The best foul weather gear for sailing offshore has a few simple but extremely important jobs to fulfil, so finding something up to the task is vital for not only your enjoyment on the water but also your survival.
Foulies, as you might hear seasoned sailors calling them, need to protect you from some pretty harsh and unforgiving elements. Above all else this is their job, but it doesn’t hurt if they also make life out on the water that little bit easier and more comfortable. The very best foul-weather sailing gear should do it all.
Having lived aboard our sailboat for over 5 years now we’ve been through our fair share of sailing gear. We’ve also been lucky enough to have been sent numerous jackets, trousers and accessories to put to the test so that we can feed back to you guys, so by now we have a pretty good idea of the best products on the market right now.
If you’re looking for foul-weather sailing gear that will tick all your boxes then look no further. We’ve got a narrowed-down list of the very best out there so that you can enjoy any day on the water, no matter what the conditions turn out to be.
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Table of Contents
- The Best Foul Weather Gear For Sailing Offshore
- What Does Foulies Mean In Sailing?
- Do I Need Foul Weather Sailing Gear?
- What To Wear Under Offshore Foul Weather Gear?
- Taking Care Of Your Foulies
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Best Foul Weather Gear For Sailing Offshore
Let’s dive into the best foul-weather gear for sailing offshore. From top-quality sailing jackets to all-in-one dry suits, these are the best of the best.
Foul Weather Jackets For Sailing
If you head out sailing often then you’re going to need a really decent sailing jacket that can cope with anything the sea and sky throw at you.
When we first set out I assumed a lightweight jacket would be fine for sailing the Greek waters over summer. Temperatures are often 40 degrees after all. But I was quickly humbled by the power of the sea, rain and wind. It’s amazing how quickly you’ll lose body heat when sailing in bad conditions, no matter what the usual climate is.
It would be crazy to head out to sea without a proven sailing jacket to protect you from the elements. Hypothermia is a genuine danger at sea.
We’ve tried out the following jackets in some pretty terrible conditions and rate them highly.
Aegir Ocean Jacket by Helly Hansen
Helly Hansen’s foul weather gear is some of the best out there. They are one of the top sailing brands for a reason. We’ve had the privilege of trying out numerous Helly Hansen products over the years, from light weather jackets to ski jackets to serious offshore gear. This jacket is the real deal.
I couldn’t possibly list all the features of this jacket. It’s designed for truly challenging conditions and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better foul-weather sailing jacket out there. It’s the perfect sailing jacket for winter conditions. The tough fabric isn’t actually too heavy, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time and move around in freely.
There is no water seepage, it truly does keep you dry as you would want and hope (but often don’t get!) The rubber cuffs mean no water escapes up your arm when you’re working lines. It’s fully customisable which makes a huge difference, especially when it comes to the hood. Usually, I find I have to choose between visibility or keeping my head dry but this hood is actually useful.
The length is a great feature. It’s long enough that you can sit on it, meaning you’ll be happy to wear this in conditions that don’t call for foul-weather trousers. It’s kept bottoms dry on a number of soggy days!
I could go on and on about the quality of this jacket, but don’t trust just me, go and check out the reviews which are glowing and plentiful. This might just be the only foul-weather sailing jacket you will ever buy.
✅ Buy the Aegir Ocean jacket now
Skagen Offshore Sailing Jacket by Helly Hansen
This jacket is a little less extreme (and less expensive!) than the Aegir. It’s a great foul weather jacket but if you’re off on a serious expedition I would still opt for the Aegir.
As you would expect from an offshore jacket, the Skagen is waterproof, breathable and windproof. And it really is. None of this leaking at the seams or creeping in through zippers. The external layer of Cordura fabric are durable and rugged meaning to don’t have to baby this jacket, and the interior has a quick-dry, mesh lining.
We love the customisable hood, face shield, hem and cuffs which are probably largely responsible for the fact this jacket really doesn’t let in the elements.
Plus it has all the added features you could want and need in foul weather gear built for survival. A neon yellow hood for visibility, a fleece-lined collar which makes a huge difference to comfort, SOLAS reflective elements, large hand pockets for gear and a hangar loop.
