The pandemic threw a wrench in many of our summer plans, from vacations, to weddings, to sports, to the everyday activities we used to take for granted. Yet, that doesn’t mean all summer fun must be canceled!
The beauty of the great outdoors is that the free-moving air prevents airborne germs from transmitting as easily from one person to another. That means outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and camping, are still fair game—as long as you observe social distancing rules, of course!
With the summer almost over, the time for enjoying water activities is almost up. This year, you should take extra advantage of water activities, since they are, for the most part, pandemic-friendly.
Whether you’re a seasoned lover of all activities involving a body of water or not, there’s a water activity for everyone. Here are a few ideas for making the most of the end of the summer during these tough times.
Single-person kayaking or canoeing
Single-person kayaking and canoeing are great pandemic-friendly activities. You’ll enjoy the sun and the beauty of nature while getting in a nice workout and keeping your distance. You can enjoy this activity alone or with friends (in separate boats).
Surfing
If you live in a coastal area, you can take advantage of your proximity to the sun and surf and ride the waves! Whether you’re a pro or have never touched a surfboard, now is the perfect time to hang ten.
Stand-up paddleboarding
Like surfing, solitary water activities like stand-up paddleboarding, boogie boarding, and other activities in open bodies of water are fun and safe ways to enjoy the summer.
Sprinklers, Slip-N-Slides, and kiddie pools
If you have kids, you know how much fun you can have right in your backyard with the help of a little water! Turn on the sprinklers, break out the Slip-n-Slide, or fill up your kiddie pool, and let your kids go to town.
As long as it’s just your family involved, this activity is pandemic-safe. However, it may not be safe to invite over friends unless they’ve recently tested negative for COVID-19.
Avoid boating, public pools, and crowded lakes.
While there are plenty of safe water activities, there are some not-so-safe options, too. Avoid any close gatherings, whether on a boat, at a public pool, or at a crowded lake. Just because you’re outside doesn’t mean the virus can’t transmit to others if people are gathered closely.
Do not use cloth face coverings in water settings.
Just because you’re outside doesn’t mean you can ditch the face mask! But it’s also not a good idea to wear a cotton or cloth-material face covering. Instead, fashion a mask out of waterproof breathable fabric for use during water activities.
Seattle Fabrics has a broad selection of breathable, waterproof fabrics in various colors and materials, as well as the sewing equipment you need to make the perfect waterproof face mask.