4 Mistakes to Avoid if You Want Your Wetsuit to Last Longer
A wetsuit is your trusty suit of armor in the water, but if you’re not careful, it can wear out faster than expected. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can keep your wetsuit in great shape and ready for countless sessions. Here are four mistakes to steer clear of.
1. Not Rinsing Your Wetsuit After Your Session
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is leaving your wetsuit salty and sandy after a session. Saltwater and debris can break down the neoprene over time, leading to stiffness and unpleasant odors.
- Always rinse your wetsuit with fresh water after each use.
- Turn it inside out to clean the interior thoroughly.
A quick rinse can save you from costly damage down the line.
2. Changing on Rough or Dirty Surfaces
Changing out of your wetsuit on sand, rocks, or asphalt can lead to tears, scratches, and grime buildup. Instead of risking damage:
- Use a wetsuit changing mat, like the Surf Banana's Banana Bag, to create a clean and protective surface.
- Bonus: It doubles as a storage bag to keep wet gear from soaking your car.
Protecting your wetsuit during changes ensures it stays in top-notch condition.
3. Drying It in the Sun
While it might be tempting to hang your wetsuit in the sun for a quick dry, UV rays are neoprene’s worst enemy. They can cause the material to degrade, making it stiff and brittle.
- Always dry your wetsuit in the shade or a well-ventilated area.
- Turn it inside out to speed up drying while protecting the exterior from UV damage.
A little patience goes a long way in preserving your wetsuit’s flexibility and lifespan.
4. Storing It Improperly
How you store your wetsuit when it’s not in use can make a big difference. Hanging it on a narrow hanger or leaving it bunched up can stretch the shoulders and damage the neoprene.
- Use a wide, padded hanger designed for wetsuits.
- Better yet, fold your wetsuit in half over a bar or hanger to prevent stretching.
Proper storage helps your wetsuit maintain its fit and structure for the long haul.
Treat Your Wetsuit Right
Avoiding these four common mistakes—skipping the rinse, changing on rough surfaces, drying in the sun, and improper storage—will keep your wetsuit looking and feeling like new for years.
Want to step up your wetsuit care routine? Check out the Surf Banana Changing Mat to make changing and storing your wetsuit easier and more protective than ever.