How to Choose a Swimsuit for Surfing

You've just scored a trip to one of the world's warm-water surf spots, but what the heck do you wear? If neoprene has been your second skin, it's time to get acquainted with polyester, nylon and spandex. These key components offer fit and function for riding warm waves.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sunscreen
• Surfing Trunks
• Surfing Wet Suits

Men

1. Skip the swimming trunks and buy some board shorts. Lengths include midthigh and roughly knee-length; select whatever suits your personal style and comfort level.

2. Choose a high-quality sanded polyester that's coated with an H2O repellent. This sophisticated thread will stand up to the elements and any wear and tear it may have to endure. Cotton and nylon can't take the punishment.

3. Look for reinforced stitching along seams and stress points. Choose thick and tight elastic waistbands, or noncatch drawstring closures that still enable your belly to lie flat as you paddle out.

4. Check out the shorts' extra features, like pockets for wax and keys.

5. Finally, don't compromise on style - opt for the bright colors, cool prints and groovy trims that'll keep you looking like the pros.

Women

6. Choose a bathing suit made from a very durable nylon/spandex combination. Look for thicker material and brands that offer durability and resilience against the elements.

7. Go for bottoms that have thick and tight elastic bands and a higher waist cut. Some surfer girls actually dig the guys' board shorts, but it's all a matter of preference.

8. Consider camisoles, or half tank tops that don't hike up. Racer-back styles and halter cuts maximize the range of your shoulder motion.

Tips & Warnings

• Slip into skins if the sun and board burns prove too much. These nylon/spandex shorts and tops fit smooth and tight against the skin and won't inhibit your range of motion.
• Rinse your suit or skins well at day's end, and always hang them to dry. Storing them when wet with salt water will cause the material to break down, and could cause mildew.
• Protect that upper body from the sun. Use a high SPF that's water-repellent, or slip into a nylon skin.

on 8/8/2006 Women, don't wear a bikini if you're serious about surfing. Even the best of us eventually wipe out, and if the water is rough you might be wishing your top had a strap attached to your ankle as well.

on 3/12/2006 After surfing with board shorts, it's a good idea to rinse off well, because the constant rubbing of salt water against your thighs can result in extremely painful rashes that remain in place for a day or two. A way to avoid this is to not always surf with board shorts, and instead alternate between board shorts and your regular bathing suit.

on 1/19/2006 No wires, buckles, or knots on a swimsuit you are going to be surfing gin! These things will dig into your chest, hips, and other areas from laying on the board, try to avoid these kind of suits in general.