For outdoors-types, the year-round warm weather in Cayman is a dream come true. Free time can be spent at the beach, on boats, under water, cycling, running, playing sports or simply chilling out. As wonderful as it is to be able to spend more time outside than inside, the reality is that eventually sun, salt, sea and wind do all take their toll on our hair, skin, eyes – even the clothes we wear.
Wearing suitable apparel for outdoor activities - be it sportswear, swimwear, hats or sunglasses - is not just a question of vanity or fashion. It’s a practical solution to a real problem; the fact that it can also be stylish, classy and of high quality is an added bonus.
When it comes to water based activities, of which there are many here, one wants to look the part, of course, but it’s also wise to combine that with a degree of protection from the elements.
Fortunately fashion and technology have teamed up for our benefit, creating great looks in durable, sun- and salt-resistant fabrics.
Board shorts made from special fast-drying cloth are ideal for those who are in and out of the water all day long and the prints and designs carry off the surfer look perfectly.
Rash guards are a great way to shield the skin from the worst of the sun’s damaging rays, while being thin enough to not cause overheating. Designed to be worn in the water as much as out of it, they also protect from potential jelly fish stings and coral grazes. Kids’ versions may even have ultra violet protection embedded in the fabric to give higher sun protection.
Eyes can be neglected when it comes to sun protection but it is as important to cover them up as much as the skin. At the very least one should be wearing sunglasses with a total UV filter, but polarized lenses – which cut out the glare, especially if one works on or near the sea – are ideal. Wrap around styles that fit snugly are less likely to be lost to the ocean if you accidentally jump in wearing them, and wide arms will stop the sun creeping in from the sides.
Practical footwear is equally important when one is in and out of the sea. You need something you can slip on and off easily and that will not be damaged by a little salt and water. Flip flops are a perennially popular choice, but alternatively, shoes made entirely from water resistant plastics and rubber can offer additional support for the feet and exceptional durability.
Kirk Marine’s brand new store now stocks a wide variety of high end active wear and beach apparel from hats to fishing shirts, with a number of exclusive brands such as Columbia, Salt Life, B Swim, Yolo, Shimano and Platypus for kids. WH