Another huge benefit to this jacket is the fact you can move in it so freely. When bad weather hits you need to act quickly, to be fumbling with your cuffs riding over your hands or trying to adjust the fit so you can move your arms. Both Adam and I found this jacket fits well, but not too well.
For women with hips, I recommend buying a size up if you don’t want it to sit above your hip line!
✅ Buy the Skagen offshore jacket now
Foul Weather Sailing Trousers
Waterproof, rugged trousers are an essential bit of foul weather kit for sailing. Standing or sitting for hours in the elements requires full body protection from the cold and wet and specialist sailing trousers are designed to keep heat in and moisture out.
Pair foul weather sailing trousers with a top-notch jacket and you should be (almost) good to go. Below are some of the trousers we recommend. We would not advise going for ‘normal’ waisted trousers, as they will almost certainly allow water in at the waistline. Go for salopette-style trousers that offer way better protection.
Aegir Ocean Trousers by Helly Hansen
You won’t find much better protection than what’s offered by the Aegir Ocean trousers. These are a quality product with only the harshest of conditions in mind.
The fabric is super rugged and should last you years and years. They are extremely waterproof, breathable and windproof, keeping you warm and dry for hours in bad weather.
The knee pads on these foul-weather sailing trousers are a really nice touch. They make a big difference when kneeling to work, but are light enough not to be felt when walking. There is also a reinforced seat pad for those long watches.
The adjustable suspenders, waist and hem mean these fit every body type comfortably and provide even better protection.
It’s hard to find any fault with these rugged, offshore foulies.
✅ Buy the Aegir Ocean sailing trousers now
Skagen Foul Weather Sailing Gear by Helly Hansen
Like the jackets, the Skagen foul weather trousers are a fantastic option if you want to save a little money without compromising too much on quality. They are designed for bad weather and will hold up perfectly for anyone not heading off on some crazy voyage. I would say the perfect foulies for sailing in the Mediterranean.
These trousers are made from a lightweight, waterproof fabric that is breathable and windproof. They are designed for tough conditions and you can tell from the quality of the fabric that they will last you for many, many years.
The bib has a high back for splash protection which really comes in handy when standing at the helm. The trousers have an adjustable waist and leg length, so they can be worn over thermal underwear or other layers. They also have reflective strips for safety in low-light conditions.
If you aren’t prepared to splash out the hefty price tag for the Aegir trousers then give these a try. They are a great pair of trousers to have in your foul weather kit.
✅ Buy men’s now from Helly Hansen
✅ Buy women’s now from Helly Hansen
Drysuits For Sailing In Bad Weather
Sailing dry suits are a speciality bit of sailing kit but shouldn’t be ignored for anyone doing some serious sailing.
They do exactly what you’d assume -keep you completely dry even when submerged. And let’s face it, even if you’re not unlucky enough to fall overboard, a bit of nasty weather onboard and you’ll feel like you are!
Dry suits are the ultimate foul weather sailing gear. Consider having one of these in your arsenal for when things turn south.
Helly Hansen Aegir Drysuit
As you’ve probably realised from the rest of this article, we’re pretty big fans of Helly Hansen. Between them and Gill, we know we’ll get quality sailing gear that will actually last, and do the job! This drysuit is no different.
This design has been tested in the absolute worst conditions out there and has come out tops. It’s built to last and it’s perfect for long ocean crossings or circumnavigation where you need gear that you can rely on for weeks on end.
With a fully waterproof zipper that makes putting it on easy, rubber cuffs and neck for a complete waterproof seal and fully taped to aid with breathability and windproofing, this drysuit will suit almost any sailor in any conditions.
We haven’t used this drysuit in arctic conditions but others have, and they always get glowing reviews. Don’t take our word for it, go have a read.
The only thing to note is that these dry suits tend to run a little big, so make sure you don’t buy an oversized suit for comfort. They have already factored this in!
