Why a heated body warmer is indispensable for sailors

Stay warm on the water: why a heated body warmer is essential for every sailor

On the water, the cold always feels a little different. More cutting. More penetrating. Even if it’s not too bad on shore, you know that the wind feels a lot colder on open water. I’ve underestimated it often enough myself. On the first day of spring, out on the water without an extra layer, and an hour later with chattering teeth behind the helm.

For years I relied on traditional layers: thermal shirt, fleece, thick jacket. But the downside? You build layer upon layer, and before you know it you are wrapped up like a Michelin man. Not exactly handy when you have to tack quickly or are dealing with wet lines.

The real game changer? An electrically heated body warmer. Since I started using the heated body warmer from Gløde, my whole view on comfort on board has changed.
👉 View the heated body warmers here

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The challenges of sailing in cold(er) weather

If you sail in spring or autumn, or even in the middle of summer on a fresh lake, you know the problems.

Wind chill is the biggest culprit. On the water, it is almost always windy. Even a moderate breeze can significantly reduce the perceived temperature.
And the weather on the water? Unpredictable. In the harbour you leave with sunshine, but an hour later a front passes and you are in the rain with 12 degrees.

What do you do then? Put on more layers. But thick clothing restricts you. Especially during active manoeuvres such as jibing or reefing, you want to be able to move freely. Your clothing should keep you warm, but not get in your way. And that's where the heated body warmer comes in handy.

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What makes a heated body warmer ideal for sailors?

A good sailing jacket is essential. But a heated bodywarmer underneath completes the picture. Why?

Targeted heat

The heat zones are exactly where you need them: on the chest and back. That's where you lose the most heat. And believe me, you'll feel the difference the moment you turn it on.

Freedom of movement

The bodywarmer is thin and light. It fits easily under your existing sailing jacket. You retain your full freedom of movement on deck. No more pulling or tugging when you have to cast off a line.

Adjustable temperature

Three positions. Self-adjustable. Suddenly it becomes sunny? Press a button and you switch back. Is a shower coming? Adjust it a bit and you're good again.

Long-lasting comfort

With the included power bank you can easily last a full day of sailing – up to eight hours of heat.
👉 Check out the Gløde Classic with power bank

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My experience on board with the Gløde bodywarmer

The first time I used it was during an autumn regatta on the IJsselmeer. Typical Dutch weather: 9 degrees, strong wind, some drizzle. I had put on my Gløde bodywarmer under my standard sailing jacket.

I turned it on before I got cold, and almost forgot I was wearing it. No overheating, no messing around with adding or removing layers. The warmth was subtle but just right. And the best part? I stayed comfortable all day. Not shivering at the wheel, but focused. At the end of the day, I still had 25% battery left.

Since then, it has been a standard on board. Even on less cold days. Because comfort ensures better performance and more fun.

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Practical tips for use on the water

The bodywarmer is easy to use, but with these tips you can really get the most out of it:

• Charge the powerbank overnight. A full charge via USB takes a few hours.

• Wear it tight to the body. So under your thermal shirt and certainly under your sailing jacket. This way the heat stays close to your body.

• Turn it on before you get cold. Once you're chilled, it takes longer to warm up.

• Combine with other heated clothing. Think fleece and gloves, especially for longer trips.
  👉 Heated fleece
  👉 Heated gloves

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Who is it really recommended for?

Actually for everyone who is on the water for more than an hour at less than 18 degrees. But specifically:

• Fanatical sailors who sail in all seasons

• Competitive sailors or instructors who often sit still and move little

• Wadden sports enthusiasts, canoeists or SUP'ers in cool weather – even if you get wet, your torso stays warm

And yes, it is also ideal on shore. Think of jetty work, trailer ramps or just the drinks afterwards in the cockpit.

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Conclusion

Comfort on the water is not a luxury, but a choice. Anyone who has ever been really cold on a boat knows that it affects your mood and your performance. Since I started using my heated bodywarmer from Gløde, I sail longer, more relaxed and with more pleasure.

Warmth where you need it. Freedom of movement. No hassle with ten layers. As far as I'm concerned, a heated bodywarmer belongs in your sailing bag these days, just like your life jacket or sailing gloves.
👉 View the full range of heated body warmers from Gløde