What to Wear Rafting: Beyond the Internet Answer
The typical internet recommendation of “just wear a swimsuit, board shorts, and a quick-drying shirt” fails to address the complexities of whitewater rafting gear. This simplistic advice only works for warm summer days with higher water temperatures. When planning your rafting attire, you’ll need to consider multiple factors. The season dramatically affects what you should wear. Spring and fall trips require additional insulation layers to combat cooler air and water temperatures. Multi-day adventures demand more comprehensive clothing planning to handle varying conditions both on the river and at camp. Your location matters, too—mountain and forest rivers typically maintain cooler water temperatures even during summer months.
Avoid Cotton at All Costs!
Cotton becomes your enemy on the river. It dries exceptionally slowly, provides minimal insulation when wet, and will leave you shivering and miserable during your adventure. Choose these non-cotton alternatives instead:
- Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon dry quickly after getting wet, maintain insulation properties even when damp, and actively wick moisture away from the skin to prevent chilling.
- Neoprene works differently but effectively. It traps a thin layer of water against the skin that the body warms, creating constant insulation even in cold conditions.
- Gore-Tex and coated nylon materials offer dual protection by preventing outside water from soaking you while allowing your body’s moisture to escape, preventing both external soaking and internal sweating.
- Wool provides exceptional performance as a natural alternative, maintaining insulation properties even when wet while regulating temperature and controlling odor during longer trips.
Master the Layering System
Implement this three-layer approach to adapt quickly to changing river and weather conditions:
- Start with a base layer of wool or synthetic long underwear that wicks moisture away from your skin while providing initial temperature regulation.
- Add a mid-layer fleece or wool shirt/sweater that traps warm air close to your body, creating crucial insulation between you and the elements.
- Finish with an outer layer rain jacket and pants that block wind and water while allowing internal moisture to escape, protecting you from splashes and unexpected weather changes.
Protect Your Feet Properly
Your feet will get wet! Wear footwear that stays securely attached and offers protection:
- Old tennis shoes with secure laces provide excellent grip and protection without breaking the bank.
- Purpose-built water shoes offer specialized traction for slippery rocks and boat surfaces.
- Sandals work if they include heel straps, but choose closed-toe models like Keens to protect your toes from rocks and boat frames.
- Pack wool socks for additional warmth during cooler trips or consider investing in neoprene socks with built-in foot soles for superior insulation in cold water conditions.
- For multi-day trips, bring separate dry footwear for camp comfort.
River Drifters Provides Essential Gear
We supply high-quality river gear to enhance your experience, including neoprene “farmer john” wetsuits that combine warmth with the mobility needed for paddling. Our fleece mid-layers deliver crucial insulation when temperatures drop, while splash jackets protect against wind and water spray. All guests receive Coast Guard-approved Type V life jackets, and we offer optional helmets for additional safety.
Quick Guide by Trip Type
For summer Deschutes day trips (80°F+ with mild winds), wear a swimsuit or board shorts with a quick-drying sun shirt, secure water shoes, and sun protection including a hat with strap, secured sunglasses, and waterproof sunscreen. For spring/fall trips or adventures on the White Salmon or Clackamas rivers, take advantage of our provided wetsuits, fleece layers, and splash jackets. Consider bringing additional thermal layers based on the forecast, and always pack a completely dry change of clothes for after your trip. Always check the weather forecast before setting out, and adjust your packing accordingly to ensure maximum comfort on the water!
Still have questions about what to wear rafting or how to dress for a specific river trip? The above information will also be in your river-specific trip itinerary and will arrive in your inbox after you book your reservation. Haven’t booked your reservation? What are you waiting for…save your seats now!
