Sunburnt in Scotland? Aye, it happens!

Sunburnt in Scotland? Aye, it happens!

Don’t Be Fooled by the Scottish Weather: How the Sun Can Catch You Out on the Water

We all know the Scottish weather is famously unpredictable. One minute it’s chucking it down, the next the sun pops out and you’re stripping off your waterproofs. But when you’re out paddling — especially on a calm day — that sunshine can have a much bigger impact than you think.

At Och Aye Canoe, I see it often: folk underestimate how strong the sun can be on the water, especially in Scotland. Here’s how it can affect you, and how to stay safe (and comfortable!) on your adventures.

☀️ Sunburn Happens – Even in Scotland

You don’t need 30°C heat to get sunburnt. The sun’s UV rays still break through the clouds, and when you're out on the water, they bounce off the surface — meaning you're getting hit from above and below.

I’ve seen people come back from a breezy paddle looking like lobsters, completely unaware they were burning.

✅ Top Tips:

  • Wear sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher — and reapply every 2 hours (more if you’re splashing about).

  • Don’t forget ears, backs of hands, and your nose.

  • Even on overcast days, UV rays still get through – sunscreen is a year-round essential.


🕶️ Glare & Eye Damage

Sunlight reflecting off the water can be dazzling. Over time, that glare can lead to eye strain, headaches, or even long-term damage to your vision.

✅ Top Tips:

  • Invest in polarised sunglasses with UV protection — they reduce glare and help you spot hazards under the surface too.  I wear Kyloe in the Wild sunglasses, I also like these as they don't tend to slip off my face.

  • Use a retainer strap so they don’t end up in the water!

🌡️ Dehydration & Heat Exhaustion

It might not feel hot, but paddling is hard work — and in the sun, you can get dehydrated quickly without realising. Dehydration affects your performance, your concentration, and your body’s ability to regulate temperature.

✅ Top Tips:

  • Bring plenty of water and sip regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

  • Avoid too much caffeine before paddling.

  • Take breaks in the shade when possible.

🧢 Heatstroke Can Happen Here Too

It can happen in Scotland, especially in sheltered inland spots or when paddling for long periods. Wearing wetsuits or drysuits adds to the heat stress too.  Remember I teach first aid courses too - contact me for info and prices.

Warning Signs:

  • Headache

  • Dizziness

  • Confusion

  • Nausea

  • Flushed skin

  • Feeling very hot but not sweating

✅ Top Tips:

  • Wear light, breathable layers when conditions allow.

  • Take regular breaks and cool down in the shade.

  • Get off the water and seek help if someone shows signs of heatstroke.

🧴 Sunscreen & SUPs: A Slippery Combo

One safety note: oily sunscreen on your legs can make paddleboards dangerously slippery. If you’re kneeling or transitioning to standing, it’s easy to slip.

✅ Top Tip:

  • Apply sunscreen, then give it 15–20 minutes to soak in before launching your board.

🌥️ Don’t Be Fooled by Cloud Cover

Scottish skies might look grey, but UV rays can still do their damage. In fact, people often burn more on cloudy days because they don’t protect themselves as carefully.

🛶 Paddle Smart, Paddle Safe

At Och Aye Canoe, I believe in enjoying the outdoors safely. It’s easy to get caught out by the sun in Scotland — but with a few simple steps, you can enjoy your time on the water without the burn, the glare, or the dehydration.

If you’re not sure what gear to bring, or want tips for paddling safely in all weathers, just ask. I'm always happy to help!

 ☀️🕶️

 

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