Buying your first wetsuit? Here’s what you need to know upfront:
- Fit: A wetsuit should feel snug like a second skin. Too loose, and water will circulate; too tight, and it’ll restrict movement.
- Thickness: Match the wetsuit’s thickness to the water temperature. For example, 3/2mm suits work for moderate conditions (60°F-65°F), while colder waters (50°F-55°F) need 5/4mm suits with booties and gloves.
- Material Quality: Neoprene types and seam construction impact durability and warmth. Look for features like limestone-based neoprene or glued and blind-stitched seams for better performance.
- Sport-Specific Design: Different activities need different wetsuits. Surfing suits prioritize flexibility, diving suits focus on insulation, and triathlon suits are streamlined for speed.
Quick Tip: Always try on the wetsuit and test mobility before buying. A good fit and proper care will ensure it lasts longer.
Now, let’s dive deeper into these points to help you make the right choice.
How to Choose a Wetsuit Thickness, Fitting, & Type
1. Getting the Right Fit
A well-fitted wetsuit helps maintain body heat by reducing water circulation. Accurate measurements are key to ensuring the suit performs as intended.
Taking Accurate Measurements
To find the right wetsuit, start with these measurements:
- Height: Stand straight against a wall with your heels touching it. Use a book on your head to mark your height and measure from the floor.
- Chest: Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your chest, just under your armpits. Measure once while inhaling and once while exhaling, then calculate the average.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline, just above your belly button and below your rib cage.
Common Fit Problems to Check
When trying on a wetsuit, keep an eye out for these fit issues:
-
Too Loose:
- Water constantly enters around the ankles, wrists, or neck.
- Baggy areas in the legs, arms, shoulders, or lower back.
- Extra material bunching at joints.
-
Too Tight:
- Breathing feels restricted.
- Limited arm movement, especially overhead.
- Discomfort during movements like squatting.
- Noticeable pressure points.
"Simple - A wetsuit should be snug, shouldn't restrict your movement and be designed for the type of swimming you want to do." (Peak Swims)
Pro Tips for the Perfect Fit
- Wetsuits often feel tighter on land but loosen slightly in water.
- Pay attention to the fit around your lower back and core to minimize water entry.
- The neck seal should be snug but not uncomfortable.
- Try out movements you'll perform in the water to check mobility.
If you fall between sizes, consult the brand's specific size guide or talk to a wetsuit expert. Sizing can vary across manufacturers, so always reference the guide for your chosen brand.
Once you’ve nailed the fit, you’re ready to consider thickness and material quality for the final decision.
2. Choosing Wetsuit Thickness
Understanding Thickness Numbers
Wetsuit thickness impacts both warmth and flexibility. Numbers like "3/2mm" or "4/3mm" indicate different thicknesses in various parts of the suit. The first number refers to the neoprene thickness in the torso, while the second number shows the thickness in the arms and legs.
- Torso: 3mm neoprene for better insulation around your core.
- Arms and legs: 2mm neoprene to allow more movement.
Wetsuits with varying thicknesses are designed to balance warmth and mobility by using thicker neoprene where it's most needed:
- Core/torso: 5mm for maximum warmth.
- Secondary areas: 4mm for decent insulation.
- Arms/legs: 3mm for increased flexibility.
Now, let’s look at how water temperature affects your choice of wetsuit thickness.
Thickness Based on Water Temperature
Water temperature plays a big role in selecting the right wetsuit, but other factors like wind, activity level, and your tolerance for cold also matter.
| Water Temperature | Recommended Thickness | Additional Gear |
|---|---|---|
| Above 75°F | Rashguard only | None |
| 65°F-75°F | 0.5-2mm | None |
| 60°F-65°F | 3/2mm | None |
| 55°F-60°F | 4/3mm | Optional booties |
| 50°F-55°F | 5/4mm | Booties, gloves, hood |
| 40°F-50°F | 6/5/4mm | Booties, mittens, hood |
For example, in Southern California, summer water temperatures in the high 60s°F usually call for spring suits, while winter temperatures in the mid-50s°F require 3/2mm or 4/3mm full suits.
Activity-specific considerations:
- Surfing: Thicker suits are better since surfers often spend time sitting in the water.
- Kitesurfing: May need extra protection against wind chill.
- High-intensity activities: Thinner suits can work since your body generates more heat.
- Wind protection: Look for wetsuits with rubber panels on the chest and back.
If you're new to wetsuits, it's a good idea to go with a slightly thicker option. You can always unzip briefly if you start feeling too warm.
sbb-itb-66a59d6
3. Material and Build Quality
The material and construction of a wetsuit are crucial for its durability and performance, beyond just the fit and thickness.
