Here at Gill, we are used to embracing everything that Mother Nature has to throw at us, and each and every one of us are different in how we take the cold, wind and rain.

While there is no established structure for what a sailor should wear, it is how we layer our clothing that helps to keep our bodies remaining dry, comfortable and ultimately doing what we love, for longer!

Whether you are just starting out or are an experienced sailor, our products are designed to work together to form a system, ensuring maximum comfort and protection from the elements.

In our latest blog, we take you through how each layer works within your clothing system and what you should wear to help you stay comfortable out on the water.

The layering system

Layering up your clothes helps to trap air against your skin, keeping you warm and comfortable. This is a much more effective way of regulating your temperature than wearing one thick layer. The layering system consists of a base layer, a mid-layer and your outer layers and accessories.

Base Layers

First, you need a base layer. Worn next to your skin with a tight fit, your base layer traps air and transports moisture and sweat away from the skin, keeping your temperature steady on days where there is a chill in the air. Your base layers will form the foundation of your whole clothing system, so it’s essential you get this right!

Designed to protect you from head to toe, our base layer range contains short and long-sleeved tops to thermal leggings for those more prone to feel the cold. You can find a range of fabrics from synthetic to merino wool, and more recently our new innovative performance yarn made from recycled PET plastic bottles. All these materials keep your body warm and protected.

Fabrics such as merino wool are ideal for colder temperatures and are also known for their natural anti-bacterial properties, an added bonus in keeping you feeling fresh and extending wear before you need to wash them.

Our synthetic base layers are largely made from polyester, which have great quick-drying and lightweight capabilities. Our long-sleeve crew neck and leggings provide the ultimate thermal base layer, suitable for all year-round wear.

In addition to this, our Holcombe Crew (available in short and long sleeved) are constructed from recycled PET plastic bottles are for those who want to play a part in helping the planet. With soft, next to skin touch, they are quick-drying, crease resistant and easy to care for.

Mid Layers

Our mid layers are worn over your base layers and beneath your outer layers. They provide thermal properties as well as promoting breathability in assisting the movement of moisture to the outer layer, helping to keep you warm, dry and at low risk of discomfort.

Our array of mid layers includes technical fleeces and down and insulated jackets which are designed to work in a range of conditions. One of the most important considerations when choosing your mid layer is to select thickness based on your chosen sailing activity and conditions.

One of our favourite mid layers is our Dart Hoodie, which provides warmth and breathability when you need it most. The interior grid structure enhances air flow, while its moisture wicking technology keeping you warm and comfortable beneath your waterproofs.

When it is warm and pleasant, many sailors choose not to wear an outer layer and may be comfortable in just a fleece or down jacket. A great choice for these conditions is our Hydrophobe Jacket. As well as being lightweight and snug for full freedom of movement, it is naturally insulated and the water-repellent finish means it will continue to perform even when wet.

Outer Layers

Finally, your outer layer: the final protection from the elements helping to shield you from the wind, rain and water, so you can perform in the toughest of conditions.

As the last bastion of defence against the elements, your outer layer should be durable, breathable, comfortable and waterproof.

Thanks to our rigorous testing, our foul weather jackets and trousers are all of these things and more, boasting the versatility to keep you warm and dry – wherever you are on the water.

Choosing your outer layer very much depends on the conditions you are going to be sailing in. When the weather turns cold and the rain starts to come down, a fully waterproof layer such as our OS2 Offshore System, with high cut thermal collar and advanced 2 layer XPLORE fabric technology is advisable for more challenging conditions, helping to keep your core temperature high.

For those who prefer inshore and coastal sailing, our new OS3 system is an excellent shell featuring our XPLORE and XPEL technology, offering incredible levels of water repellence, stain and odour resistance.

Protective salopettes are also a key garment choice for days when you need a little more protection. Covering the majority of your body with a layer of warming, protective clothing means you can concentrate on what you love.

To shop by layers, head over to our layering guide.

A full selection of sailing apparel at Gill

There are also a host of sailing accessories that will be essential for sailing conditions. Gloves, headwear and sailing footwear all make a big difference to our comfort level while sailing, so don’t underestimate their importance.

Our website segments our products for different types of sailing activity. So if you have a specific discipline in mind, take a look at our activity section.

Remember - there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing choices. At Gill, our range of sailing gear allows you to make good clothing choices and focus on what you love most: being out on the water.

And be sure to check our delivery options , and if you have any questions, be sure to contact the Gill team .