Do you have to break in a wetsuit?

Thanks to the latest wetsuit technology, there is very little “break-in” required for wetsuits because of the already-super-stretchy materials that are used to manufacture them, like 100% stretch neoprene in some brands.

Do wetsuits loosen up over time?

Keep in mind that neoprene stretches when it gets wet, and also stretches with use over time. If you're in doubt about what size is correct or in between sizes, go with the snugger wetsuit.

Do you wet a wetsuit before putting it on?

Unless you are clad in a skin suit, dive skin, or other skintight clothing that will allow the suit to slide easier, it is recommended that both you and your wetsuit be either wet or dry. The most difficult scenario is trying to wedge a wet body into a dry wetsuit, or to coax a damp wetsuit onto dry skin.

Is a wetsuit better too tight or too loose?

In general, a wetsuit should fit snugly, like a second skin but not so tight that your range of motion is limited. The sleeves (if full-length) should fall at the wrist bone and the legs just above the ankle bone, and there should be no gaps, pockets, or rolls of neoprene.

Do wetsuits loosen when wet?

Wetsuits should be snug, but shouldn't be so tight that they interfere with breathing. They do tend to loosen up a little as they fill with water because when they are dry they tend to stick in some places and bunch in others.

Do you wear anything underneath a wetsuit?

How can I make a wetsuit easier?

Should a wetsuit be tight around the neck?

The fit around the neck should feel comfortable but tight. Ideally, you should be able to fit one finger in-between your neck and the suit. The secure neck stops excess water falling into the suit. Extra tip: Fastening the neck properly is also vital to stop any wetsuit rub and sore skin!

Do you wear anything under a wetsuit?

Wetsuits are designed keep you warm without anything special worn underneath. Here's what most people do: Surfing & General Watersports: Most surfers and riders wear boardshorts or a swimsuit. It's easy, convenient, and flexible.

Should you buy a wetsuit a size bigger?

It does not matter too much if it is too long on the arms and legs, as this has no additional warmth properties. If they are much taller than the size guide shows, ideally you want to choose the next size up, providing it is not a massive leap around the chest and kidneys.

How do I stop wetsuit legs filling with water?

A small hole punctured through the neoprene about 6" up from the anckle cuff at the back of the leg will allow any trapped water to be released. The elastic tension in your suit should push the water out fairly quickly. You might not want to do this on a brand new suit, but it definitly works.

What does a girl wear under a wetsuit?

For women you can wear a sports bra and some sort of compression shorts, or you can wear a swimsuit. You do not want to wear something cotton-based which holds water because it will increase your chaffing. Also, do not wear underwear. Underwear will not dry out and will cause a sore saddle.

How tight is a wetsuit supposed to be?

A properly fitting wetsuit should be very snug against your entire body with no bagginess or gaps. The wetsuit should feel like a second skin with little to no wrinkles across the major areas of the suit (torso, length of arms, thighs) and little to no gathers in the underarms or crotch areas.

What do you do with a new wetsuit?

Do wetsuits stretch with wear?

You wouldn't want to wear a loose-fitting wetsuit as it would be difficult to move in and not keep you as comfortable in the water. Although all neoprene stretches a little, the higher the grade the neoprene, the more it will stretch. Inexpensive, standard neoprene will stretch a bit.

Do wetsuits shrink?

Well the truth is, you might still have your so-called “winter coat” but the cold hard fact is that most wetsuits do shrink. In fact, some of them will shrink up to 14%.

How long does a wetsuit last?

On average, a good wetsuit from a quality manufacturer should last anywhere from 4 years to 10 years or more, depending on heavily you use it. A cheaper brand wetsuit that doesn't have the same construction quality may only last for a season or two before things like zippers become issues.

Can I cut the neck of my wetsuit?

I did cut the neck out of my very old Performance brand shortie last year. It worked great - zero complaints - although I was wearing it just for buoyancy and didn't care too much about cold water. I used it a few times.

How do I know what size wetsuit I need?

Is it OK to pee in a wetsuit?

Urinating inside a dry wetsuit is definitely not a good idea - it will start stinking and corroding the seams and stitching of your second skin. While in the lineup, if peeing is the only option, let some saltwater get in and drain out, avoiding lying down on your board for a long time.

Is it OK to fold a wetsuit?

If you need to pack your neoprene wetsuit or drysuit then the first rule is to never fold it. Every time you fold neoprene you create a crease by squeezing the tiny bubbles which not only looks bad but will greatly reduce the warmth in that area of the suit.

What to wear to try on a wetsuit?

The chest should be tight but should obviously not cut off any blood flow or restrict you from breathing. If the shoulders, chest and underarm fit snug, there is less chance of water entering your suit. Note that the wetsuit will stretch out slightly after wearing it, just like a pair of jeans.

How should a wetsuit fit a woman?

In general, a wetsuit should fit snugly, like a second skin but not so tight that your range of motion is limited. The sleeves (if full-length) should fall at the wrist bone and the legs just above the ankle bone, and there should be no gaps, pockets, or rolls of neoprene. Wetsuits fit more snug than clothing.

How do I know if my wetsuit is too big?

A simple test is to check whether a wetsuit is too big, is to see if you can reach around and zip it up easily yourself. If you can, then the chances are it is too large for your frame. Another method is to tug gently on the lower back, if there is no give then the fit is correct.