Choosing the right wetsuit can make or break your time in the water. Too cold and your session gets cut short. Too warm and you're overheating before you’ve caught a wave. Whether you're surfing year-round or just extending your sessions into colder seasons, picking the right wetsuit comes down to a few key factors: thickness, fit, seams, zip style, and water temperature.
Here’s a straightforward guide to help you choose the right wetsuit for your needs.
1. Start with Water Temperature
Wetsuit thickness is measured in millimetres — typically shown as two or three numbers (e.g. 4/3mm, 3/2mm). The first number refers to the thickness of the neoprene in the torso, while the second (or third) refers to the thickness in the arms and legs. Thicker suits mean more warmth, but less flexibility.
General guide:
|
Water Temperature |
Wetsuit Type |
Thickness |
|
21°C+ (70°F+) |
Springsuit or none |
1–2mm |
|
17–21°C (63–70°F) |
3/2mm full suit |
3mm torso / 2mm limbs |
|
12–17°C (54–63°F) |
4/3mm full suit |
4mm torso / 3mm limbs |
|
8–12°C (46–54°F) |
5/4/3mm or 5/4mm |
Hood optional |
|
< 8°C (<46°F) |
6mm+ with hood, gloves, boots |
Full winter gear |
Note: This is a general guide — personal tolerance and wind conditions also play a role.
2. Get the Right Fit
A wetsuit should feel snug but not restrictive. Too loose and it will flush cold water; too tight and it’ll be uncomfortable and limit movement. The suit should sit flat against your skin with no major gaps, especially around the neck, lower back, and underarms.
Fit tips:
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Try lifting your arms over your head — there should be tension, but not pulling or discomfort.
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Crouch down — the suit should move with you without creating pressure points behind the knees or at the crotch.
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Avoid wrinkles or bunching — these can let in water and reduce insulation.
3. Seams and Stitching Matter
The way a wetsuit is stitched plays a big role in its warmth and durability.
Types of seams:
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Flatlock – Best for warm water. Not sealed, so it allows some water in.
-
Glued & Blindstitched (GBS) – Warmer and more water-tight. Ideal for mid-temp to cold water suits.
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Taped seams / Liquid sealed – Used in higher-end suits for cold water. Maximum warmth and minimal flushing.
4. Chest Zip, Back Zip, or Zip-Free?
Each zip style has pros and cons, and it often comes down to personal preference.
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Back Zip – Easy entry, good for beginners. Slightly more prone to flushing.
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Chest Zip – Better seal, more flexibility across the back. Slightly trickier to get in and out of.
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Zip-Free – Lightweight, flexible, and minimal flushing if well-fitted. Can be a challenge to put on.
5. Don’t Forget the Extras
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Hooded wetsuits – Essential for cold water. A hood helps retain body heat, as you lose a lot through your head.
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Boots and gloves – Needed in colder climates (generally under 12°C/54°F). Make sure these fit snugly and don’t let water pool.
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Lined suits (e.g. thermal or quick-dry linings) – Add insulation and comfort without extra thickness.
Final Tips
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Try before you buy if possible — sizes vary between brands.
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Invest in quality — a good wetsuit will last longer, stay warmer, and perform better over time.
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Rinse with fresh water after every session and dry out of direct sun to extend the life of your suit.
Need Help Choosing?
If you're not sure what you need, come by the shop — we can help you find the right thickness, fit, and style for your local conditions. We stock a full range of suits for men, women, and kids — from summer springsuits to cold water full suits, including top brands like Volcom, Vissla, Roxy, C-Skins, Quiksilver and more.