Gill Verso Drysuit
The Gill Verso Drysuit is another fantastic option. It’s got all the usual features – waterproof (obviously), windproof, breathable, and is made from 3 layer fabric that feels expensive and long lasting.
It’s easy to get on and off, which can sometimes be a battle with dry suits. It also has an adjustable skirt so you can get a comfortable fit for your body shape.
One of the unique features of this drysuit is the hood with 2-way adjustment that can be stored as necessary. This is a super thoughtful touch and makes it a stand-out drysuit for any offshore sailing.
You won’t be disappointed with this bit of foul weather kit when you’re stuck out in the elements for hours (or days!) at a time.
Sailing Boots For Extreme Weather
Whatever you do, don’t forget your feet! You’re likely to feel the cold here first, so you need a good pair of sailing boots to keep your feet warm and dry. Please don’t skip this! It’s so important.
The Gill offshore boot is our favourite. It offers great protection from the elements but it’s comfortable to wear for long periods and easy (enough) to move around in. The non-slip soles also work really well which is a really important consideration when choosing sailing footwear. Overall it’s a great option.
✅ Buy the Gill Offshore boot now
Foul Weather Accessories
If you want the whole shabang (and you should) then make sure you have a pair of waterproof gloves and a warm hat to wear under your hood.
You can get specific helmsmen/crew gloves which have slightly different features but unless you’re doing some serious expeditions then some thin but waterproof gloves with good grip are probably your best option. You’ll still be able to work lines etc but your hands will have some protection from the wet and cold. Check out the best sailing gloves to add to your kit.
You’ll want a decent hat for sailing anyway for protection about the sun, but when temperatures drop a beanie or similar is a good idea. The only problem with them is that they have the opposite effect when wet, so we take ours off when the weather really takes a turn.
One thing I couldn’t be without in foul weather is a buff which keeps out some of the spray and keeps my face protected from the wind, rain, cold and sun. It’s a great all-rounder. You can get fleecy ones for cold weather but I’ve always been find with my lighter one when sailing in the summer months.
What Does Foulies Mean In Sailing?
In sailing, “foulies” refers to foul weather gear—specialized waterproof and windproof clothing designed to protect sailors from harsh weather conditions.
This typically includes jackets, trousers, and boots made from durable, waterproof materials but might also include dry suits. Basically everything included in this post!
Foulies are essential when sailing in rough seas, heavy rain, or strong winds, helping sailors stay dry and warm while they navigate challenging weather. You will need some form of foulies on board and ready to go whenever you head out sailing because you never know what the weather is going to do.
Do I Need Foul Weather Sailing Gear?
Yes, you definitely need foul weather sailing gear. I cannot imagine heading out for even the shortest of sails without a foul weather jacket and trousers as a minimum.
Having seen how quickly the weather and your circumstances can change when you’re out sailing I would just never risk being out at sea without warm and waterproof gear on board for every member of the crew. I would say foul weather sailing gear is as important as a life jacket.
Foul weather gear, or “foulies,” is essential for keeping you dry and warm when faced with rain, strong winds, and choppy seas. Even if the forecast looks good, conditions at sea can change quickly, and having the right gear is crucial for both comfort and safety.
Without proper foul weather gear, you can become cold, wet, and uncomfortable, affecting your ability to focus and react quickly while sailing. Additionally, hypothermia becomes a real risk if you’re exposed to wind and rain for long periods.
High-quality foulies, including waterproof jackets, trousers, and boots, are designed to keep you insulated from the elements, allowing you to continue sailing without distraction.
If you’re sailing in areas known for frequent storms, high winds, or sudden weather shifts, investing in good foulies is a must. However, even for casual sailors, it’s wise to have at least a basic set on board in case the weather takes a turn.
What To Wear Under Offshore Foul Weather Gear?
Honestly, you can wear whatever you want under your foulies. I’ve shoved mine on over my bikini before and they still did a great job. But obviously there are some more sensible choices.
Layering is key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable so we have a stash of decent base layers for actual tough sailing.
