There are several aspects to consider, from the material to the water temperature: let’s find out more

In addition to the board, a good quality wetsuit is essential for surfing, especially if you decide to surf in the ocean or practice during the colder months.

Choosing the ideal wetsuit requires taking into account several factors, such as water temperature, climate, the type of surfing you do and, of course, your budget.

In this article you will find a detailed guide to help you choose the right wetsuit for you.

Read also: Surfing for beginners in Fuerteventura: how to choose the best school for beginners

Choosing a wetsuit: what to evaluate

There are some precise characteristics that you should evaluate before buying (or renting) a wetsuit.

The thickness of the suit is one of them: it consists of two numbers (e.g. 3/2, 4/3), the first indicating the thickness in millimeters of the neoprene covering the torso, the second the thickness for the legs and arms. A general rule of thumb is that the lower the water temperature, the thicker the suit should be.

As for the types of wetsuits, there are several on the market, each with its own characteristics:

• Shorty: with short sleeves and legs, it is ideal for warm waters (21°-24°C).
• Spring suit with long sleeves: with long sleeves and short legs, suitable for slightly cooler temperatures.
• Spring suit with short sleeves: it is a long suit with short sleeves, to be used when temperatures rise but the water is still cold.
• Full wetsuit: the most common for surfing, available in various thicknesses (3/2 mm, 4/3 mm, etc.).
• Hooded wetsuit: for very cold waters, used with gloves and boots.

In terms of thickness, however, we can classify wetsuits as follows:

• 3/2 and 2/2 mm wetsuit: suitable for water temperatures between 17°C and 22°C.
• Shorty suit: suitable for waters with temperatures between 20°C and 25°C
• 5/4 mm suit: suitable for very cold water between 7°C and 12°C, offers extra protection against the cold.
• 4/3 mm suit: suitable for water temperatures between 12°C and 17°C, good compromise between thermal protection and flexibility.

Another feature to consider is the material. Wetsuits are traditionally made of neoprene, a type of synthetic rubber. Nowadays, manufacturers pay more attention to sustainability: many brands produce eco-friendly wetsuits with less polluting materials.

Wetsuits usually have seams and zippers, and may be accompanied by accessories to complete the outfit.

The seams can be flatlock, for summer suits, or GBS (Glued and Blind Stitched), which offer greater water resistance; suits are also available with sealed or liquid-sealed seams for colder conditions.

Zippers may be on the back, chest or absent. The choice depends on factors such as the ease of putting on and taking off the wetsuit and the amount of water that can enter.

Finally, neoprene booties, gloves and hats can be useful, especially in cold water or for protection from rocky bottoms.

The duration of surfing sessions also influences the choice of wetsuit:

• For 1 hour of surfing: for short sessions, a wetsuit that is easy to put on and take off and offers adequate thermal insulation is ideal.
• For 2 hours of surfing: the wetsuit should offer a good balance between ease of fitting and freedom of movement.
• For 3 hours of surfing: for longer sessions, a wetsuit offering maximum freedom of movement, with a very soft neoprene and superior fit is best.

As for prices, they vary depending on the materials, the thickness of the suit and the brand. In general, there are different price ranges, from the cheapest to the highest performance. A good compromise is usually the mid-range.

Once you have purchased your wetsuit, it is important to take good care of it: for example, rinse it under running water after each use and avoid direct exposure to the sun.

Surfing wetsuit: better to buy or rent?

If you already have some experience and surf regularly, you should probably invest in the purchase, but if you are a beginner and want to find out if surfing is for you, it is better to rent one. Our surf school in Fuerteventura, for example, offers good quality equipment rental as well as lesson packages for all needs, so that even beginners can surf safely.

Read also: How much does it cost to surf in Fuerteventura?

In conclusion

Surfing is an exciting experience that combines sport and nature. However, to fully enjoy this activity, it is essential to have the right equipment, especially a wetsuit.

When choosing a wetsuit, think about where you will be surfing, your comfort level at different temperatures and the type of surfing you do. Also consider the durability and environmental impact of the materials used. If you are just starting out, you can consider renting: at Point Break, in addition to lessons, we offer equipment rental to get you started in the experience of riding waves.

Takeaways

• The thickness of the wetsuit is key and depends on the water temperature. The colder the water, the thicker the suit should be. Wetsuits range from 3/2 mm for warm water to 5/4 mm for very cold water.
• There are several types of wetsuits, such as the shorty for warm water, the full wetsuit for more experienced surfers and the full wetsuit with hood for very cold conditions. The choice of wetsuit depends on both the weather and the surfer’s needs.
• Traditionally, wetsuits are made of synthetic rubber. However, more and more brands are focusing on sustainability and offering eco-friendly options with less polluting materials.
• Neoprene booties, gloves and hats are useful, especially in cold water or for protection from rocky bottoms. These accessories add an extra layer of protection and comfort while surfing.
• If you are a beginner or are trying surfing for the first time, renting a wetsuit is the best option. On the other hand, if you surf regularly, investing in your own wetsuit may be more cost-effective and comfortable in the long run.

FAQ

How thick should my wetsuit be for surfing?

The thickness of the wetsuit depends on the water temperature. For example, for waters between 17°C and 22°C, a 3/2 mm suit is adequate. For colder water, from 7°C to 12°C, a 5/4 mm suit is recommended. The general rule is that the colder the water, the thicker the suit should be.

What type of wetsuit is best for surfing?

The type of wetsuit depends on the conditions in which you will be surfing. The shorty is ideal for warm waters, while the full wetsuit is the most common and is used in various thicknesses. For very cold water, a full wetsuit with a hood is recommended. The choice should be based on water temperature and comfort.

Is it better to buy or rent a wetsuit?

If you are experienced and surf regularly, it is advisable to invest in the purchase of a wetsuit. If you are a beginner and you are trying surfing, it is better to rent it to avoid high expenses. Some surf schools, such as Point Break in Fuerteventura, offer quality equipment rental for beginners.