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* Cotton is not a good choice. While it provides warmth when it is dry, it is horrible when wet. Always wear something that dries quickly.
*
Long spandex pants (baggy pants will get ruined by the seats in the
boat)
These
do not have to be an expensive brand name. Walmart carries an inexpensive brand for about $15.00 (other suggestions might be Modells, Target, etc.)
*
Long/short/sleeveless compression shirt
These are great as a base
layer when it's cold, and can easily be layered with other clothing for extra warmth. Again, these do not have to be an expensive brand name.
* Hat, ear muffs or ear-covering head band (essential)
* Wool Socks (not cotton)
* A set of extra clothes-this is a water
sport and sometimes you get wet.
And here is some more advice courtesy of the Washington-Lee Crew website:
The best
clothing for rowing is soft, stretchy, breathable, and fairly form fitting.
Loose shorts can get caught in the slides under the moving seats, so avoid
basketball style shorts or warm-ups. Loose tops can get caught in the oar
handles, so avoid bulky jackets or sweatshirts. In general, you should dress as
though you are going running in the elements, or Nordic
skiing.
Synthetic
Fabrics
Synthetic fabrics such as
Polypro, Cool Max, Under Armor and similar fabrics are best because they keep
you relatively warm even when wet and they dry quickly. You will get wet from
perspiration, rain, and splash. The key is that they have synthetic clothing
that will keep them warm even when wet.
Layering
Layering
is important for keeping warm, and maintaining the right temperature. Your needs
will change during a practice depending on exertion and changing conditions.
Having the appropriate layers enables you to regulate your insulation and
protection. Sometimes a rower may mix 2 out of 3 layers, depending on
conditions.
- 1.
Base layer: Form
fitting and intended to wick moisture away from the skin. A long-sleeve Under
Armor or similar brand is ideal. These garments are thin, and similar to base
layer garments worn when skiing. Multiple base layers can be worn for added
warmth. On colder days, rowers may want to wear tights for leg
warmth.
- 2.
Insulation layer: A synthetic fleece garment worn
on colder days where extra insulation is needed. Thicker than the base layer,
but not bulky. Polartec or Polarfleece clothing products fall within this
category. Some insulation layer fabrics also have wind protection built
in.
- 3.
Wind block and Waterproof Clothing: Having a wind block that breathes
helps retain warmth while not getting too hot. Base and insulation layers are
generally not designed to block the wind. A Gore-Tex Jacket (Crew Jacket) is
designed for this purpose while also being form fitting so that it does not
interfere with the oars, and has ventilation panels on the sides for breathing.
Other wind blocking clothing can be worn, but ensure that it breathes and is
form fitting.
Waterproof clothing is not
required for rowing. If you do purchase waterproof clothing, ensure that it is
highly breathable. Really waterproof clothing tends not to breathe as well,
increasing body heat and sweating, and then holding the perspiration within the
clothing instead of letting it evaporate. This can result in you getting too
hot, taking off the waterproof clothing, and then getting really chilled.
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