When it comes to escapism, there are few outdoor activities as liberating as white water rafting. You hang for dear life as the glorified dinghy you’re sitting in is carried through a spectacular landscape the current of a powerful river - what could be better for taking your mind off things? And yet, not even here can you escape the perennial question - What am I going to wear?
Considering the conditions needed to create a rapid river that’s suitable for rafting, there are a few things you need to take into account: water, temperature and rocks. In the UK, these rivers are found in highland areas like the Scottish Highlands of Snowdonia and other parts of North Wales, which aren’t the most forgiving of places. Your white water rafting provider will give you the key equipment to protect you against the elements, but there are a couple of things that are your responsibility.
The stuff you don't need to worry about
Wetsuit
Your first line against the cold is the vigorous exercise that you're going to be doing throughout the rafting session. The second is a wetsuit. In almost all cases, this will be provided by the outdoor activity operator, though you may be able to bring your own if you check in advance that it’s up to spec. It should have long sleeves for the arms and legs, to defend against the temperature and scratches and scrapes, and be thick enough for the location and the time of year. Remember, they keep you warmer when they’re wet, so don’t be afraid to dunk yourself in the river at the start of the activity!
Life Jacket
Again, this is something that your white water guide will give you before taking on the rapids. White water rafting is fun because of the turbulent waters of rapids, and these occur in shallow water. Having said that, there will more than likely be calmer, deeper sections of river during your rafting journey so having a buoyancy aid is a must.
Helmet
Like the life jacket, this one is more of a precaution when you’re in the raft. However, it’s possible that you’ll capsize at some point, in which case you need protection against the rocks in and around the river.
The stuff you should take with you
To go under the wetsuit
Just like with any water sport that involves a wetsuit, you need to put something between it and your body. Neoprene does such an excellent job of keeping you warm, but it doesn’t score so high on the comfort scale. As a minimum, you need to wear a swimsuit - and we recommend something more like swimming shorts than bikini bottoms. Highly recommended, especially in colder weather, is a rash vest or something similar. Avoid cotton t-shirts as they will cool you down and look for a base layer that will retain its insulative properties when wet.
To wear on your feet
Some outdoor activity operators supply wetsuit boots to participants in rafting experiences, but this isn’t currently the industry standard. If you have your own, fantastic. If not, you’ll be fine with a pair of lace-up trainers that you can fasten securely to your feet. Anything with open toes or even holes - think crocs, jelly shoes - aren’t suitable because small stones could get inside.
To warm up afterwards
Once you're out of the water and the adrenaline rush that took over your body is starting to subside, the cold can start to set in. Be prepared with a towel and a set of dry clothes. Layers are best, starting with an insulating base layer, followed by thicker garments, and don’t forget a waterproof because it might be raining. Of course, you’re going to need a dry pair of shoes and socks too!
Seasonal variations
These recommendations are based on the general experience of rafting and might not cover all bases, in all locations, at all times of year. There are some rafting routes on relatively calm rivers where suncream would be more important than a wetsuit. At the other end of the scale are extreme experiences on rivers that can only be rafted in the winter, like the River Orchy in Scotland, for which you’ll require much more specialised gear.
At the end of the day, it’s essential to contact your rafting guides before your trip and ask what they will provide and what they recommend you bring. The goal of dressing correctly for a white water adventure is to allow you to focus on the experience of rafting and not worry about getting cold, wet and bruised. Book through any of our providers and we’re sure that you won’t!
