Buying a Wetsuit

When purchasing your first or next wetsuit, consider these important factors:

Purpose and location of use
Thickness
Design

A wetsuit is neoprene apparel designed for water sports like surfing, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, and recreational activities such as tubing, keeping you warm and comfortable in the water. Children’s wetsuits also serve as protective layers against sun exposure and cold water.

Contrary to popular belief, a wetsuit is not meant to keep you dry but rather traps a thin layer of water that your body warms.

1. Type of Wetsuit and Thickness Based on Temperature

Before diving into technical details, consider the water sport you are involved in. There are four main types of wetsuits: hooded fullsuit, fullsuit, shorty (spring suit), and Long Johns. Variations include full suits with short sleeves or shorties with long sleeves.

Since the primary purpose of a wetsuit is to keep you warm, choose the type based on the temperature of the water/air and the chill factor.

For instance, wind sports like surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing require thicker, warmer wetsuits that are flexible and durable. A full suit is recommended for the first purchase and a long-sleeve/short-sleeve shorty as a secondary.

Conversely, inland surfing typically occurs in warmer, calmer waters, requiring smaller suits (e.g., wakeboarding, flatland skimboarding, waterskiing). Here, a shorty (long/short-sleeved) is recommended first, followed by a fullsuit for winter/off-season.

SUP and kayaking often use a Long John (with a windproof layer if needed) due to the constant movement of shoulders and arms, which can be restrictive in a thick fullsuit.

We’ve created a table to help you choose the right thickness and type of wetsuit based on the waters you’ll be in. Research your spot beforehand as the chart is a guide, but personal needs and preferences also play a role. The bottom line: stay warm and comfortable!

2. How to Read the Thickness?

Temperature suitability varies based on activity level, outside temperature, and weight. Keep these factors in mind. The UV Lycra mentioned for the warmest conditions is a special sunscreen t-shirt for sun protection.

Wetsuit thickness is not always a single number. What do two (or even three) numbers divided by a slash mean?

The first number indicates neoprene thickness in the torso/hip area, and the number after the slash indicates thickness at the arms and legs. For three numbers, the first is torso thickness, the second is legs, and the third is arms. For example, a 4/3 mm wetsuit has 4 mm at the torso and 3 mm at the limbs. A 4/3/2 mm wetsuit has 4 mm at the torso, 3 mm at the legs, and 2 mm at the arms. This design maintains core temperature while allowing freedom of movement for the arms and legs.

3. Size and Design: Yes, It Matters...a Lot

Size

Choosing the right size wetsuit is crucial. A snug fit provides better insulation. A good wetsuit should fit like a second skin, trapping a thin layer of water between you and the suit without being too tight. Test the fit by lifting your arms over your head and stretching. It should slightly restrain but not restrict your movement. Perform a few squats and paddle with your arms in the air. If you can do these, you likely have a good fit.

The wetsuit should feel tight around your neck (without choking) as this area easily allows water entry.

Wetsuits come in standard sizes - XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, or UK equivalents - 4, 5, 8, 10, 12, 14. If you see an ‘S’ or ‘T’ after the size, it stands for short and tall versions of the standard size. For example, ST means size small/tall.

Design (Zips and Seaming)

The design affects water entry/exit. Zipper types and seaming are important features.

Chest zips are best for minimizing water entry, making the wetsuit warmer. This design is relatively newer.

Back zips allow easier access for both you and the water, making it feel colder. This older design is easier to access and is usually cheaper.

Front zips offer easy access for both you and the water, often making these wetsuits colder.

Seaming is crucial for warmth and water prevention.

Flatlock stitching means neoprene panels are stitched together on both sides of the wetsuit.

Sealed panels are blind-stitched and glued to prevent water entry, necessary for lower temperatures.

Sealed and taped wetsuits have a tape over the glue on the inside, trapping warm air.

4. What Makes a Good Wetsuit?

Neoprene quality varies. Good neoprene holds more air, offering better insulation and warmth. It should also be durable and stretchy.

A good wetsuit minimizes water penetration, fits well, insulates effectively, and is stretchy and durable. High-quality wetsuits are usually 1 mm thinner, more durable, stretchier, more comfortable, and offer the same insulation as thicker ones due to superior neoprene.