Boating & Fishing Apparel

Marine Apparel and Fishing Clothing Resources and Information

Marine apparel and fishing clothing not only look great– they also serve an important function for boaters. Marine environments can be particularly hazardous. Sun-protective clothing blocks harmful UV rays, while PFDs like life jackets will keep you afloat during emergency situations. PartsVu is thrilled to offer a wide selection of boating and fishing apparel for top brands like Aftco, Hook’d, Yamaha, Bajio, and others.

Looking for more boating and marine products? Check out our complete selection of Products and Accessories or shop boating and fishing apparel by category, including the following: 

• AFTCO Men's Fishing Apparel
• AFTCO Women's Fishing Apparel
• AFTCO Youth Fishing Apparel
• AFTCO Tackle
• AFTCO Hats
• AFTCO Bibs & Pants
• Vapor Elemental Wear
• Hook'd Fishing Gear Co.
• Sunglasses
• Hats & Caps
• Shirts
• Rainwear & Foul Weather Gear
• Watches

Boating and Fishing Apparel FAQs

What’s the difference between sunblock and sun-protective clothing? 

The main difference between sunblock and sun-protective clothing is that clothing like ours provides instant coverage without reapplying anything. I wouldn’t say that you don’t need sunblock if you have sun protection clothing, and you should still apply sunscreen, especially when clothing does not protect your skin.

The sun protection properties of sunblock and sun-protective clothing are also rated differently.

Sunblock sun protection is:

• Rated in SPF (sun protection factor) and protects you from ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun
• Calculated based on the time it takes exposed skin to redden
• Recommended to be applied to your skin 15-30 minutes before you go out into the sun
• Recommended to be reapplied every 2 hours (especially after swimming or sweating)

Clothing sun protection is:

• “The most effective form of sun protection” according to the Skin Cancer Foundation
• Ideally made from a densely woven material to minimize your skin’s exposure to sunlight
• Is rated in ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) as a measure of your skin’s exposure to UVB and UVA rays (UPF 50 allows only 1/50th of UV rays to penetrate the skin)
• Considered “excellent” protection by the Skin Cancer Foundation if rated UPF 50 or higher; the lowest rating is UPF 15

What are the Differences Between Life Jackets and PFDs?

First, let’s break down the general differences between the terms ‘life jacket,’ ‘life vest,’ and ‘PFD.’ Simply put, all life jackets and life vests are wearable PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices), but not all PFDs are life jackets, vests, or wearable, for that matter. A PFD is simply any device used to help a person stay afloat. This includes ring buoys, buoyant cushions, and inflatable belts. PFD designs include wearable and non-wearable styles, different types, and different performance levels.

How Do PFDs Work?

Standard PFDs use foam to stay afloat, though inflatable and hybrid designs are common as well. 

Inflatable PFDs rely on CO2 cylinders. They inflated either manually, by pulling on a string, or automatically through exposure to water. The primary benefit of inflatables is that they tend to be lightweight and less bulky than other options. However, you always run the risk of a malfunction if the inflatable isn’t in proper condition. More on this later. 

Regardless of their composition, the function of any PFD is to provide buoyancy if you unexpectedly find yourself in the water. Some are designed to simply assist the user in swimming. Others are designed to flip the wearer upright and allow them to breathe, even if they’re unconscious. Fatigue, injury, cold, or simply being a weak or non-swimmer are all conditions that may necessitate extra help.

What advantages do Yamaha hats or visors offer out on the water? 

The Yamaha Pro Fishing hats are made of moisture-wicking fabric and have a sleek, low profile. It also features an adjustable fit so you can make sure it’s not too tight or loose on you. This sporty and stylish hat will not only look great on you, but it will protect your head from the sun as well.

A similar visor from Yamaha is great for protecting your face. It’s also made of wicking fabric so that moisture and sweat won’t stay soaked in it. Moisture-wicking fabric is woven in such a way that it draws moisture from the interior to the exterior, where it can evaporate more easily. With the Pro Fishing logo on the front, this is the perfect visor for your next fishing trip.

