Steering Toward Success: Coxswain’s Fall Season Essentials

Head race season is just around the corner! As coxswains swap side-by-side strategy and start sequences for course maps, 5k plans and perfecting their best “YIELD!”, now is the perfect time to open up those dry bags and double check that you have everything you need to be successful this fall.

Tools

Let’s start with the basics: keeping essential tools in your dry bag is vital for handling equipment issues on the go. Knowing your boat really helps here: identify whether your wrenches need to be metric or imperial and check footplates and oarlocks to see whether you may need an allen wrench or a screwdriver.

Hardware

Just because spacers float doesn’t mean they can’t float away from you. Keep extra spacers on hand, as well as a bolt set or two, wing nuts, thumb screws and any other hardware your boat may require while out on the water.

Sun shirt 

Training for head races means long workouts and plenty of time out in the sun. Grab a breathable, long sleeve shirt in a light color to protect your skin and wick away moisture. If your club requires high visibility apparel, opt for our Hi-Viz Loose-Fit Performance Shirt.

Notebook

Keep track of lineups, drills, race plans, technical feedback and anything else that comes to mind with a notebook and pencil. You can even find waterproof notepads to keep your notes pristine through any rogue backsplash or rain.

Electrical tape

For keeping wiring out of the way, making quick fixes to equipment and, perhaps most importantly, labeling your wrenches so they don’t go home in rowers’ pockets on rigging day.

Floatie keychain

For items you’d prefer to keep above the water!

Sunglasses

99% of coxswains agree*: steering is easier when you can see where you’re going. Pick up a pair of polarized sunglasses to minimize glare from the water and match the frames to your team colors for extra style points.

*Unofficial poll

Racing unisuit

Perform your best on race day! Be sure to order any HOCR custom gear by August 30 for home delivery or September 6 for delivery to Boston. Get started by contacting your account manager today!

Hat

Cap off your coxing outfit with a breathable, quick-drying hat for sun protection and style. SHOP HATS & VISORS >

Watch

A waterproof watch with a simple stopwatch function can act as a backup for your CoxBox and ensure you make it to the start line on time.

Thermal tights

When the weather starts to cool, you’ll be the first one to notice. These unisex thermo tights are lined on the inside with a snug fit that allows you to add additional layers on top as the temperature plunges.

Waterproof jacket

An essential for rainy days, backsplash-enthusiast-stroke-seat days and just about any given day in a bowloader, our Regatta Jacket is 100% waterproof with a cozy fleece lining to keep you warm and dry no matter the conditions.

Tape and band-aids

As many athletes return to the water or even pick up an oar for the first time this fall, blisters are inevitable. Your rowers will thank you for having tape on hand to patch up sore fingers.

Beanie

No need to sacrifice visibility when the weather starts to cool. Our Hi-Viz beanie works overtime to keep your ears cozy, your headset on, and your crew visible. SHOP ALL HI-VIZ >

Looking for more coxing wardrobe inspiration? Check out our full range of apparel and accessories on JL Athletics!