Greetings fellow surf enthusiasts! If you’re a new surfer or looking to upgrade your wetsuit, this blog post is for you. Choosing the right wetsuit can make all the difference in your surfing experience. Not only does it keep you warm and protected from the elements, but it also allows you to stay in the water longer and catch more waves. Whether you’re surfing in chilly waters or warm tropical destinations, we’ve got you covered (literally) with everything you need
Choosing the Right Wetsuit for Surfing
When it comes to choosing the right wetsuit for surfing, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, you need to determine the temperature of the water you’ll be surfing in. Wetsuits are categorized by thickness, generally ranging from 1mm to 6mm, and thicker suits are designed for colder waters. Secondly, you need to ensure a proper fit. A wetsuit that is too loose or too tight can greatly affect your mobility and comfort in the water. Additionally, the type and quality of neoprene material used in the wetsuit are important factors in determining its warmth, flexibility, and durability. Lastly, consider any additional features such as chest zip or back zip, reinforced knees, or hooded suits depending on your personal preferences and the conditions you’ll be surfing in.
Choosing the Right Wetsuit for Surfing
As a surfer, you know the importance of having the right gear to help you catch the perfect wave. And when it comes to surfing, one of the most important pieces of gear is your wetsuit. Not only does a good wetsuit keep you warm in the water, but it also allows you to move freely, stay comfortable, and surf longer. If you’re in the market for a new wetsuit, here’s what you need to know to choose the right one for your surfing needs.
Determine the Right Thickness
The first thing you need to consider when choosing a wetsuit is the thickness you’ll need for the water temperature you’ll be surfing in. Wetsuits are made from neoprene, a type of synthetic rubber that provides both insulation and flexibility. They’re also categorized by thickness, generally ranging from 1mm to 6mm, with thicker suits designed for colder waters.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a wetsuit that’s 3mm thick if you’ll be surfing in water temperatures between 60-65°F (15-18°C), 4/3mm if you’ll be surfing in temperatures between 50-60°F (10-15°C), and 5/4/3mm if you’ll be surfing in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Get the Right Fit
Once you know the thickness you need, it’s time to focus on the fit. A properly fitting wetsuit should be snug, but not so tight that it restricts your movement or constricts your breathing. On the other hand, a wetsuit that’s too loose can let in cold water and reduce your insulation, making you feel uncomfortable and chilly in the water.
When trying on wetsuits, pay attention to how it feels in the shoulders, arms, and chest. You should be able to move your arms freely without any restrictions or discomfort. The wetsuit should fit snugly around your neck, wrists, and ankles to prevent water from coming in. Make sure to try different brands and sizes to find the perfect fit for you.
Consider the Quality of the Materials
The quality of the materials used in a wetsuit can greatly affect its warmth and durability. Most wetsuits are made from neoprene, which comes in different grades and qualities. Higher quality neoprene is made with more air pockets, giving it greater warmth and insulation properties. It’s also more flexible, allowing you to move more freely in the water.
When shopping for a wetsuit, look for one with high-quality neoprene that’s been treated with a water-resistant coating to help keep you dry in the water. Also, look for seams that have been glued, blind-stitched, and tape-sealed to prevent water from coming in through the seams.
Choose the Right Style
Wetsuits come in a variety of styles, each designed for different types of surfing and water conditions. The most common styles are full suits, spring suits, and shorties.
A full suit covers your entire body and is ideal for colder water temperatures or for surfers who tend to get cold easily. A spring suit covers your torso and arms but leaves your legs uncovered, making it ideal for warmer water temperatures. A shortie is a wetsuit that covers your torso and thighs, making it ideal for surfers who want more flexibility and mobility for their legs.
Consider Additional Features
Lastly, when choosing a wetsuit, consider any additional features that may be important to you. For example, a chest zip wetsuit can be easier to get on and off, while a back zip wetsuit may be more comfortable in the water. Some wetsuits also come with reinforced knees, which can be helpful if you spend a lot of time kneeling on your surfboard.
