear the right gear when kayaking in winter since your body will be working up a sweat, requiring breathability, while simultaneously trying to deter the cold and wind. Lightweight down jackets are an excellent accessory for this purpose.
Paddleboarding
While kayaking and paddleboarding share a number of similarities, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) is considered to be more accessible to beginners and generally have a lower impact on the body. This can be ideal for those individuals looking to find their feet on the water, as well as those who want to enjoy a more relaxed activity.
Make sure that, depending on the body of water you’re exploring, you have the right board. It is important to choose the right one since it will make a big difference to your experience on the water.
Swimming
Of all the potential watersport activities that one could enjoy during winter, swimming might appear to be the least likely, however, cold water swimming has quickly become one of the most celebrated pursuits. In addition to having waterways free from increased footfall, swimmers that get out during winter also note a number of health benefits too, even feeling better after only a few minutes in the water.
With a number of accessories now geared toward warming up and drying off after a cold water swim, it’s easy to be comfortable and safe. And, the hot chocolate you share after a swim will seldom taste better!
Jet Skiing
Less crowded seas mean more freedom to roam and what better way to roam than atop a jet ski? With open waters, jet skiing becomes even more enjoyable, allowing riders to explore further and faster than they might at other times of the year. Plus, if you’re renting, prices are certain to be much lower than during peak summer season too.
