Collection: WATER WEAR

Stay Warm and Ride Longer: Water Wear for West Michigan Watersports

If you're riding along the Lake Michigan coast — from Muskegon to South Haven — you know the water doesn't always play nice, even in summer. Our water wear collection is built for Midwest riders who demand performance, comfort, and warmth in cold or changing lake temps. Whether you're launching at Pere Marquette on a breezy spring day or paddling out for a September SUP session in Grand Haven, having the right layer makes all the difference.

From 3/2 wetsuits and thermal rash guards to windproof shells and neoprene tops, this collection is curated for kiteboarders, surfers, foilers, and anyone who won't let chilly water cut their session short.

What to wear for kiteboarding in West Michigan's cold water

If you’ve ever launched at South Haven in April or caught a north wind session near Holland State Park in late fall, you know West Michigan’s lake temps can be brutal — even when the air is mild. So what should you actually wear for kiteboarding in cold Lake Michigan conditions?

The right gear depends on the season and your tolerance for cold, but most riders need a full wetsuit — ideally 4/3 or 5/4 thickness — when water temps drop below 60°F. Pair that with neoprene boots and wind-blocking outer layers, and you’ll extend your sessions while keeping core temps stable.

Launching out of P.J. Hoffmaster State Park in early May? The air might be a sunny 65°F, but the lake still bites like it’s March. One local rider swears by his 5/4 wetsuit paired with a 3mm hood to stay dialed in during spring sessions. Whether he's chasing lightwind foil glides or throwing loops on a north wind, the extra insulation makes all the difference. Don’t let sunshine fool you — Lake Michigan’s water temps stay colder than expected well into summer. Dress for the water, not the weather.

Key cold-water kiteboarding layers:

• 4/3 or 5/4 full wetsuit (taped seams + hood preferred for early spring/fall)
  
• Neoprene boots with grippy soles for slick or rocky launches
  
• Thermal rash guard or quick-dry base layer under your suit
  
• Wind-resistant spray top for added barrier above waterline

Not only does proper water wear protect against cold shock and early fatigue, but it also helps with control during transitions and handling kite loops in gusty shoulder-season wind. Riders new to Midwest kiteboarding often underestimate how quickly windchill and water exposure can sap energy.

Pro tip: Even in May or September, water temps around Grand Haven can hover in the 50s. Don’t base your layers on the air temp — check surf reports or NOAA buoys for real-time water data.

If you're unsure whether to upgrade to a 5/4 or stick with a 4/3, consider how long you stay out. For freestyle riders or those dialing in new tricks, the extra warmth equals more time on the water.

FAQ: Cold Water Kiteboarding in West Michigan

What wetsuit thickness is best for kiteboarding in Lake Michigan?

A 4/3 wetsuit works for many riders in late spring and early fall. In colder months (April, November), a 5/4 with hood and boots is recommended.

Do I need boots or gloves for kiteboarding near Chicago or Grand Haven?

Boots are essential when water drops below 60°F. Gloves can help in colder air temps but may reduce bar feel — many local kiters go gloveless in favor of good circulation and fast transitions.

30-50% OFF EVERYTHING IN WATER WEAR! 

**discount shown at checkout.