What are the advantages of the Yamaha pro fishing long-sleeve t-shirt? 

This Yamaha Pro Fishing long sleeve tee is made of moisture-wicking, breathable fabric that keeps you dry and feeling fresh, even after a long day on the water. It has a UV protection rating of 50+ UPF, so you can be sure that when you’re wearing it, you’re getting all the sun protection you need.

What are some of the most popular boating and fishing apparel for kids? 

AFTCO – Youth Root Beer SS T-shirt

The youth Root Beer t-shirt is sweet and smooth, like the first sip of an ice-cold root beer on a sizzling summer day. AFTCO’s latest youth style features a marlin graphic and their Any Fish, Any Water tagline. Their goal is to inspire the newest generation of anglers to ensure the sport of fishing lives on for years to come. Youth anglers will be hooked on this soft, breathable 60/40 cotton/poly blend t-shirt all season long.

AFTCO Youth Sooner SS T-shirt

Family-owned and operated, the American Fishing Tackle Company (AFTCO) represents unparalleled quality, performance and reliability when it counts most. Worn across the globe, AFTCO’s fishing clothing is designed to handle the harshest elements. Worn by professional anglers, AFTCO’s youth designs will hook kids early, allowing the next generation to fall in love with fishing.

AFTCO Mossy Oak Hooded Performance Shirt

This Hooded Camo Fishing Shirt is a great addition coming in two of Mossy Oaks most popular patterns, and kids love it! Great designs in an 88% polyester 12% Spandex shirt and a quick drying fabric means kids will be comfortable all day, no matter the weather conditions.

The Original AFTCO Fishing Shorts – for Kids

The “Original” AFTCO short is now offered in kids sizing! Introduced in 1989, the “Original” AFTCO fishing short has been the choice of serious fishermen nationwide. These AFTCO shorts for kids are constructed of Dupont Supplex 3-ply nylon and has been treated with a stain-resistant coating. It is an extremely strong and supple fabric that is also lightweight and super comfortable day in and day out.

Elemental Vapor Wear UPF50+ Sun Protective Shirt for Toddlers

These shorts have seven pockets (including a cordura-lined pliers pocket), so you will have a place for everything. It also has a double-layered rear for extra strength. 27 bar tacks keep these fishing shorts strong in all the right places. AFTCO embroidery on the left pocket. Elastic waist + belt loops. AFTCO kids’ shorts are built to handle all they can throw at them.

Elemental Vapor Wear UPF50+ Sun Protective Shirt for Toddlers

Keeping sunscreen on the little ones while on the water can be challenging. However, this shirt for Elemental Vapor Wear is a game changer. 50+ UPF protection is excellent when on the boat, at the pool, or just spending time outdoors.

What makes AFTCO boating and fishing apparel so unique? 

The Samurai Sun Protection Hoodie reigns supreme as the most popular AFTCO outerwear. It features UPF 50+ sun protection, quick dry tech, and plenty of colors to choose from. Superior AFTCO construction means that this stylish hoodie will last you countless days on the water!

On the accessories side, AFTCO doesn’t disappoint. The Men’s Palapa Straw Hat and Women’s Hammerhead Straw Hat are crowd favorites. Quality, performance, and reliability take a central role even in these simple hats.

What makes Hook’d Fishing Gear Co. boating and fishing apparel so unique? 

Hook’d Fishing Gear Co. boasts a variety of shirts, hats, and accessories featuring fun colors and unique designs. Many Hook’d shirts come in unique colors with UPF 50+ sun protective fabric and feature the eye-catching Hook’d logo. The Women’s “Palm Island” Long Sleeve and Men’s “Logo” Long Sleeve styles continue to be some of our most popular. Still, it’s worth browsing the full catalog as many other styles aren’t far behind.