Wetsuit Usage Guide for Windsurfers

A good wetsuit can mean the difference between a great session and a cold, uncomfortable day on the water. Below you’ll find straight‑forward advice on picking the right suit, getting it on correctly, and keeping it in top shape.

Pick the Right Fit and Thickness

First off, measure your chest, waist, and hips. Most brands size by chest, but a snug waist and hip area helps stop water from sneaking in. When you try a suit on, it should feel tight enough that you don’t see excess material, yet you should still be able to move your arms freely. If you can see a lot of white space when you stretch, the suit is too big.

Thickness matters according to water temperature. In the UK, 3‑4 mm works for most spring and autumn days, while 5‑6 mm is better for winter. Thinner suits (2 mm) are fine when the water’s above 18 °C. Remember, a thicker suit adds buoyancy, so you may need to adjust your stance on the board.

Putting On and Getting Comfortable

Wet the inside of the wetsuit with fresh water before you step in. This reduces friction and helps seal the suit tighter. Slide your feet in first, then pull the legs up, making sure there are no folds. Work the suit up over your hips, then pull it over your shoulders. Use a silicone grease on your elbows and knees if you find those spots too tight.

After the suit is on, zip it up slowly. A sudden zip can pull the material and cause an uncomfortable stretch. Once zipped, flex your arms and hips a few times to let the neoprene settle. If you feel cold spots, double‑check that no water is entering at the cuffs or neck.

Caring for Your Wetsuit

Rinse the suit in cool fresh water after every session. This washes away salt, sand, and chemicals that can break down the neoprene. Hang it to dry in a shaded area – direct sun weakens the material. When the suit is fully dry, store it loosely on a wide hanger to keep the shape.If you notice a small tear, patch it with a wetsuit repair kit before it gets bigger. Avoid using regular fabric cleaners; a mild wetsuit shampoo works best.

For long‑term storage, keep the suit out of the freezer for a few hours once a year. The cold kills any bacteria that might cause odor.

Practical Tips While Out on the Water

Warm up your body on the beach before you get in the water. Light jogging or jumping jacks raise your core temperature and make the suit feel less stiff. Keep a small towel in your bag to dry off any water that runs down the inside of the suit during a break.

If the water gets choppy and you start to feel water leaking in, ditch the zip for a moment and pull the suit tighter around your thighs. This creates a better seal until you can zip back up.

Know the limits of your suit. Even the thickest wetsuit can’t protect you from hypothermia if you stay in icy water for too long. Listen to your body – if you start to shiver, get out and warm up.

With the right fit, proper wear, and good care, your wetsuit will stay flexible and warm season after season. Use these tips, enjoy the wind, and stay comfortable on every ride.