Finding the perfect wetsuit is essential for enhancing your time on the water. Whether you're surfing, diving, or simply enjoying a day of paddleboarding, the right suit offers comfort, performance, and protection. But with so many options available, it can feel overwhelming. Here's a streamlined guide to help you make a confident and stylish choice.
1. Understand your activity
The first step in selecting a wetsuit is identifying your primary activity. Different water sports require different types of wetsuits. For instance:
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Surfing: Flexibility and range of motion are key for paddling and catching waves. Look for suits with stretch panels and durable knee pads. We definitely have those. Go check them out here.
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Diving: Thermal insulation takes precedence to keep you warm during long dives. A thicker natural rubber suit with a snug fit is ideal.
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Paddleboarding: A lightweight suit that balances comfort and flexibility works best for active movement above water. Take a look at our springsuits for example.
By matching your wetsuit to your activity, you ensure maximum performance and comfort.
2. Nail the perfect fit
Fit is everything when it comes to wetsuits. A poorly fitting suit can chafe, restrict movement, or let cold water seep in. Here's what to keep in mind:
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Snug but not tight: The suit should feel like a second skin without restricting blood flow. Pay attention to key areas such as the neck, wrists, and ankles to avoid water flushing in.
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Freedom to move: Raise your arms, squat, and twist while trying on the suit. If it feels restrictive, consider a different size or brand.
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Body type considerations: Look for suits designed with anatomical cuts that match your shape. We have made sure to create suits that are tailored to women. No matter your size or shape.
3. Choose the right thickness
The thickness of your wetsuit depends on the water temperature where you'll be using it. Wetsuit thickness is measured in millimeters, often written as two numbers (e.g., 3/2mm), sometimes as three with winter wetsuits:
- <2mm: For the sessions we all want! Tropical (+70°F / +22°C) springsuit time. Just make sure you cover up well and use reef and sea safe sunscreen.
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3/2mm: Ideal for warmer waters (62-70°F / 16-22°C). The torso is 3mm thick for warmth, while the arms and legs are 2mm for flexibility.
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4/3mm: Best for those late spring and autumn sessions. A bit in between 13-18°C (55-65°F). It really depends if you're a person who feels cold fast.
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5/4mm: Designed for colder conditions (46-58°F / 8-15°C), offering additional insulation.
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Anything thicker than that: Best for extremely cold waters (below 45°F / 7°C) or extended dives or surfs in icy conditions.
If you’re unsure, go for a suit slightly thicker than you think you’ll need. It’s easier to cool down than to warm up when you’re in the water. You can always flush some fresh water down your suit.
4. Prioritize material and construction
Not all wetsuits are created equal. The material and construction of your suit play a significant role in its performance and durability:
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Natural rubber quality: Opt for premium rubber, which is softer, more flexible, and better at retaining heat. We use YULEX2.0 in all of our new suits.
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Seams: Look for glued and blind-stitched seams to prevent water seepage. For colder climates, consider suits with taped or liquid-sealed seams for extra protection.
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Zipper placement: Back zippers are traditional, but chest zippers provide a better seal and are less likely to leak. Zipper-free (zipless) suits are also an option for those prioritizing flexibility. Still, to make it easy to put on and take it off, most of our full wetsuits have horizontal chest zippers. Some of our springsuits have a vertical chest zip, and few have a back zipper.
5. Factor in sustainability
For the eco-conscious water sports enthusiast, sustainability is a key consideration. Many modern wetsuit brands prioritize environmentally friendly practices:
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Recycled materials: We aim to use recycled materials for linings. That's the layer on top of the rubber. It allows you to put on the suit with more ease, it protects and gives sturdiness to the rubber, and it feels more comfortable on the skin. We also use recycled materials for packaging.
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Eco-friendly manufacturing: We use processes that reduce CO2 emissions and minimize waste. Read more about that over here.
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Durability: A long-lasting wetsuit reduces the need for frequent replacements, making it a sustainable choice in itself. Just make sure you take good care of it.
Investing in a sustainably made wetsuit doesn’t just help the planet; it often means you’re buying a high-quality product made with care.
6. Add some personal flair
While function is the priority, there’s no reason your wetsuit can’t reflect your personal style. Modern wetsuits come in a variety of colors and patterns. Choose one that makes you feel confident and excited to hit the water.
Of course, we make sure our suits are on trend, but we always have some evergreens that never go out of fashion. This way you can look good and perform even better.
Final thoughts
Choosing the perfect wetsuit is about blending function, fit, and style. By focusing on your specific needs, understanding the features that matter, and prioritizing quality, you’ll find a suit that enhances your water adventures. Whether you’re riding waves or exploring underwater worlds, the right wetsuit will keep you comfortable, protected, and ready for anything. Here's another article that can help you narrow down what you need.
