How to Choose a Wetsuit for Surfing

The waves might be going off, but it won’t matter much if your wetsuit feels like a mesh jersey. Wearing an ill-fitting wetsuit is as good as not wearing one at all, so choosing the right suit is the first step to your session. When shopping for wetsuits, you will constantly see 3/2 or 4/3. This is the thickness of the suit in millimeters. A 3/2 means that the chest is 3mm thick and the arms and legs are 2mm thick. A 5/4/3 means 5mm in the chest, 4mm in the arms and 3mm in the legs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine what conditions you will surf. Personal preference comes into play here. Depending on how cold you normally get:
   If the water is between 60 and 70 degrees F, a 3/2 will be fine.
   If the water is between 55 and 60 degrees F, a 4/3 would be better.
   If the water is under 55 degrees F, a 5/4/3 or 6/5/4 hooded suit should be worn.

2. Find a local shop that sells wetsuits. Buying online might be cheaper, but if the suit constricts or is too loose, you’ll end up spending more on hypothermia treatment.

3. Put on the suit. How does it feel?

4. Make a paddling motion. Do you have a full range of motion?

5. Squat down on your knees. Can you move your legs freely?

6. Check around the neck. Does the neoprene pinch your neck? Is it easy to breath and swallow? Can you turn your head as far as normal?

7. Nod your head up and down. The top of the wetsuit should be snug, but not too tight. A loose neck will let cold water flow down your back when you dive under a wave.

8. Inspect the suit carefully before you buy it. Make sure that there are no holes or tears in the neoprene. Run your fingers over the bindings inside the suit and see that there are no frayed strings (if it is sewn) or gaps in the rubber (if it is glued.)

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a friend, ask to try on their suit. It might not fit perfectly, but it will give you an idea of what you want/need.
• Modern suits are much warmer than those from even a few years ago. A current 3/2 is as warm as a 4/3 or even 5/3 from a few years back.
• Don’t forget the accessories! There are many different ways to suit yourself for the cold. Rashguards are available in .5 and 1mm thickness. Boots can be worn to keep your feet worn, as well as gloves and hoods when it’s really cold. Also, a thin layer of petroleum jelly can be applied to your face to protect it from frigid water and icy winds.
• Surfing can be dangerous or even deadly. Please take all precautions and seek professional advice and training before attempting this.