Rowers must wear spandex/tight/form-fitting gear to practice every day, top and bottom.

Get a crew bag! Put everything in it that you MIGHT need. Bring it every day!

NOTE: there is a grace period of one week at the beginning of the season for everyone to get the appropriate gear. After that, without the required clothing you will not be allowed in the boat.

The best thing to wear for rowing is a uni - these are one-piece uniforms designed for rowing.

  • Practice unis are strongly suggested, as you are not permitted to practice in your racing uni. 

    • Rowers all over the world at every level wear them, and you will too. 

  • Returning rowers may wear their old Shaker racing uni only if they have one reserved for racing. 

  • Rowing-specific gear is highly encouraged. Check JL Racing and Boathouse Sports for rowing gear. 

  • A great place to pick up practice unis and trou (rowing shorts) is regattas - the manufacturers often have good deals on hand.

Bottoms

  • Compression shorts from Underarmour, Nike, Adidas, Target, etc are ok for novices. Varsity should have a practice uni or rowing trou.

  • You don’t need any padding as you’d find in cycling shorts or shorts designed for football or baseball. Ease of movement is key. 

  • Make sure any shorts are long enough (come down mid-thigh) and that they are not designed to be underwear. 

Tops

  • Any close-fitting shirt will do; non-cotton materials designed to wick sweat away are best.

  • Cotton tanks are permitted in warmer weather. 

Other items 

  • Running shoes. 

  • At least one water bottle, DO NOT RELY ON DISPOSABLE PLASTIC WATER BOTTLES. 

  • Eye protection: sunglasses and/or hat. 

  • Sunscreen (even in winter). 

Cold weather rowing means thinking ahead a bit more. When it is cold, the rules still apply, but: 

  • We have some flexibility for pants/sweatpants (since long pants are less likely to get caught in the tracks of the sliding seats). 

  • Rowing gear companies make long pants/leggings/tights which can be hugely beneficial.

  • Tops must be snug - though you’d be surprised what you can fit under a uni top. 

  • Vests are great. 

  • Always bring a change of clothes but especially for cold or rain. 

  • Cold = bigger, warmer socks. Remember the boats have shoes in them, but you cannot believe how much more pleasant your row will be (and your ride home) if your feet are warm and dry. 

  • Rain gear. Check the weather each morning (not by looking outside, but on your phone or computer!) 

  • Warm hat

Other things you MAY be asked to bring every day: 

  • Seat pad (your coach will let you know and provide you with one. They are for changing your relative height in the boat - not comfort). 

  • Snack 

  • Foam roller