Wetsuit - Everything you need to know

A wetsuit is a special suit made of neoprene, which is mainly worn by surfers.

Definition and purpose:

• A wetsuit is designed to keep you warm in the water and protect you from the cold, wind and sunlight.

• It provides additional buoyancy and protects you from injuries caused by reefs or sharp objects.

Material properties of neoprene:

• Neoprene is an elastic, synthetic rubber that has air bubbles trapped in it.

• These air bubbles provide the material's insulating properties and buoyancy.

• Neoprene is stretchy and flexible, which ensures good freedom of movement.

Benefits of wearing a wetsuit while surfing:

• Keeps the body warm and extends your surfing time in the water. Yay. :)

• Protects the skin from UV rays and mechanical injuries.

• Improves hydrodynamics, which leads to more efficient paddling.

• Provides additional buoyancy that supports swimming.

• Protects against injuries when we think about the sharp fin getting too close to the body or the hard reef. The extra layer of rubber protects us from worse injuries than if we were just surfing in a bikini or board shorts.

Choosing the right wetsuit is crucial for your well-being and performance in the water. Here are some important factors you should consider:

Water temperature:

• The thickness of the neoprene affects the thermal insulation.

• Suits with 4/3mm or more are suitable for cold water (below 15°C).

• For moderate temperatures (15-20°C), 3/2mm suits are ideal.

• In warm waters (above 20°C), thin suits with 2mm or less are sufficient.

The mm measurements for wetsuits indicate the thickness of the material. This information is important as it determines the thermal insulation and flexibility of the suit. For example, "3/2mm" means that the suit is 3 mm thick on the torso and 2 mm on the arms and legs. This provides additional warmth at the core of the body and more freedom of movement at the extremities. Depending on the water temperature and level of activity, you can choose the right suit to keep you optimally warm while offering enough freedom of movement.

Fit:

• The suit should fit snugly but not restrict you.

• A good fit prevents water from getting in and keeps you warm.

• Make sure you choose the right size to avoid chafing.

Flexibility and comfort:

• A flexible suit offers more freedom of movement and increases comfort.

• Modern wetsuits are often made of stretch materials that do not restrict your movements.

Fastening systems:

• Backzip: Back zippers are easy to put on and take off.

• Frontzip: Chest zippers provide a better seal against water.

• Nozip: Shoulder zippers offer maximum freedom of movement and tightness.

Seam types:

• Blindstitch: Seam that minimizes water penetration as it only partially passes through the material.

• Flatlock: Robust and flat, but less water-repellent, ideal for warmer water.

• Taped and taped seams: Maximum waterproofness thanks to additional seam sealing.

Internal lining:

• Thermal lining increases thermal insulation and keeps you warm for longer, even in cold water.

Sealing:

• Liquid seam sealing and other sealing methods prevent water from penetrating and increase the durability of the suit.

Additional features:

• Knee pads: Protection and added durability at the knees.

• Key holder: Practical small pockets or holders for keys.

A wetsuit is an investment that can last a long time with the right care. Here are some tips for cleaning, drying and repair:

Cleaning:

• Rinse your wetsuit with cold fresh water after each use to remove salt water, sand and dirt.

• Use a special wetsuit cleaner occasionally to remove bacteria and odors.

Drying:

• Hang the wetsuit in the shade to avoid direct sunlight, which can damage the material.

• Turn the suit inside out to ensure that the inner lining dries completely.

Repair:

• Smaller tears and holes can be repaired with neoprene glue.

• For larger damages, there are special repair kits or you can have the suit professionally repaired.

For detailed instructions, you can also read our detailed blog article and watch an amusing video by surf instructor Joeri.

When choosing a wetsuit, the brand and model play an important role. Here are some of the leading brands and their recommended models:

Quiksilver:

• Highline Pro: Ideal for cold conditions, offering excellent flexibility and warmth.

O'Neill:

• Hyperfreak: Known for its extreme stretch and comfort, suitable for different water temperatures.

Rip Curl:

• Flashbomb: Excellent thermal insulation and quick drying, perfect for cold water.

SRFACE:

• Heat: Provides good insulation and durability, ideal for surfers who are out all year round.

Each of these brands offers high-quality options for different conditions and needs. Of course, there are other brands too. Ask your trusted surf store for advice.

Where to buy wetsuits (online vs. stationary):

• Online stores: Large selection, convenient shopping from home, often cheaper prices. Popular online retailers are Amazon, Surfdome and the websites of the brands themselves.

• Stationary stores: Possibility to try on the suit and take it home immediately. Specialist stores often offer expert advice.

Price-performance ratio and budget options:

• Budget options: Brands such as Decathlon offer affordable wetsuits with acceptable quality.

• Mid-range: Brands such as Quiksilver and O'Neill offer a good balance between price and performance.

• Premium: High-end models from Rip Curl and SRFACE offer the best materials and technologies.

Important buying criteria:

• Fit: A well-fitting suit is essential for comfort and thermal insulation.

• Material thickness: Depending on the water temperature you're surfing in.

• Flexibility: Look for stretchy materials for better freedom of movement.

• Fastening system: Choose a system that is easy to handle and seals well.

• Seam types and seals: High-quality seams and seals improve durability and waterproofness.

Nowadays, sustainability is also becoming increasingly important in the production of wetsuits. Many manufacturers are using environmentally friendly materials and production methods to minimize their impact on the environment. For example, recycled neoprene or natural rubber is used instead of conventional neoprene in order to conserve resources. Companies are also optimizing their production processes to reduce energy consumption and avoid waste.

Some companies offer recycling programs where old wetsuits are taken back and recycled. This promotes the circular economy and reduces waste. There are also sustainable alternatives that are made from recycled materials or are more easily recyclable to minimize the environmental impact. These innovations not only help the environment, but also surfers who are looking for more environmentally friendly products.

A good wetsuit is essential for comfort and protection when surfing. Choose the suit according to the water temperature and make sure it fits properly. Modern technologies and eco-friendly materials offer additional benefits in terms of flexibility, warmth and sustainability.

Invest in high-quality models from renowned brands such as Quiksilver, O'Neill or Rip Curl. Take good care of your suit to extend its lifespan. Look for sustainable options to minimize your ecological footprint and enjoy surfing to the fullest.