Wetsuit Buying Guide: Thickness, Temperature & Materials
If you're into surfing, paddleboarding, or just swimming in the waves, you know how important a good wetsuit can be. It can totally transform your experience out there and keep you in the ocean doing what you love, for longer.
But, if you're feeling a bit lost in the sea of options and prices when it comes to buying a wetsuit, don't worry. This article is going to help you out by breaking down everything you need to know about this essential piece of water gear.
For a quick guide to wetsuit thickness and temperature, dive right in.
Wetsuit Thickness & Temperature Guide
| Water Temperature Range | Wetsuit Thickness | Recommended Wetsuit |
|---|---|---|
| 75°F and above / 24°C and above | none | Skin it (no wetsuit) |
| 70-75°F / 21-24°C | 1mm - 2mm | Jacket |
| 65-70°F / 18-21°C | 2mm - 3/2mm | Springsuit or full suit |
| 60-65°F / 16-18°C | 3/2mm | Full suit |
| 50-60°F / 10-16°C | 4/3mm - 5/4mm | Full suit with boots (optional) |
| 50°F and below / 10°C and below | 6/5/4mm | Full suit with boots, gloves, + hood |
Do wetsuits keep you warm?
Have you ever wondered if a wetsuit keeps you warm in chilly waters? Well, wetsuits are constructed using a stretchy neoprene material that fits tightly like a second skin. When worn, the wetsuit traps a thin layer of water between your skin and the suit, which your body then warms up. This water layer acts as an insulator, keeping you snug and warm in the cold water.
To ensure that the wetsuit traps water effectively, it's crucial that the wetsuit fits snugly without any gaps or pockets where water can collect. Additionally, the wrist and ankle seams need to be snug to prevent cold water from flushing through and displacing the warm water that your body has heated.
How to choose a wetsuit
Now that you know how a wetsuit works, the next step is to choose the right one for your needs. There are two key factors to consider when choosing a wetsuit: the water temperature and the activity you'll be doing.
Wetsuits are available in various thicknesses, with thicker suits being best for colder waters. You may come across numbers in the wetsuit description, such as '5mm' or '3/2mm'.
These numbers or ratios refer to the thickness of the neoprene, measured in millimeters. A 5mm wetsuit, for instance, will have 5mm thick neoprene throughout. In a '3/2mm' wetsuit, the first number is the thickness of the body or core of the wetsuit (in this case, 3mm), while the second number is the thickness of the arms and legs (2mm in this example) for added mobility.
The activity you'll be doing while wearing the wetsuit is another essential consideration.
Wetsuits for surfing, swimming, and diving are designed for different purposes, with each having distinct features. Surfing wetsuits, for instance, have reinforced knees for durability, while swimming wetsuits are often more lightweight and flexible, although they may not be as durable.
Wetsuit types: what wetsuit do I need?
If you're looking to buy a wetsuit, there are a few different types to consider. Let's take a closer look at the most common ones, from warmest to coldest water conditions.
Keep in mind that there are different names for the same kind of wetsuit and these names can often vary from region to region. For example, I usually call a wetsuit jacket a “topper” but when shopping you’d likely find them under the “wetsuit jacket” category.
Something else to consider is that certain people have different tolerances for cold water. I have a friend who wears a full suit through Spring when everyone else is in a topper or skinning it. The other thing to consider is air temperature and wind, as warm water may feel good on the legs but exposure to colder air may merit some neoprene.
Wetsuit Jackets, Tops, or Vests
Water temperatures: 70-75°F / 21-24°C
Wetsuit vests or tops made of neoprene with a thickness of 0.5-2mm are ideal for warmer water activities and can be paired with board shorts or bikini bottoms.
Shorty or Spring Wetsuits
Water temperatures: 65-70°F / 18-21°C
Shorty wetsuits, also known as spring suits, are cropped above the knee and come in a variety of styles, including sleeveless or with short or full-length arms. This style of wetsuit is better suited for water temperatures with a slight chill or for warmer water with a cool breeze.
Personally, living in Central Florida where the water rarely gets below 65°F/18°C, my go-to wetsuit is a long sleeve spring suit to account for cooler air temperatures. These are also a great option for those engaging in kayaking or paddleboarding, where the aim is to spend as little time as possible in the water.
Long John, Long Jane or Short Johns
Water temperatures: 60-65°F / 16-18°C
Sleeveless wetsuits with either full or short leg coverage are often referred to as Long John or Long Jane wetsuits. These are named after fictional characters and are sleeveless with either full-length leg coverage or cropped at the knee.
They're particularly popular among paddleboarders as they provide greater freedom of movement in the arms. However, since they lack a neck/arm seal, they're best for surface watersports or warmer climates, as water can easily flush through the suit.
Full Suits, Steamers, and Hooded Wetsuits
Water temperatures: 65°F / 18°C and below
Full suits, also known as steamers, are wetsuits that cover your entire body except for your head, hands, and feet. They're available in a range of thicknesses, typically from 2mm up to 6mm, making them suitable for a wide variety of water temperatures.