Base Layer
The base layer is the first layer against your skin, and its main function is to wick moisture away to keep you dry. Opt for:
- Synthetic or Merino Wool: Materials like merino wool or moisture-wicking synthetics (polypropylene or polyester) are ideal. They keep you dry by drawing sweat away from your skin, which is critical in keeping warm.
- Avoid Cotton: Cotton absorbs moisture and stays wet, which can make you cold, so it’s best avoided.
You can get really decent base layers from Rei or Helly Hansen, but most outdoor retailers will supply them. We have a set of expensive Merino wool ones that are amazing and we use them for skiing too.
Mid Layer
The mid layer provides insulation, helping to trap heat and maintain your body temperature. This layer is important when sailing in colder climates but you probably won’t need it for day sailing in warmer conditions. Common choices include:
- Fleece Jackets or Tops: Fleece is lightweight, quick-drying, and retains heat even when damp, making it a popular choice.
- Insulated Vests or Sweaters: For extra warmth, down or synthetic insulated vests can be used to add warmth without adding bulk.
Optional Outer Mid Layer
In extreme cold, you might want an additional insulating layer between your mid and outer layers. This could be:
- Softshell Jackets: A wind-resistant, breathable softshell jacket can help add another layer of warmth without sacrificing mobility.
Taking Care Of Your Foulies
If you want your expensive foul weather sailing gear to last for years to come then you’ll need to take care of it.
Can You Wash Foul Weather Gear?
You can wash foul weather sailing gear, but it requires special care to maintain its waterproofing and breathability. The best advice would be to check the label or website instructions for your specific gear. The manufacturer knows best how to care for their product.
If you don’t have access to this information then make sure you use a detergent specifically designed for waterproof clothing, like Nikwax Tech Wash or Granger’s Performance Wash. Avoid regular laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and bleach, as they can damage the gear’s waterproof membrane.
Use a gentle cycle or hand wash to ensure clothing doesn’t get damaged in the machine.
Over time, washing can reduce the gear’s water-repellent finish. After cleaning, it’s a good idea to reapply a durable water repellent (DWR) treatment, either in spray or wash-in form, to restore its water-shedding ability.
After washing, air dry your foul weather gear by hanging it up in a well-ventilated area. Avoid using high heat or tumble drying unless the care label specifically allows it, as excessive heat can damage the fabric.
It might sound complicated, but honestly, you’re not going to bother washing it too often. You’re just going to want to keep it dry and well ventilated after use – see below for more details on storage.
Where To Store Offshore Sailing Clothes
You might think this is a silly thing to worry about, but choosing where and how to store your foul weather gear is actually pretty important.
When it comes to storing your offshore sailing clothes, it’s important to keep them dry, clean, and easily accessible. Here are some key tips on where and how to store them properly:
- Dedicated Dry Locker: The best place to store your offshore sailing clothes is in a dedicated dry locker on board. Most offshore vessels have lockers designed to keep important gear safe and dry. These are typically watertight and away from areas prone to dampness or seawater exposure.
- Waterproof Bags: If you don’t have access to a dry locker, using waterproof duffel bags or dry bags is a great alternative. These bags protect your clothes from moisture and saltwater while also keeping them compact and easy to store in small spaces.
- Away from Engine Room: Ensure your offshore sailing clothes are kept away from the engine room or any other area of the boat that might produce excess heat or fumes. Heat can degrade the materials in your gear, while fumes may cause unpleasant odors.
- Well-Ventilated Area: While it’s crucial to keep your gear dry, it’s also a good idea to store it in a well-ventilated area. This prevents any moisture trapped in the fabric from building up and causing mildew. Hang your gear when not in use to air it out and keep it fresh. This is a real problem and we have ruined at least one set of sailing jackets by not storing them somewhere ventilated. It was heartbreaking.
- Aftercare Storage: Once you’re back from a sailing trip, make sure to thoroughly rinse your offshore gear with fresh water to remove any salt and then store it in a cool, dry place at home. Salt holds in the moisture and means you’re far more likely to get unwanted mold growing.
