Hints and Tips

Dinghy sailing often involves getting wet from spray, rain or capsize. It is a total blast. However, from mid-fall to mid-spring, appropriate sailing gear is critical to your comfort and safety. During the summer, most of us sail in just a bathing suit because the lake is so warm. During the winter, hypothermia is a concern. Consider looking for a second hand full length 3mm (or thicker) wetsuit on ebay. Take a look at Urban Surf or Fisheries Supply selection (Northlake Way across from Gasworks Park).

If you don't have a wetsuit, layer wool, polypro, fleece, etc. NO COTTON! Cotton gets wet and stays wet and makes you cold. Always bring a dry change of clothes (assume you are going to get wet).

The WAC has locker rooms upstairs that are open when the WAC is open (watch their hours to avoid lockout). There are hot showers and a dryer as well. The dryer operates on a dime. Good idea to keep some dimes around. You can check out a locker/lock/towel for the day for free with your UW ID. As a student, you can rent a locker for $7 per quarter and just keep your gear at the WAC all the time. This way you are always ready to go sailing without having to go home for your gear.

Next: More hints and tips