What to Wear to Practice

Rowing is a water sport and here in the Northweast often involves less-than-ideal weather conditions. Club policy is that crews do not go out on the water when the weather is breezy (> 10 knots), or if the water is choppy (at coach's discretion).

If the weather prevents going out on the water, you will very likely get to run for part of your workout, yes, even in rain and cold. So, always come to practice with running shoes and decent socks to run in, running (or rowing) shorts, and an athletic shirt.

You can bring gloves for running and land training days. But rowers never wear gloves on the water because gloves reduce the ability to control the oar handle reliably.

On the days you will go on the water, there is always a good possibility of getting splashed, or getting caught in a rain shower. Or it might just be cold. Generally you will warm up while rowing, but then cool down quickly when you are back on the dock putting the equipment away. Wet feet are a common malady, since the dock often has puddles.

You will need rowing shorts, tight fitting (so they don't hang off you and interfere with the moving seat motion or get caught in the tracks). Rowing shorts will be useful as the season warms up.

For February and March, you should plan to dress for cold weather and AVOID WEARING COTTON ON COLD DAYS. We recommend:
- spandex long sleeved shirt (made by Under Armor), fairly thick and tight fitting. This fabric keeps you warm even when wet, unlike cotton.
- long nylon tights, to ankle length. Again, Under Armor makes these.
- Nylon socks, which dry quickly and stay warm when wet. There are many types but I got mine at South Sound Running
- A Hat! Brimmed hats keep the rain off your face. A polypro watchcap can hold in a lot of heat on a wet or breezy day.
- Splashjacket: These are fairly expensive and most people don't like to use them much except on rainy days. A windbreaker (or splash jacket) is very nice if you are riding in the launch for some practices.

You can buy these items at Alpine Experience in Olympia. Or from JL Rowing (www.jlracing.com). Most of these items are so durable (and stretchy) that you can anticipate years of wear.

Please make sure you will have sufficiently warm athletic clothing, which is not cotton based, and provides warmth down to the ankle and out to the wrist.