I’m writing this from home, wondering whether it’s too early to put the heating on. It probably is, but there’s no denying that autumn is on its way.
For watersports, that’s exciting. The wind has a bit more bite, the swell starts to build and everything feels alive. Whether you’re a kitesurfer chasing a new WOO score or a wing foiler hoping for long rides on the swell, autumn can deliver some of the best sessions of the year.
Those conditions also make it worth checking the kit you rely on. Here are our autumn watersports essentials for UK riders.
1. A wetsuit you can rely on
You might be comfortable in a 4/3mm wetsuit for a while yet, or you might already be reaching for your 5/4mm. It depends on the weather, how long you’re out and how much you feel the cold.
The important thing is that your suit fits properly and keeps you warm if your session doesn’t go to plan. A tired, holey wetsuit can feel fine while you’re riding. It’s a different story if your wing gets damaged and you spend longer than expected in the water gathering your gear.
That’s why we see a good wetsuit as an essential piece of safety kit, especially as the water gets colder. If yours is due for replacement, have a look at the options from Mystic and ION.
2. An impact vest
We’re seeing more riders wearing impact vests, particularly for foiling. They add protection around your ribs and torso, which is reassuring when you’re riding near a board or foil. The extra layer can help keep the wind off, too.
They’re worth considering for wingfoiling, parawinging, kiteboarding and other sports where a fall or an impact with your kit is a possibility.
One important point: an impact vest is not a rated buoyancy aid or lifejacket. Some offer a little buoyancy, but if you need a certified buoyancy aid, check out the RNLI website for helpful information rnli.org
3. A watersports helmet
We’d strongly recommend a helmet if you’re foiling or pushing your limits on a kite. A fall can happen quickly, and we’ve heard plenty of stories from riders who were very glad they had theirs on.
It’s especially worth thinking about as the wind and swell pick up. Choose a helmet designed for watersports that fits securely and feels comfortable. The best one is the one you’ll actually feel comfortable to wear every session.
4. A reliable kite harness
Your harness does a lot of work, but it’s easy to forget about it until something goes wrong. Before the windy season gets going, take a close look at the webbing, stitching and connection points. If anything looks worn or damaged, get it checked or replace it.
I learnt this the hard way. The webbing on my old harness snapped during a session, and suddenly I was watching my kite fly towards a spit. It had been used heavily for years and spent far too much time in the back of the van. I should have replaced it sooner.
5. A changing robe
A changing robe is one of those things you appreciate most after a cold, windy session. It gives you a sheltered place to change, keeps the wind off while you pack down and makes the whole trip home a bit more pleasant.
6. A neoprene jacket
A neoprene jacket can add warmth over your wetsuit when the wind has a proper chill to it. When we ran our kitesurfing school, they were popular with students and instructors for exactly that reason.
They’re useful on the water, but also while you’re rigging up or packing away on the beach. Some come with a hood, which is particularly welcome when you’re rigging up and packing down.
A little luxury: a wetsuit dryer
This one’s a treat rather than an essential, but regular riders will understand the appeal. If you’re out whenever it’s windy, or you’re travelling between spots in a van, pulling on a cold, damp wetsuit the next morning isn’t much fun.
An electric wetsuit dryer, such as the SurfLogic Wetsuit Dryer, can make back to back sessions much more comfortable during autumn and winter.
Ready for autumn?
Autumn brings some brilliant conditions to the UK. It also brings colder water, stronger wind and days when you may spend more time in the water than planned. A quick check of your kit before the season gets going is well worth it.
If you’re unsure which wetsuit, vest or other bit of kit will suit your spot or riding style, get in touch. We’re always happy to give you honest advice.
Autumn watersports FAQs
What wetsuit do I need for autumn watersports in the UK?
Many riders use a 4/3mm wetsuit in early autumn, then move to a 5/4mm as conditions get colder. There’s no fixed changeover date. Think about the water temperature, wind chill and length of your sessions, and of course how easily you feel the cold.
Is an impact vest a buoyancy aid?
No impact vests are usually not newton rated and therefore not a buoyancy aid. Impact vests are primarily designed to help protect you from knocks, and impacts. If you want to understand this further, we recommend heading to the RNLI website for more information. rnli.org
Should I wear a helmet for foiling?
We’d strongly recommend it. A properly fitting watersports helmet is a sensible choice when you’re riding near a foil, or pushing your level in any watersports, particularly in stronger autumn conditions.
When should I replace my kite harness?
Check it regularly rather than waiting for a certain number of seasons. Worn webbing, damaged stitching or tired connection points are all reasons to have it inspected and replace it if necessary.