Taking proper care of your offshore sailing clothes will extend their life and maintain their effectiveness against harsh weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the questions we get asked a lot when it comes to foul weather sailing gear. Most people are trying to decide whether or not they actually need foulies on board. I can tell you now, you do. But for more detail please do read on!
What Makes Foul Weather Gear Special?
You might think a simple waterproof rain jacket is fine but you’d be amazed at the technical features proper foul weather clothing has integrated that makes it far, far superior. Here are a just a few features you should expect to find.
- Waterproofing and Breathability: Foul weather gear is made from high-quality, waterproof materials that prevent water from soaking through, even in heavy rain or while facing sea spray. Unlike standard rain gear, it is also breathable, allowing sweat and moisture from your body to escape, keeping you dry inside and out.
- Windproofing: Sailing often involves strong winds, which can quickly sap body heat. Foul weather gear is built to block wind, preventing cold gusts from penetrating the fabric and keeping your body warm and protected.
- Durability and Reinforced Fabric: Foulies are made with rugged materials that can withstand the wear and tear of life on deck, from saltwater corrosion to rough handling. Reinforced areas, such as knees, elbows, and seat panels, are designed to handle constant movement and contact with hard surfaces.
- Sealed Seams: To ensure no water gets through, foul weather gear features taped or welded seams. These seams create a barrier against leaks, unlike traditional stitched seams, which may allow water to seep through over time.
- High Visibility: Safety is a priority at sea, especially in rough weather. Foul weather gear often includes bright colors, reflective patches, or stripes to increase visibility in low-light conditions, making it easier for others to spot you on deck or during emergencies. When given a colour choice I would always opt for the bright reds and yellows. Navy and black won’t be as visible in a man over board emergency.
- Adjustable and Secure Fit: Foulies are designed with adjustable cuffs, waistbands, and hoods to create a snug fit that keeps water out. They are also roomy enough to wear over layers of clothing for insulation.
- Drainage and Quick-Drying Features: Foul weather gear is crafted with materials that dry quickly and feature drainage points to prevent water buildup. This helps sailors stay comfortable, even if they get splashed or drenched.
Overall, what makes foul weather gear special is its ability to keep sailors dry, warm, and safe, no matter how rough the conditions become. It’s designed for the unique demands of sailing, providing both comfort and protection when you’re out at sea.
Is A Drysuit Better Than Foul Weather Gear?
Whether a drysuit is better than foul weather gear depends on the type of sailing you do and the conditions you’re likely to face. Both have their advantages, but they are designed for different environments and purposes.
We have only really needed our dry suit once while sailing the Meditteranean when we got caught in horrific weather with huge waves breaking into the cockpit. I imagine it’s an unlikely scenario in warmer climates. That being said, if you pend enough time at sea you’re bound to need one sooner or later and you’ll be so thankful to have it.
Here’s a little breakdown of each to help you decide whether or not to invest in this expensive but potentially life saving bit of kit.
Foul Weather Gear
Best For: Foul weather gear is typically used for general sailing in cold, wet, and windy conditions but where complete immersion in water is less likely. It’s designed to protect you from rain, wind, and sea spray while still being breathable and flexible enough for active movements on deck.
Advantages:
- Breathable: Foul weather gear allows sweat to escape while keeping water out, which is crucial when you’re working on deck and building up body heat.
- Comfortable for Long Wear: It’s designed for all-day comfort during extended periods of wet weather.
- Layering Options: You can add layers underneath, allowing for flexibility in warmth depending on the weather.
- Mobility: Typically offers more freedom of movement compared to a drysuit, which can be bulkier.
Downside:
- Not Waterproof in Immersion: If you fall overboard or get completely submerged, water will likely enter, as it isn’t sealed to keep you fully dry in such situations.
Drysuit
Best For: Drysuits are used for extreme conditions, including cold water sailing, dinghy sailing, or activities where there’s a higher chance of falling into the water or being exposed to heavy splashes. They’re sealed at the wrists, neck, and ankles to prevent any water from entering.
