Base Layer, Neoprene Shirts, & Metalite Tops for Kiteboarding

Base Layer, Polypropylene, Neoprene Shirts, & Metalite Tops for Kiteboarding

When engaging in outdoor sports, especially water sports, you undoubtedly know that the weather will not always be warm and sunny. With that said, base layer clothing is essential for keeping you warm. Base layers are the most important layers and are worn under your wetsuit or just under your boardshorts and quick dry water shirt.

Polypropylene is a material often used by the military as base layer clothing. This synthetic material helps the wearer stay warm and dry without all of the bulk which some other clothing materials can cause. They give you the added layer of clothing and take away the moisture while being lightweight in general. Polypropylene materials are perfect for watersports and for under a wetsuit, when you need a bit of added warmth. Unlike lycra rashguards that retain water and keep you cooler, polypropylene shirts will wick away the water to allow it to dry quickly and keep you warmer.

Metalite is much thinner and warmer than Polypropylene and reflects body heat back into your body.

Best Choice - Cabrinha 2mm Long Sleeve Neoprene Shirt. S5 200% super stretch neoprene feels like a second skin!

Better Choice - NPX Hellfire Polypropylene Shirts

Good Choice - DaKine Polypro Shirts

Neoprene shirts are like a wetsuit top. Made from Neoprene, most of them have a smooth skin to stop wind penetration in the core areas. They then offer super stretch material in the arms and where you need it to increase your range of motion.

Great by themselves or as a layer to add warmth under your wetsuit.

I use these neoprene shirts a lot as they are very easy to get on and off and really keep my core warm!

Neoprene Shirts - Full neoprene shirts. Check out the NPX Heetseeker 1.5mm apex neoprene shirt with titanium lining!

Neo Lycra Shirts - Combines a neoprene core with Lycra arms for additional mobility in the arms and reduced costs. Check out the DaKine Neo Insulator Shirts

Thermal Lycra or Polypropylene Shirts - Thermal lycra is very different from normal lycra. These shirts feature a moisture wicking polypropylene lining. Unlike normal lycra, these shirts will wick moisture away from the fabric to keep you dry and warmer. Thicker than our normal Lycra featured on our rashguard page. Check out the DaKine PolyPro Shirts