Paddling Pants + Shorts

Vaikobi's range of paddling shorts and pants is designed to meet the specific needs of paddlers across various disciplines like kayaking, outrigger, surf ski, dragon boat etc, offering a combination of comfort, performance, and durability. A key feature that sets Vaikobi's paddling pants and shorts apart is the use of high-quality materials such as UV50+ spandex, airprene, neoprene, and super soft hydrofleece fabrications, to keep you warm while paddling so you can stay out longer.

Vaikobi's range of paddling shorts and pants is designed to meet the specific needs of paddlers across various disciplines like kayaking, outrigger, surf ski, dragon boat etc, offering a combination...
Filter by: Filter by:
FAQs
What do I wear on my legs while paddling?

Protecting your seat and legs while paddling for long periods makes a real difference to comfort and performance. Vaikobi offers options across all conditions:

  • Warm conditions — UV paddle shorts or pants in quick-dry, UPF50+ fabric for sun protection without overheating.
  • Cool conditions — VCOLD paddle pants with neoprene padding in the seat area for warmth and durability. Choose between the Hydroflex Pant (Warm), Flex Pants (Warmer), or GBS 3mm Paddle Pant (Warmest) depending on conditions.
  • Cold conditions — for the coldest sessions, step up to a FlexForce 2mm wetsuit pant or the VCOLD GBS 3mm Paddle Pant for maximum protection.

Read our blog on what to wear paddling or shop all paddling bottoms.

What VCOLD pants is right for you?

Vaikobi has three VCOLD pants for cold water watersports — here's how to choose:

  • VCOLD GBS 3mm Paddle Pant — for freezing to cold conditions. The thickest and warmest option, with GBS liquid seams to stop water creeping in, a high back design to protect the lower back in a seated paddling position, and a plush inner fleece lining. Best for conditions where you can see your breath in the air.
  • VCOLD Flex Paddle Pant — for cold to cool conditions (5°C and above). Vaikobi's most versatile pant, using Airprene fabrication that breathes as your body heats up — so you won't overheat if the sun comes out or the wind drops mid-session. A best seller for good reason.
  • VCOLD Hydroflex Pant — for cool to mild conditions (up to ~17°C). A lightweight quick-dry microfleece pant that feels more like a thermal legging than a wetsuit pant — ideal for those who don't like neoprene but still need cold water protection.

For warm water paddling and watersports, see our UV range of pants instead. Read the full guide to choosing the right VCOLD pant.

How does VCOLD FLEX work?

VCOLD Flex is Vaikobi's intelligent thermal regulation technology designed for cold water watersports including paddling, sailing, foiling, kayaking, and SUP. Unlike traditional insulation that simply traps heat, VCOLD Flex actively regulates your body temperature - keeping you warm when you need it and allowing excess heat and moisture to escape as your intensity increases.

The fabric combines a thermal fleece inner lining for insulation, a wind-resistant outer surface, and a high-stretch construction for unrestricted movement. The result is all-day comfort across a wide range of conditions and activity levels, without the overheating associated with traditional cold-weather gear. Read more about how VCOLD Flex works to keep you warm.

What is the best gear combination for cold weather paddling?

For cold weather paddling, layering is key. Start with a VCOLD thermal base layer - choose between the Base Layer Top, Hydroflex Top, or Flex Top depending on conditions — and pair with either Flex Pants, Hydroflex Pants or wetsuit pants for your lower body. Add a VDRY smock or 1/2 zip vest as your outer layer to keep wind and water spray off your core. Vaikobi smocks and vests are designed to be worn under a PFD and feature waterproof taped seams to prevent water flushing up the sleeves, plus ventilation panels to keep you warm without overheating. For the coldest sessions, layer a FlexForce wetsuit underneath for maximum protection. Complete the kit with neoprene socks and gloves to protect your extremities. Read our cold water paddling gear and safety guide for more, or shop the Stay Warm collection.