What to Wear Jet Skiing in Chicago

Assume you will get wet, and assume Lake Michigan is colder than the air. Dress for the water, not the forecast.

What works

• A swimsuit, board shorts, or quick-dry athletic clothing.
• A rash guard or light layer — the lakefront wind bites once you are moving.
• Secured sunglasses with a strap, plus sunscreen; the glare off the lake is serious.
• Water shoes or sandals with a strap. Flip-flops disappear.

What to leave in the car

• Loose hats, jewelry, and anything you'd be upset to lose overboard.
• Cotton hoodies and jeans — soaked, they stay cold all afternoon.

Early and late season

Lake Michigan stays cold well into summer. Early- and late-season riders should add a wetsuit top or extra layer, since wind chill at speed is what makes riders quit early.