Clothes for a canoe trip on the Gudenå river

Short answer: For a canoe trip on the Gudenå river, clothes should be soft, dry quickly and be easy to put on and take off in layers. Choose something that does not chafe when you sit still for hours, and bring a dry set in a waterproof bag for when you land.

Why a canoe trip needs its own clothes

You sit almost still for many hours with your arms moving and your body close to the water. That means you can get warm from the effort and cold from the wind over the river. The clothes therefore need to be adjustable, and you should notice when to take a layer off or put one on.

The layer next to the skin

The first layer should be soft and smooth so it does not chafe your back against the seat or under the life jacket. Seams that lie flat are an advantage when you sit for a long time. You can see what others choose among the bestsellers from Copenhagen Bamboo if you want somewhere to start.

Moisture and splashes

Even on a calm day you get water on your clothes from the paddle, and if you are unlucky a wave comes over the side. Wet clothes should ideally dry quickly, and you should have something dry to change into on land. Never bring the only set in the canoe without a waterproof bag.

Fit in a canoe

You sit low and lean forward to paddle, so clothes must not pull across the shoulders and back. Choose a top with room to lift your arms without riding up over your stomach. Look at the range for men if you want to see what exists for everyday life and the outdoors.

Socks and feet

Your feet often rest at the bottom of the canoe, where some water can collect. Bring a pair of socks to change into when you land, and let the wet ones dry on a stone. Look at the bamboo socks while you pack. If you wear shoes in the canoe, choose socks without rough seams.

Sun and wind on the river

The river is open, and the sun can be stronger than you expect, while the wind makes the air cool. Think about how much skin is covered, and choose a top with long sleeves if you want to protect your arms. Remember something for your head too, for example a cap you already own.

Packing for several days

If you stay overnight along the river, pack a few light things rather than many heavy ones. A sweatshirt for the evening, two T-shirts and a few extra pairs of socks cover many needs. Divide the clothes into several small bags so one wet bag does not spoil everything, and put the most important things on top.

Washing after the trip

When you get home, the clothes need airing and washing. Wash them following the care label, usually at a low temperature and without fabric softener, which can leave a film on the fabric. Rinse the clothes if they have been in contact with river water, and let them dry completely so they do not smell damp.

Frequently asked questions

What should I wear for a canoe trip on the Gudenå?

Start with a soft layer next to the skin and bring something warmer to put on and take off. Pack a dry set in a waterproof bag so you can change when you land.

Can I wear cotton on a canoe trip?

You can, but cotton dries slowly and gets heavy when wet. Think about whether you have something dry to change into, and pack extra.

How do I keep clothes dry in the canoe?

Use a waterproof bag or barrel for the clothes and put it low in the canoe. Pack in small bags so a leak does not spoil everything.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.