Wetsuit Guide – Pick, Wear and Care for Your Water‑Sport Suit

Whether you’re chasing the wind on a board or slicing through a lake on a wakeboard, a good wetsuit makes the difference between a blast and a cold shiver. This guide walks you through the basics of choosing the right suit, how to get the best fit, and simple steps to keep it in top shape.

How to pick the right wetsuit

First, think about the water temperature you’ll face most often. A 3/2mm suit (3mm torso, 2mm limbs) works well in water around 15‑18°C – warm enough for comfort but still keeping you warm. Drop down to 4/3mm if you expect colder days, and for tropical spots a thin 2mm shorty will do.

Next, consider the activity. Windsurfers need lots of arm movement, so look for suits with flexible neoprene panels or "stretcher" zones on the shoulders. Wakeboarders benefit from a tighter fit to reduce drag, while surfers often pick a suit with a smooth back panel for better board feel.

Fit is king. A wetsuit should hug your skin like a second layer – no big gaps, but not so tight it restricts breathing. When you pull the suit over your head, you should hear a gentle snap as the neck seals. Try it on with the same clothing you’d wear on the water to gauge real‑world comfort.

Caring for your wetsuit

Rinse the suit in fresh water right after each session. Salt, sand, and chemicals can break down neoprene over time, and a quick rinse removes the culprits. Hang it inside‑out in a shady spot; direct sun can weaken the material.

If the suit gets a nasty smell, soak it in a mix of cold water and a small amount of mild detergent for about 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid hot water – it can shrink the neoprene.

Store the suit flat or on a wide hanger to avoid creases. When you need to pack it, roll it loosely rather than folding, which helps keep the seams from stressing.

For minor repairs, a wetsuit repair kit with neoprene glue and patches does the trick. Clean the area, apply the patch, and let it cure per instructions. Most small tears are fixed in minutes, saving you a pricey replacement.

Finally, inspect seams regularly. Stitch or glued seams that start fraying can let water in, ruining the thermal layer. Tighten any loose stitching and re‑glue if needed.

With the right suit and a bit of maintenance, you’ll stay warm, move freely, and enjoy more time on the water. So next time you gear up, remember these quick tips – they’ll keep your wetsuit performing season after season.