Riding a jet ski doesn’t have to end when summer does. In many places, fall and even winter riding is possible if you understand the risks and prepare the right way.
I find cold weather riding comes down to knowing temperature limits, wearing the right gear, and adjusting how you ride when conditions turn cold. And above all else, know your body’s limits.
Below is everything you need to know to decide how cold is too cold and what you must wear to stay safe and comfortable.
This article is based on my personal experience and general safety information. It is not medical, legal, or professional advice. Always follow your jet ski manufacturer’s recommendations, local laws, and consult a professional or doctor before riding in extreme conditions.
What is too cold? (Water vs. Air Temperature)
When it comes to cold weather rides, water temperature matters more than air temperature.
A sunny 50°F day can feel manageable, until you fall into 45°F water. Cold water pulls heat from your body far faster than cold air, which is why riders often underestimate the danger. Plus, when you get out of the water into the cold air it feels even worse and it’s much harder for you get warm and dry off.
Here are general guidelines I follow:
- Above 60°F water: Manageable with proper jet ski wetsuit gear
- 50–60°F water: Cold, requires full wetsuit or drysuit
- Below 50°F water: High risk without professional-grade cold-weather gear. I don’t do it at this temp, too cold for me.
- Below 40°F water: Generally unsafe for recreational riding. DON’T DO IT!!!
I’m not going to lie, I’m a baby when it comes to the cold and rarely ride if the temp is below 50°F. I’ve had too many jet ski accidents, so I tend to play it safer these days.
Wind chill also plays a role. At speed, cold air strips heat rapidly, even if you never fall in. If a brief swim would be dangerous, riding probably is too. Here is a good article on the subject of cold water and the dangers of swimming in it.
Jet Skis are faster in cold air!
One interesting thing about cold weather is that your jet ski often performs better.
Cold air is denser than warm air, which can improve engine combustion and throttle response.
You will notice:
- Snappier acceleration.
- More consistent engine performance.
- Less heat soak during aggressive riding.
Cold water can also improve handling and traction, especially in calmer off-season waterways with less boat traffic. The PWC may feel more planted in turns and more predictable at speed.
Along with many watercraft taking in lake water to cool the engine, you get better performance and a better running engine, too.
That said, mechanical reliability depends on proper maintenance. The cold is worse on batteries, seals, and fuel systems, so performance gains only matter if your PWC is ready for the colder temps.
Warning!
The biggest danger of cold weather jet ski rides isn’t discomfort…it’s cold shock.
Cold shock happens within seconds of falling into cold water and can cause:
- Gasping and uncontrolled breathing.
- Rapid heart rate.
- Loss of muscle control.
Even strong swimmers can drown if they aren’t prepared.
Hypothermia can develop surprisingly quickly in cold water, especially below 60°F, and it reduces strength, coordination, and decision-making making it harder to reboard your ski or signal for help.
That is why if it’s too cold, just keep the jet ski at home. I know some people take their pontoons and other boats out, but you’re less likely to fall in the water on a big boat. Many jet skis are made to get wet, and you getting sick or drowning is not worth it. There will be more warmer days soon enough.
You’ll need to winterize again!
Don’t forget, if the air temps get below 40°F for 24 hours, I like to start the winterizing process for my jet skis.
Everytime you take the jet ski back out for a ride, it will need to be winterized again as soon as it run in the water; it’s not winterized anymore. Well, the engine, exhaust, and intercooler will need to have the water removed from them again. The fuel stabilizer and other items will not need to be added again. Keep that in mind if you’re itching to ride when it’s cold as it will cost you a semi-winterization each time!
What to Wear in The Cold Weather?
Your clothing choice determines how cold you can safely ride.
Wetsuits
Wetsuits trap a thin layer of water that your body warms.
- Best for cool but not extreme cold
- Typically 4/3mm to 5/4mm thickness for cold riding
- Affordable and flexible
Limitations: You still get wet, and prolonged immersion becomes dangerous in very cold water.
Drysuits
Drysuits keep you completely dry. Or, at least they try, ask me how I know.
- Best for near-freezing water
- Layer insulation underneath for warmth
- Expensive but dramatically safer
For serious cold weather jet skiing, drysuits are the gold standard. Like I said, a drysuit is a good option, but not 100% perfect, especially if you ride rough. It could be that I’m just a baby for the cold weather, but this is your best option if you want to ride when it’s cold.
Other Gear
Cold-weather riding requires more than just a suit. You would be a fool to not also include these items.
Must-have gear includes:
- Neoprene gloves for grip and hand warmth
- Riding boots to protect feet from numbness
- Neoprene hood or balaclava to reduce heat loss
- USCG-approved life jacket
- Kill switch lanyard attached to you at all times!
- Waterproof communication device
- Emergency whistle (required in most states)
Tips for Riding a Jet Ski Safely in Cold and Windy Conditions
Riding a jet ski in cold and windy conditions requires a more cautious mindset than warm-weather riding. Wind chill at speed can drop your effective temperature quickly, even on days that don’t feel extreme at the dock. Cold air also stiffens muscles and slows reaction time, which can affect balance and control. Because of this, PWC riders should ease into the throttle and turns rather than riding aggressively. Staying mentally alert is just as important as staying warm.
Cold-weather riding also demands smarter route planning. Staying closer to shore reduces exposure time if something goes wrong and makes self-rescue more realistic. But not too close to avidly sucking things up. Rough water becomes more dangerous in cold conditions because repeated spray accelerates heat loss. Shorter rides help prevent fatigue and hypothermia, especially when wind speeds increase. Whenever possible, ride with a someone else so help is immediately available.
Getting ready before launching can make a significant difference in safety. Always check wind forecasts, not just air temperature, since gusts can build dangerous chop quickly. Make sure your kill switch lanyard is attached so the ski doesn’t drift away if you fall. Warm up your body before riding to reduce stiffness and improve circulation. Finally, let someone know your riding plan so help can be sent if you don’t return as expected.
Or simply, don’t ride when it’s too cold.
