Thinking about riding your jet ski in winter? You can — as long as you’ve got the right gear and a smart approach. This guide will help you ride safely and stay warm through the colder months.

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Is It Safe to Ride in Winter?

Jet skiing in winter can be both safe and enjoyable — but it’s not the same as summer. Cold air and water increase the risk of fatigue and hypothermia, especially if you’re not prepared. The trick is knowing what conditions to expect and how to manage them with the right precautions.

Top Tips:

Ride in pairs or stay close to others
Check wind chill and air + water temps before heading out
Keep your sessions shorter to reduce exposure

How Cold Is Too Cold?

Comfort and safety aren’t just about the thermometer — they’re about how it feels when you’re riding at speed with cold water spraying your legs and wind hitting your chest. Use this guide to help decide what gear setup makes sense for your conditions.

Water Temp	Air Temp	Recommended Setup
22°C+	Any	Springsuit or neoprene vest/top
18–22°C	16–25°C	2mm long sleeve top + wetsuit pants OR thin steamer (3/2mm)
15–18°C	12–20°C	Full steamer (3/2mm or 4/3mm), gloves optional
12–15°C	10–18°C	Steamer + neoprene gloves/shoes; consider tour coat or windproof layer
<12°C	<15°C	Steamer + gloves + shoes + outer tour coat; rash vest or thermal underlayer optional

Note: Wind chill matters — even mild temps can feel freezing at 50km/h+. Dress like you expect to get wet.

Layering Tips for Comfort

When you layer right, cold-weather riding doesn’t have to be uncomfortable.

Think in layers, not thickness.

A wetsuit is just one part of the puzzle — pairing it with a wind-blocking outer layer or thermal inner lining can dramatically increase warmth.

Protect your extremities.

Your hands, feet, and head are the first places to lose heat. Choose gloves and booties that offer thermal protection without sacrificing grip or flexibility.

Wind matters more than you think.

Even moderate speeds on a jet ski can turn a mild day bitter cold. Always factor in wind chill when planning what to wear.

Adjust your setup to suit your ride.

A quick morning spin might only need a light layer, while longer winter rides require a full insulating setup. Dress for the conditions and the duration.

Safety Considerations

Even experienced riders can underestimate how quickly the cold drains your energy and awareness. A few simple safety habits go a long way when winter riding conditions change fast.

#1

Let someone know your plan. Before heading out, always let a friend or family member know where you’re riding and when you plan to return.

#2

Stay connected. Bring a waterproof phone case or a marine radio to ensure you can call for help if needed.

#3

Stick to familiar zones. Avoid riding solo in remote or unfamiliar areas where help may be hard to reach.

#4

Recognise when it’s time to call it. Cold fatigue sets in faster than you think — if you’re shivering or feeling slow to react, head in early.

Essential Winter Riding Gear

Building the right cold-weather setup means more than just throwing on a wetsuit. You’ll want gear that layers well, dries quickly, and gives you mobility without sacrificing warmth. Here's what we recommend as a winter essentials kit:

Wetsuit (Steamer)

Your base layer. Full length and at least 3/2mm for warmth.

Wetsuit Pants + Top

A flexible alternative. Easier transitions, good for short rides or layering.

Tour Coat

Worn over a wetsuit. Ideal for keeping warm without limiting movement.

Gloves & Shoes

Vital for grip, warmth, and circulation. Prioritise fit and thermal lining.

Get ready to ride

Winter riding can be one of the best times on the water — quiet, scenic, and uncrowded.

With the right gear and a smart approach, it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. For the right gear and advice, check out our PWC Winter Essentials range to make sure you’re prepped for your next cold-water adventure.

Shop Winter Essentials