One of the most common questions students have is, What should I wear? One overall rule: only take things on the water that can get wet. Here are some guidelines.

Shoes
Be warned: Your shoes will get wet every class. You should wear shoes that can get salt water in them. Canvas boating shoes do very well. Neoprene "water socks" (wet suit type boots) are also great. Leather usually does not do well with salt water. The UCLA policy is that all students must wear closed toed shoes when sailing. This means no sandals on the water. I cannot let anyone sail who doesn't have closed toed shoes.

Shirts/Sweatshirts
I usually wear a t-shirt that can get wet. I also bring a sweatshirt in case it gets cold. Light jackets or windbreakers also work well. The Dock also has wet suit tops available for rental.

Shorts/Pants
Bathing suits are generally a good choice as they dry quickly. For colder weather, you may want to bring pants which can get wet. Note: I do not recommend you wear jeans while sailing as they get very heavy when wet. The Dock also has wet suit bottoms available for rental.

Gloves
I would recommend you sail for a few weeks before looking into buying gloves. More on that in the classroom.

Sun Protection
On the water, you are exposed to a double dose of UV rays - one directly from the sun and a second reflected off the water. Hats, sunscreen, etc. are strongly recommended, even on overcast days.

What NOT to bring on the water
Electronic equipment (pagers, cell phones, palm pilots, etc.), jewelry (especially anything around the neck which can catch on rigging), anything you don't want to get wet!