Hooded wetsuits are a type of full suit that includes an integrated hood, providing extra protection from the cold and preventing water flush-through when duck diving under waves. These are available in thicker options, usually 6mm or 5mm, and some 4mm suits.
Full suits don't just protect against the cold; they also guard against jellyfish stings and harmful UV rays.
What wetsuit size do I need?
To achieve a wetsuit that fits like a second skin, it is crucial to get the sizing right. A wetsuit that is too loose will allow water to flush through and leave you feeling cold. On the other hand, a wetsuit that is too tight will restrict your range of motion and make it difficult to move freely.
If you are trying on wetsuits in person, test the fit by bending over and touching your toes (just make sure you keep your undies on!). If your movement is restricted, it may be too tight.
Women's wetsuits are typically sized by dress size, but it's important to check the manufacturer's size chart to ensure a proper fit. Each wetsuit brand will include a manufacturer's size chart, as there may be slight differences in sizing between brands.
To accommodate different body shapes, wetsuits are also available in Short and Tall cuts. These sizes are marked with a 'T' or 'S' after the size, such as MT for "Medium Tall". This size has the same chest and waist measurement as a standard Medium but offers additional length for those who are taller.
Wetsuit materials & construction
Wetsuit zipper types
Putting on and taking off a wetsuit is more involved than you might think. There are three different types of wetsuit entry systems: back zips, chest zips, and zipperless.
Back Zip Wetsuits
This is the traditional design, where the zipper runs the length of the spine and you use a cord to zip yourself in and out. Back zip wetsuits are generally the easiest to get into and out of compared to the other styles.
However, they are not as effective at keeping water out, as water can penetrate the seams on the back zip. Some companies have developed technologies to prevent this (such as Quiksilver Hydroshield). Back zip wetsuits can also be restrictive when bending forward, as the suit will become taut in the back, and the zipper lacks flexibility.
Wetsuit Seams
The wetsuit seam construction may help with keeping water out and providing added durability. Note that it is possible to see multiple seam technologies in more premium wetsuits, such as the incorporation of GBS seams, internal taping, and some type of thermal lining.
Flatlock Seams
Flatlock seams are an essential but often overlooked feature of wetsuits. This stitching method involves overlapping neoprene pieces that are stitched together flat against the skin to prevent irritation and chafing. However, the stitching leaves small perforations that allow water to enter the suit, so wetsuits with flatlock seams are best for recreational users or those who only venture out in warmer weather.
Glued and blindstitched, or GBS seams, on the other hand, create a watertight seal using a glued and blind-stitch technique, making wetsuits significantly warmer. If you plan to spend extended periods in the water, look for wetsuits with GBS seams.
Internal Taping
Internal taping is a thin neoprene tape that reinforces the seams of the wetsuit from the inside, making them more durable and waterproof. This feature is especially beneficial in high-stress areas such as the shoulders, knees, and crotch, where seams are likely to fail due to repeated stretching and movement. In addition, internal taping helps keep wetsuits warm and water-tight for longer.
Thermal/Polypro Lining
Thermal or polypro linings are fleece-like materials found inside wetsuits that help wick away moisture and retain warmth even when wet. While mid-range wetsuits usually have thermal lining panels in the torso, premium wetsuits have linings that extend from top to bottom, providing maximum warmth. Additionally, these linings dry quickly, which is useful if you frequently move in and out of the water.
Types of wetsuit neoprene
Standard Neoprene
While it is a decent insulator and long-lasting, standard neoprene is the most basic type of neoprene used in making wetsuits, lacking the flexibility found in other neoprene types.
Super Stretch Neoprene
This type of neoprene is more pliable than standard neoprene, allowing for greater freedom of movement. It contains more butadiene, the substance that makes neoprene stretchy, in its mixture.
Oysterprene
This neoprene is made by blending crushed oyster shells and neoprene, providing an eco-friendly option to traditional neoprene and eliminating the use of petroleum-based materials. It is known for its flexibility, durability, and warmth.
Limestone Neoprene
Another environmentally friendly alternative to standard neoprene is limestone neoprene, which consists of a combination of calcium carbonate extracted from limestone rock and chloroprene. Not only do limestone wetsuits have a smaller carbon footprint than their traditional petroleum-based counterparts, but they are also some of the most flexible and warm wetsuits available.
Yamamoto Neoprene
Yamamoto is a premium neoprene created by the Japanese company Yamamoto Corporation. It is renowned for its flexibility and is commonly used in high-end wetsuits, particularly triathlon and swimming wetsuits, as well as premium surfing wetsuits.
Yulex is a natural rubber and neoprene alternative obtained from the Yulex plant, a renewable and sustainable source. It provides all of the benefits of neoprene, such as insulation, flexibility, and durability, while also reducing the manufacturing process's environmental impact.
Wetsuit Accessories: Gloves, Booties, & Hoods
If you are surfing in water 60°F / 16°C or below, you may want to invest in some wetsuit accessories that will help keep the warmth in.