Neoprene Types and Seams
Different types of neoprene offer unique advantages:
| Neoprene Type | Best For | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Limestone-based | All-around use | Absorbs less water and offers improved durability |
| Smooth Skin | Cold conditions | Excellent wind resistance but needs careful handling |
| Air Neoprene | Maximum warmth | Provides superior insulation, often in premium wetsuits |
| Yulex | Eco-conscious users | Plant-based alternative with similar performance to neoprene |
Seam construction also plays a big role in a wetsuit's performance:
- Flatlock seams: Flexible and suitable for warmer waters but allow more water to seep in.
- Glued and blind-stitched (GBS) seams: Better waterproofing, making them ideal for colder conditions.
- Fluid sealed seams: Offer top-notch water resistance and are typically found in high-end wetsuits.
Choosing the right combination of material and seams ensures better performance and durability.
Key Durability Features
High-quality wetsuits often include features designed to extend their lifespan:
- Reinforcements like Melco dots, double-layered knee panels, and carefully placed seams protect areas prone to stretching and wear.
- Internal linings such as Flash lining, DryMax, or merino wool provide added warmth and insulation.
- Functional elements like drain holes for water management and Velcro ankle straps to minimize water entry enhance usability.
For long-lasting durability, limestone-based neoprene is a standout option. For instance, Yamamoto neoprene boasts a water impermeability rate of 99.7% . Look for wetsuits with solid seam construction and reinforcements in high-stress areas. While these features might increase the upfront cost, they can make your wetsuit last much longer.
4. Matching Sport to Suit Type
Choosing the right wetsuit goes beyond fit, thickness, and material quality. Matching your wetsuit to your specific sport ensures it meets the unique demands of your activity.
Sport-Specific Features
Each water sport has its own requirements, and wetsuit designs reflect these differences to improve performance. Here's a breakdown of how wetsuits vary by activity:
| Sport | Features | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Surfing | Lightweight, flexible arms/shoulders, wind-blocking panels | Mobility and core warmth |
| Diving | Reinforced construction, pressure resistance | Insulation and durability |
| Triathlon | Smooth skin material, streamlined fit | Speed and hydrodynamics |
Take surfing, for example. These wetsuits often include wind-blocking chest and back panels to keep you warm while waiting for the next wave.
"Wetsuits made specifically for surfing have many unique qualities that make them different than scuba wetsuits. Generally, surfing wetsuits are much lighter and more flexible, especially in the arms and shoulders, compared to dive suits" .
Diving wetsuits, on the other hand, are built to handle the pressure changes that come with deeper water. They focus on insulation and durability instead of flexibility. Meanwhile, triathlon wetsuits prioritize speed, using sleek materials that cut through water but may not be as tough as surfing or diving suits .
Use Frequency and Experience
Once you've chosen a suit tailored to your sport, think about how often you'll use it. Wetsuit longevity depends on usage because neoprene - the key material - compresses over time. This compression reduces insulation, meaning frequent use (multiple times a week) may require replacement every 1–2 years. For lighter, seasonal use, a wetsuit can last up to 5 years .
To extend your wetsuit's life, consider using products like wetsuit shampoo for proper care.
If you're a beginner, starting with a mid-range suit is a smart move. It’ll meet your sport's needs without breaking the bank. As you gain experience and commitment, you can upgrade to a more advanced model with features that match your growing skills. This approach balances cost with performance as you progress in your water sport journey.
Final Buying Tips
Before making your purchase, take a moment to test the wetsuit for fit and comfort. When you're at the surf shop, try on a few options and ensure the suit feels natural as you move.
Here’s a quick checklist to help you out:
- Movement Test: Raise your arms overhead and perform a squat. If you feel restricted, you might need a larger size .
- Seal Check: Check the seals around your neck, wrists, and ankles. They should fit snugly without gaps, even when you move. Pay extra attention to avoid loose or wrinkled areas, especially around the lower back .
- Construction Inspection: Look closely at the stitching and seams. Well-made seams are key to a durable wetsuit, no matter the price .
Once you’ve found the right fit and ensured the wetsuit is well-constructed, it’s important to take care of it properly. Use the table below as a guide:
| Care Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh water rinse | After each use | Use cold or lukewarm water only |
| Deep cleaning | Every 2 months | Clean with wetsuit-specific shampoo |
| Inspection | Monthly | Check for tears and seam damage |
Keep in mind that wetsuits will naturally mold to your body after a few uses . Store yours on a wide hanger in a cool, dry, and shaded area . Proper care and handling can go a long way in extending its lifespan.