Advantages:
- Complete Waterproof Protection: Drysuits keep you completely dry, even if you’re submerged in water, as they are sealed at all entry points.
- Insulation Capabilities: By trapping a layer of air between the suit and your body, a drysuit helps maintain warmth. You can also wear insulating layers underneath for added warmth in extremely cold conditions.
- Safety in Cold Water: Drysuits are crucial for preventing hypothermia in cold water environments, making them ideal for activities like offshore or winter sailing.
Downside:
- Less Breathable: Drysuits can get hot and uncomfortable in warm or mild weather because they trap heat and sweat inside. They are not breathable like foul weather gear.
- Bulkier: They can feel more restrictive and heavier, making movement more challenging, especially for long-term wear.
- More Expensive: Drysuits tend to be more expensive due to their high-tech, waterproof construction and seals.
Which One is Better?
- If you’re sailing in rough, wet, but not freezing conditions where immersion in water is unlikely, foul weather gear is likely the better choice. It offers flexibility, comfort, and breathability while protecting you from the elements.
- If you’re sailing in cold water or conditions where you may fall in (e.g., dinghy sailing, offshore sailing in icy waters), then a drysuit is the better option for full waterproof protection and safety.
In summary, foul weather gear is ideal for regular coastal and day sailing, while drysuits are more suited for extreme weather and high-risk conditions where complete immersion could occur. Your sailing environment will dictate which is the better fit for you, though it will never hurt to have both onboard.
Do You Get Wet During Sailing?
You don’t always get wet when sailing, but it will depend so much on the conditions and what kind of sailboat you’re sailing.
You can have some lovely calm sails where you’ll be back on the dock bone dry. You can also set out on a beautifully calm and clear day and end up drenched. You just never really know what you’re going to find out there so it’s always best to be prepared to get wet. One rogue wave can soak you through, as we’ve found out way too many times!
Here are some common situations where sailors may find themselves soaked:
1. Spray from Waves
When sailing in rough seas or windy conditions, waves can crash against the boat and spray water across the deck. This is especially common when sailing upwind, as the boat is often cutting through waves, sending water over the bow.
It can also happen beam on to the waves as we found out when we had them breaking over Adam’s head as he was being violently seasick over the side. Definitely not ideal!
2. Rain
If you’re sailing in rainy weather, you’ll be exposed to the elements. While foul weather gear can help keep you dry, prolonged rain can still lead to damp conditions on board. Without proper gear, you’ll definitely end up wet.
3. Sea Spray in High Winds
Even in calm seas, sailing in high winds can whip sea spray into the air. Boats traveling at high speed can generate their own spray as they cut through the water, splashing crew members.
4. Capsizing or Immersion
If you’re sailing a smaller boat, like a dinghy, there’s always the chance of capsizing and getting fully immersed in the water. Even on larger boats, there’s the risk of going overboard, especially in rough conditions.
5. Launching or Docking
When launching or retrieving a boat, you may have to wade into the water or deal with splashes when the boat moves in shallow areas. This is far less likely on bigger boats, but if you’re sailing dingies you’ll almost certainly be doing a little wading.
Conclusion: The Best Foul Weather Gear For Sailing
In conclusion, investing in the best foul-weather gear for sailing is essential for staying dry, comfortable, and safe on the water.
Whether you’re navigating through a sudden storm, dealing with choppy seas, or just braving a bit of rain, high-quality gear can make all the difference in your experience.
Look for waterproof, breathable materials that offer both flexibility and durability. Key features such as sealed seams, adjustable cuffs, and high collars provide extra protection against the elements. Sailing brands like Helly Hansen, Gill, and Musto are popular choices for their proven reliability in harsh conditions.
Ultimately, the right foul-weather gear will keep you warm and dry, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—enjoying your time on the water and staying safe. Trust me, I have seriously regretted decisions not to bother layering up in my foulies on numerous occasions. I can’t imagine being out there without even having the option.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just starting, investing in solid gear ensures you’ll be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Remember, when it comes to sailing, it’s always better to be over-prepared than caught off guard!
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