How I Learned to Love Fall Paddle Boarding: Staying Warm, Confident, and Connected on the Water
Extending your paddleboarding season into the fall can be one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences — crisp air, quiet lakes, and golden reflections on the water. But for many midlife women (myself included), the drop in temperature can make that idea feel less inviting. I used to pack away my board as soon as the mornings turned chilly, assuming paddleboarding was strictly a summer sport. That changed the first autumn I decided to keep going — and discovered that with the right gear and a few smart habits, staying warm on the water is not only possible but deeply rejuvenating.
Paddleboarding in the Fall: Finding Joy Beyond Summer
There’s something magical about paddleboarding in cooler weather. The water is calmer, the crowds are gone, and the stillness feels meditative. But the key to enjoying it is staying warm before, during, and after your session. Once I figured that out, my paddleboard season stretched well into November — and I found a new kind of peace on the water.
Layering for Warmth: The Foundation of Cold-Weather Paddleboarding
The first lesson I learned was that layering is everything. Fall paddleboarding isn’t about bundling up in bulky clothes — it’s about using smart, moisture-wicking layers that keep you dry and insulated.
Here’s what works for me:
Base layer: A thermal top made from merino wool or a quick-dry synthetic fabric. Cotton is a no-go — it traps moisture and chills you fast.
Mid-layer: A thin neoprene or fleece layer that provides insulation without restricting movement.
Outer layer: A windproof, water-resistant jacket or paddling top to block the chill.
Even on calm days, wind off the water can cut through you, so having a shell layer makes a huge difference.
Warm Feet, Warm Hands, Warm Core
When the air cools, your body prioritizes keeping your core warm — which means your fingers and toes can get cold quickly. I learned to invest in neoprene booties and paddling gloves early on. They make gripping the paddle and staying balanced much easier when the water’s cold.
I also started bringing a thermos of hot tea for mid-paddle breaks. It sounds simple, but that little bit of warmth from the inside out changes everything.
The Game-Changer: Staying Warm After You Paddle
No matter how well you dress, you’ll cool down quickly once you stop moving. This is where I used to struggle most — until I discovered the dryrobe® Advance.
I first saw other paddleboarders pulling these on at the end of their sessions — oversized, cozy-looking robes that seemed to swallow them whole. I finally tried one last fall, and it completely changed my post-paddle routine.
The dryrobe® is waterproof and windproof on the outside, with a soft, insulating lining that feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket. I use it right after I get off the board — it lets me change out of damp layers discreetly and keeps me toasty even when the wind picks up. It’s become my go-to piece of gear for every chilly paddle, and honestly, it’s the reason I no longer dread the cold.
Pre- and Post-Paddle Rituals That Keep You Warm
Over time, I’ve developed a few rituals that make fall paddleboarding feel less like braving the elements and more like a self-care practice:
Warm up before launching. A few minutes of light stretching or brisk walking helps get your blood flowing.
Pack a towel and dry clothes. Even if you don’t plan to fall in, being prepared makes you more confident.
Change immediately after paddling. That’s when the dryrobe® comes in — it keeps you warm while you peel off damp layers.
Sip something hot. A thermos of tea or coffee makes the drive home feel like a reward.
Confidence, Comfort, and Connection
As a midlife woman, I’ve found that paddleboarding in the fall isn’t just about staying active — it’s about reclaiming a sense of adventure. There’s a quiet confidence that comes from pushing past the instinct to stay indoors and instead embracing the season on your own terms.
With the right gear, especially something like the dryrobe® Advance, you can stay warm, comfortable, and connected to the water all year long. The cold no longer feels like a barrier — it feels like part of the experience.
Check out Dryrobe HERE for free shipping in the UK & Canada!
