The Ultimate Guide to Buying the Perfect Wetsuit

Your Guide to buying the best Wetsuits

Overview

Whether you're an avid surfer, a diving enthusiast, or a beginner swimmer, the right wetsuit can make your water activities more comfortable, safer, and overall more enjoyable. Our comprehensive wetsuit buying guide is designed to assist you in making the right choice for your specific needs. We will delve into the key factors to consider - including material, thickness, style, size, and more - and help you understand how these aspects can impact your in-water experience. Whether you're buying your first wetsuit or looking to upgrade, this guide will provide invaluable insights to ensure you make the best purchase.

Key features

  1. Material: Wetsuits are typically made from neoprene, which provides both insulation and buoyancy. However, the type of neoprene can vary, affecting the suit's flexibility and durability, so it's important to consider this when buying.
  2. Thickness: Wetsuit thickness is crucial for temperature regulation. Thicker suits are better for colder conditions, while thinner ones are more suitable for warmer waters.
  3. Size and Fit: A well-fitted wetsuit ensures efficient insulation and comfort. Sizes vary by brand, so it's essential to check the manufacturer's size chart before purchase.
  4. Type of Wetsuit: There are several types of wetsuits including full suits, spring suits, and shorties. The choice depends on the water temperature and the activity for which it will be used.
  5. Seams: The quality and type of seams affect the wetsuit's durability and warmth. Glued and blind stitched seams or liquid taped seams offer better durability and insulation.
  6. Zipper Location: Wetsuits can have back, chest, or no zippers. Back zippers are easier to get in and out of, while chest zippers offer more flexibility and seal in warmth better.
  7. Price: Wetsuits range in price depending on their features. While more expensive wetsuits often offer better quality and features, it's important to take your budget into account.

See the most popular Wetsuits on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Thermal Insulation: Wetsuits provide excellent thermal insulation, keeping you warm in cold water by trapping a thin layer of water between the suit and your skin, which your body heats.
  • Protection: Wetsuits serve as a protective layer against UV rays, harmful sea creatures and rough surfaces which can scratch or cut your skin.
  • Buoyancy: The neoprene material used in wetsuits is buoyant, which can add to your safety by helping you float more easily in the water.
  • Durability: High-quality wetsuits are made to withstand harsh conditions and can last for several years if properly cared for and maintained.
  • Flexibility: Wetsuits are designed to allow a wide range of movement, ensuring you can swim, surf and engage in other water sports without restriction.

Cons

  • Cost: High-quality wetsuits can be quite expensive, and cheaper versions may not offer the durability or performance you need.
  • Fit: A poorly fitting wetsuit can restrict movement and compromise insulation. It can be difficult to find the perfect fit, especially when shopping online.
  • Maintenance: Wetsuits require proper care and storage to prolong their lifespan. Neglecting maintenance can lead to material degradation.
  • Comfort: Some people may find wetsuits uncomfortable or constraining, especially when worn for extended periods.
  • Temperature Regulation: Depending on the thickness and material of the wetsuit, it may not be suitable for all water temperatures.
  • Difficulty in Donning and Doffing: Wetsuits can be challenging to put on and take off, especially when they are wet.

Best alternatives

  1. Dry Suits: These are designed to keep you dry and are usually used for diving in very cold water. They are not as flexible as wetsuits but offer better insulation.
  2. Semi-Dry Suits: Semi-dry suits are less insulating than dry suits but more than wetsuits. They allow a small amount of water in, which gets warmed by your body heat.
  3. Dive Skins: Dive skins are typically made of spandex or lycra and are meant for warm water. They offer protection from the sun and some marine creatures, but not insulation.
  4. Rash Guards: Rash guards are thin, flexible tops worn in warm water to protect against sun and chafing. They offer no insulation.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Wetsuit Shampoo - This is a specially formulated cleaner for wetsuits. It helps get rid of salt, chlorine, and organic matter that can damage the neoprene material.
  • Neoprene Repair Kit - A kit that usually contains neoprene patches and adhesive to repair tears or holes in your wetsuit.
  • Wetsuit Hanger - This hanger is designed to properly dry and store your wetsuit, prolonging its lifespan.
  • Wetsuit Boots - These boots provide additional warmth and protection for your feet when diving in cold water.
  • Wetsuit Gloves - Just like the boots, these gloves provide additional warmth and protection for your hands.
  • Wetsuit Hood - This is useful for diving in cold water as it helps to retain heat and protect the head and neck area.
  • Rash Guard - This is worn under the wetsuit to prevent chafing and rashes caused by the wetsuit’s constant rubbing against the skin.

Common questions

  1. What is a wetsuit and why do I need one?
    A wetsuit is a protective garment used in water sports and activities to provide thermal insulation, abrasion resistance, and buoyancy. The wetsuit is typically made of foamed neoprene. If you intend to engage in water activities in cold water, a wetsuit is essential to keep you warm and safe.
  2. How does a wetsuit work?
    Wetsuits work by trapping a thin layer of water between your body and the suit. Your body heat warms up this layer of water, which in turn keeps you warm while you're in the water.
  3. How should a wetsuit fit?
    A wetsuit should fit snugly all over your body, but not too tight. It should allow full range of motion. If a suit is too tight, it can restrict your movements and cause discomfort. If it's too loose, cold water will continuously replace the warm water inside the suit, causing you to get cold.
  4. What are the different types of wetsuits?
    There are several types of wetsuits including full suits, spring suits, shorties, and long johns. The type needed depends on the water temperature and the sport or activity you're engaging in.
  5. What thickness wetsuit do I need?
    The thickness of your wetsuit will depend on the water temperature. Generally, the colder the water, the thicker the wetsuit you will need.
  6. How do I care for and maintain my wetsuit?
    After each use, rinse your wetsuit thoroughly in fresh water and allow it to dry completely before storing. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can cause the material to degrade.

Trivia

Did you know that the inventor of the wetsuit, Jack O'Neill, lost his eye due to a surfing accident? Yet, this didn't deter him from passionately pursuing his love for the water. In fact, he started wearing an eyepatch which became quite a trademark look for him. His innovative creation, the wetsuit, not only revolutionized water sports by enabling people to stay in the water for extended periods, but it also led to the growth of cold-water surfing. O'Neill even jokingly claimed that he had only invented the wetsuit so he could stay in the bar longer and not miss out on any surf! A true testament to the saying, "necessity is the mother of invention." [Source](https://www.smithsonianmag.com/innovation/the-birth-of-the-wetsuit-64249226/)

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.