Other features to consider include hoods, which can provide extra warmth and protection for your head and ears, and pockets, which can be helpful for carrying keys or other small items in the water.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wetsuit is an essential part of being a surfer. By considering the water temperature, fit, quality of materials, style, and additional features, you’ll be able to find a wetsuit that suits your needs and allows you to surf comfortably and confidently. And if you’re on a budget, consider checking out used surfboards for sale to find a high-quality wetsuit at a more affordable price.
Wetsuit Care and Maintenance
Now that you’ve found the perfect wetsuit for your surfing needs, it’s important to take care of it properly to make sure it lasts as long as possible. Here are some tips to help you care for and maintain your wetsuit:
- Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water after each use to remove salt, sand, and other debris that can damage the neoprene.
- Avoid using hot water or harsh detergents, as these can damage the neoprene and reduce the wetsuit’s insulation properties.
- Hang your wetsuit to dry on a sturdy hanger in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Store your wetsuit in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Make any necessary repairs as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the wetsuit.
Wetsuit Accessories
In addition to a wetsuit, there are some accessories that can help enhance your surfing experience:
- Booties: These cover your feet and come in handy if you’re surfing in rocky areas or colder water temperatures.
- Gloves: These keep your hands warm and protected from the elements.
- Hoods: Hoods protect your head and ears from the wind and cold water.
- Rashguards: These are worn underneath your wetsuit and provide an extra layer of protection against skin irritation and sunburn.
Buying a Wetsuit on a Budget
If you’re looking to save money on a wetsuit, consider checking out used surfboards for sale or online marketplaces where you can find gently used wetsuits for a fraction of the original price. Just make sure to inspect the wetsuit carefully before purchasing to make sure it’s in good condition and has no major defects.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wetsuit is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable surfing experience. By considering the water temperature, fit, quality of materials, style, and additional features, you’ll be able to find a wetsuit that works for you. And by taking care of your wetsuit properly and investing in accessories, you can prolong its lifespan and get the most out of your surfing adventures. So, grab your board and wetsuit, and head out to catch some waves!
FAQs
Here are some common questions and answers related to choosing the right wetsuit for surfing:
1. How do I know what thickness wetsuit to get?
Choose a wetsuit thickness based on the temperature of the water you’ll be surfing in. A 3mm wetsuit is suitable for water temperatures between 60-65°F (15-18°C), 4/3mm for temperatures between 50-60°F (10-15°C), and 5/4/3mm for temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
2. How should a wetsuit fit?
A wetsuit should fit snugly but not so tight that it restricts movement or constricts breathing. It should be snug around the neck, wrists, and ankles to prevent water from coming in. Make sure to try on different brands and sizes to find the perfect fit for you.
3. Can I wear a wetsuit that’s too thick for the water temperature?
It’s not recommended to wear a wetsuit that’s too thick for the water temperature. Wearing a wetsuit that’s too thick can cause you to overheat and sweat excessively, which can make you feel uncomfortable and dehydrated in the water.
4. Should I get a wetsuit with a chest zip or back zip?
This is a matter of personal preference. Chest zip wetsuits can be easier to get on and off, while back zip wetsuits may be more comfortable in the water. It’s recommended to try on both styles to see which one works best for you.
5. How do I know if a wetsuit is high quality?
A high-quality wetsuit will be made with high-grade neoprene that has been treated with a water-resistant coating. The seams should be glued, blind-stitched, and tape-sealed to prevent water from coming in through the seams.
6. Can I repair a tear in my wetsuit?
Yes, tears in a wetsuit can be repaired. There are wetsuit repair kits available that can be used to patch a tear in the neoprene. However, larger tears or damages may require professional repair.
7. How can I take care of my wetsuit properly?
Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water after each use, avoid hot water and harsh detergents, hang it to dry in a shaded area, store it in a dry, cool place, and make any necessary repairs as soon as possible.
8. Can I machine wash my wetsuit?
No, it’s not recommended to machine wash a wetsuit. Machine washers can damage the neoprene and other components of the wetsuit.
9. Can I wear a rashguard underneath my wetsuit?
Yes, wearing a rashguard underneath your wetsuit can provide an extra layer of protection against skin irritation and sunburn.