If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, don’t pack away your gear just yet—Prolimit has you covered!! From lightweight layers for autumn sessions to game-changing wetsuits with thermal rebound technology, Prolimit shows you how to conquer the cold and ride through the seasons. Intrigued? Dive in!

How to stay warm as temperatures drop

When autumn takes hold and winter is about to arrive, kiteboarders, wing foilers, and other water sports enthusiasts face a new challenge: staying warm on the water. The chill in the air, the colder winds, and the cooler water temperatures are no reason to pack away your gear. You can extend your season and stay comfortable all year round with the proper layering and accessories. At Prolimit, we’ve spent decades perfecting gear for these exact moments, helping water lovers embrace the colder months without sacrificing fun or performance. 

The First Cold Breeze – Transitioning from Summer to Autumn

Autumn is a magical time on the water… the crowds thin out, the wind picks up, and the crisp air has a fresh energy. But it’s also the time of the year when that first shiver hits, reminding you that your summer wetsuit may soon not be enough anymore. Layering is your best friend during these in-between months. 

In autumn, a 4/3mm is usually ideal. It provides the right balance of warmth and flexibility; the water is generally still warm from summer. Heading deeper into autumn, an inner system, such as a neoprene top, can be added under the wetsuit for extra insulation. However, since the water is still warm but the air can get cold quickly, adding a neoprene beanie to your quiver is usually enough at this time. 

If the wind gets cold and autumn kicks in early, add a set of thin neoprene gloves and some neoprene socks to your quiver as soon as the water temperatures drop. These accessories can make all the difference on windier days, keeping your extremities warm with no limitations in movement. Thin gloves and socks also ensure that your connection to your board remains responsive.  

Winter winds. Facing the Cold Head-On

Winter arrives with harsher winds and frigid water temperatures. This is when a thicker wetsuit, such as a 5/3mm or even a 6/4mm, becomes essential. But it’s not just about the wetsuit—how you layer and protect yourself from head to toe.

Your core is your body’s heat engine, and keeping it warm is crucial. Look for wetsuits with thermal linings and windproof panels that help block cold gusts. This is where Prolimit’s expertise comes in. Our winter suits are designed with thermal rebound technology, which reflects body heat to you without compromising flexibility. This type of innovation means you don’t have to choose between warmth and performance. Thermal Rebound is featured in our Vapor, Mercury and Oxygen wetsuits. 

Our new winter wetsuit collection is 100% neoprene-free due to the use of NaturePrene2. FSC and CE also approve the wetsuits. 

The Importance of Accessories – Head, Hands, and Feet

As the water gets colder, it’s not just about the wetsuit; your extremities are at even greater risk of losing heat. We often forget that heat loss through the head, hands, and feet can sap your energy faster than you think.

Head: A neoprene beanie or hood is a must once temperatures drop. The head is one of the quickest areas to lose heat, so even a thin layer can make a big difference. For those deeper winter sessions, a full neoprene hood is ideal.

Hands: Cold hands can quickly cut a session short. Neoprene gloves are designed to keep you warm while ensuring you still have grip and control. Thicker gloves (3mm or more) are perfect for freezing days, while 2mm gloves are great for the transitional months.

Feet: Keeping your feet warm and protected from icy water is essential, especially when standing on a cold board. Neoprene boots (ranging from 3mm to 5mm) provide warmth without sacrificing board feel. Look for split-toe designs that give you better control while maintaining warmth.

Don’t Forget to Layer Smart

Layering isn’t just about adding thickness; it’s about using the suitable materials in the right places. Layers, like a fleece-lined inner system, can add warmth without needing a bulkier wetsuit. These lightweight and flexible solutions allow for a full range of motion while providing essential insulation against the cold.

One of the most underrated accessories is the neoprene hoody. It’s lightweight, fits snugly, and provides that extra barrier against cold winds. Pairing a hoody with a thicker wetsuit in incredibly harsh conditions offers superior warmth without compromising mobility.

Embracing Winter – The Mindset Shift

Kiting in the winter is about surviving and thriving in the cold. Those sessions have a unique beauty when the beaches are empty, the wind is howling, and the sun is low on the horizon. The world feels quieter, the water crisper and each session feels like an adventure. With the right gear, the cold becomes less of a barrier and more of a unique part of the experience.

When you layer properly and invest in the right accessories, winter on the water can be rewarding. At Prolimit, we’ve learned that embracing these colder months isn’t about enduring the cold but about adapting to it. 

Extend Your Season, Expand Your Horizons

Don’t let the cold keep you from enjoying what you love as the temperatures drop. By layering smart, protecting your core and extremities, and choosing the right gear, you can stay warm and comfortable while riding through the seasons.

Winter riding is not for everyone, but for those who love the thrill of a cold breeze and an empty beach, it’s one of the most rewarding times to be on the water. And with Prolimit’s innovative cold-weather gear, you can keep pushing your limits, no matter the temperature.

By Linda.van.Lakwijk

Comments