Wetsuit Gloves
Wetsuit gloves are made of neoprene and are worn during cold water activities. Five-finger gloves offer the most dexterity, while mittens are better suited for very cold water. Hybrid models with three fingers, resembling lobster claws, are also available.
Wetsuit Booties
Wetsuit boots are made of neoprene and rubber and are worn during cold water activities. They can have either a round toe or a split toe design. Boots with an external split toe have a separate big toe for better dexterity, while internal split-toe models combine the dexterity of a split toe with the warmth of a round-toe design.
Wetsuit Hoods
Wetsuit hoods can be added to hoodless wetsuits for additional warmth in colder waters. Some wetsuits come with built-in hoods.
Wetsuits have come a long way since their origins in the 1950s. Born from war-related developments in petrochemicals, neoprene became a framework for increasing our time riding waves in the ocean.
Initially, brands such as O'Neill and Rip Curl stole the show with significant innovations driving us into the 2020s, where now a huge number of brands have entered the market. What many people don't realize is that most of these wetsuits, regardless of the brand, are actually all made in the same factory in Taiwan, by theSheico Group. But what I've learned is that it doesn't exactly mean that all brands are the same.
What to look for when buying a new wetsuit for surfing
Shopping for a new wetsuit to surf in can be an intimidating, yet fun, experience. Intimidating because there are lots of options, brands, and price points to consider. The fun part is getting the rubber in your hands, enjoying that new wetsuit smell (if you have a used wetsuit, you know what I'm talking about), and enjoying the warmth and flexibility of some neoprene.
That said, some of the most important factors surrounding a new wetsuit purchase are around cost, flexibility and warmth. These days, most wetsuits you purchase from major brands like the ones featured here will keep you warm. All of these wetsuits are flexible in their own right, it's really only when you do a side-by-side comparison that you see the differences. For the common person though, you'll be happy with any of the wetsuits recommended on this list. In terms of cost, everyone has a budget and there are wetsuit options for everyone at any price point.
Wetsuit brands on sustainability and durability
Neoprene has typically been pretty awful for the environment, but the industry is changing. In the last decade or so, most brands have shifted from petrochemical-based neoprene and foams to limestone neoprene.
A step up from limestone neoprene in an environmental sense would beYulex, who famously teamed up with Patagonia (not tested) to pioneer the widespread use of natural rubber from rubber trees. UtilizingFSC certified processes, they produce a material that is close to matching the more traditional neoprene in terms of quality and performance.
Out of all the wetsuits tested in this project, needessentials are the only brand who offer a Yulex range. But every brand involved in this test emphasized how much of an important issue sustainability has become when it comes to producing suits, and all are taking advantage of improved sustainability practices, either in-house or at Sheico.
Recycled rubber, water-based glues, better dyeing techniques, and more, these are all consumer-demanded innovations that each brand has adopted in 2022, and I'm sure there's going to be more improvements in this space into the future. But it may not just be about better raw materials. And some believe the most eco wetsuit you can develop is the one that lasts the longest.
Wetsuit brand representatives on wetsuit sustainability and durability:
Cameron Lamperd, Product development; O'neill:"We talked about the performance side to it and the amount of stretch and improvements that have happened there. You know, in many ways some of that has come at the cost of durability. So I'd like to think, you know, in the future we can improve the environmental effects of the wetsuit by increasing the actual durability of the suits as well."
Adam Brissenden, Wetsuit Overload, Rip Curl:"I mean, realistically, we could make a wetsuit that stretched and was way lighter than what we've got in the market currently. That would feel amazing, awesome to wear and feel like you're wearing nothing, but that would not last. Durability is a key, a key thing, a filter for us to do when we're considering making a product and taking it to market. Ideally, our entire range of wetsuits would be made from sustainable materials or made with sustainability in mind and be even better than what they are now. That to me is my ultimate goal for wetsuits."
Wetsuit buying FAQ
What thickness wetsuit is best for surfing?
The thickness of your surfing wetsuit depends on the temperate of the water you are surfing in and your inherent tolerance for cold. As a general rule of thumb, a 3/2mm wetsuit (full suit) is suitable for water temperatures 60°F-65°F, while a 4/3mm wetsuit may be more appropriate for water temperatures in the 55°F-60°F range.
Should I get a 3/2 or 4/3 wetsuit for Southern California?
Most surfers in Southern California wear 3/2 mm wetsuits year round. However, during exceptionally cold snaps the water temps can veer below 60°F, making the case for a 4/3 mm wetsuit. Avid surfers will have multiple wetsuits in their collection to prepare for different seasons and therefore changing water temperatures.
What's the difference between a scuba wetsuit and surf wetsuit?
Diving wetsuits utilize compression-resistant neoprene that maintains its warmth when diving. Surfing wetsuits do not feature this technology and therefore will compress during dives, resulting in a thinner wetsuit underwater and thus, less protection from the cold. In short, surfing wetsuits are not recommended for diving because they are not designed to keep the body warm the same wave a diving wetsuit is. At the same time, a diving wetsuit is not recommended for surfing because diving wetsuits do not feature the flexibility components of a surfing wetsuit.