Searching for the Perfect Wetsuit for Guys. Here Are 15 Vital Tips to Find the Right Fit

Searching for the Perfect Wetsuit for Guys. Here Are 15 Vital Tips to Find the Right Fit

Measure Yourself Accurately – Get your exact chest, waist and height measurements

Searching for the perfect wetsuit that fits just right can feel like an endless quest. With so many options and variables to consider, it’s easy to end up with something too loose or restrictive. To find your perfect wetsuit match, start by getting extremely precise measurements of your chest, waist and height. Knowing these key numbers will make a world of difference when assessing size charts and specs. Use a soft measuring tape, avoid clothes and have someone assist you for maximum accuracy. For chest, wrap the tape around your back and front at nipple level and exhale normally. Measure your natural waistline just above your belly button. For height, stand against a wall barefoot and have your helper mark the top of your head. These measurements to the half inch will give you vital data to compare to sizing guides.

Consider Your Needs and Usage

Before shopping, think about how you’ll primarily use your wetsuit. Will it be for casual surfing, intense competition or both? Are you looking for maximum warmth or flexibility? These factors help determine what thickness of neoprene and type of wetsuit style will work best. If you mainly surf in warm water, a springsuit style allows more mobility. Colder environments call for a fullsuit with thicker 5/4 or 6/5 mm neoprene for insulation. For multi-season or transitional use, a 3/2 mm can bridge the gap well.

Get the Right Fit

Using your detailed measurements, pay close attention to size charts and select options in your precise range. A wetsuit that is too loose will flush cold water, while one that is too tight will be restrictive and uncomfortable. The ideal fit should feel snug when dry without limiting your range of motion. Focus on a tailored match in the shoulders, torso and thighs but allow room to slip on and off. Well-fitting seals at the wrists, ankles and neck will prevent flushing.

Prioritize Range of Motion

A wetsuit is useless if you can’t move freely in the water. Carefully test mobility when trying on suits, lifting your arms overhead and bending at the hips and knees. Look for flexible materials with minimal seams in the shoulder and back. Pay attention to any tight spots that catch or pinch, which will hinder paddling and surfing. If your mobility feels compromised, size up or try a different brand or style.

Get the Right Thickness

Determine the right neoprene thickness for your climate and needs. Warmer waters call for 2-3mm suits, while 4-6mm provides insulation in colder conditions. Competitive swimsuits are ultra-thin 1mm for unrestricted movement. Thicker suits also offer more durability and last longer. Get the maximum warmth you need while still allowing flexibility. Err on the warmer side if between sizes.

Focus on Quality Construction

Inspect seams, stitching and seals for solid craftsmanship. Quality glued and blind-stitched seams prevent flushing. Ankle and wrist seals should fit snugly without pinching. Check neck openings for a comfortable seal that keeps water out. Avoid suits with weak construction that will stretch out, flush or deteriorate quickly. Pay more for resilient materials built to last.

Consider Special Features

Look for wetsuits with useful features that match your needs. Strategic seamless paddle zones enhance arm mobility. Knee pads add protection and grip for paddling. An adjustable collar improves the neck seal while allowing easy on/off. Built-in drainage holes let water flush quickly. Zipper protectors prevent chafing. Weight the pros and cons of any special features.

Get the Right Back Zipper

Back zippers make getting in and out much easier, but can let in more water. Look for a rubber-sealed visor zipper with minimal leaking. The zipper should be easily reached and opened alone. If warmth is your top priority, a chest-zip wetsuit has less flushing. Weigh mobility vs. insulation when choosing zipper type.

Try Different Brands and Styles

It’s smart to try on a few different brand options, as sizing can vary. While one large may be perfect, another may fit too snug. Take note of brands that match your body type well. Also test different styles to find your ideal fit. A fullsuit may provide more coverage and warmth, while a springsuit offers greater freedom.

Get the Right Colors and Graphics

While not as crucial as fit and function, wetsuit colors and graphics are still important. Bright colors enhance visibility for safety. Choose a color and graphic design that speaks to your personal style and brings a smile. Just be sure to prioritize fit first before color.

Check for Covered Seams

Flip a wetsuit inside out and look for covered seams, which prevent flush and enhance insulation. Completely sealed and glued interior seams don’t allow water penetration. Also inspect the exterior for strong, secure stitching without gaps or fraying edges.

Consider Wind and UV Protection

A good wetsuit should shield you from the elements beyond just cold. Look for models made of neoprene treated to provide UV protection. Wind-resistant linings add another layer to retain warmth and prevent chill. Getting this extra coverage means you stay comfortable before, during and after surfing.

Get the Right Thickness in Each Section

High-end wetsuits have varying thicknesses strategically placed to enhance mobility while retaining warmth.Instead of an uniform thickness throughout, they’ll use thinner 1-2mm neoprene in flex areas like armpits, lower back and behind the knees. Colder spots get a warmer 3-5mm thickness. This tailored insulation keeps you protected without overheating active areas.

Make Sure It’s Not Too Buoyant

Overly buoyant wetsuits make it challenging to duck dive under waves and can cause injuries. Test a suit’s buoyancy in shallow water before buying. You want some lift to keep your lower body elevated but not so much that popping up and down is difficult. Find the right balance of buoyancy for your skills and surf style.

Don’t Be Afraid to Spend More

While pricey, investing more money in the right premium wetsuit pays off through better fit, performance and longevity. Cheaper suits stretch out quicker, flush more easily and deteriorate faster. Prioritize quality construction and materials for a wetsuit you’ll enjoy for years of surf and fun.

Take Good Care of Your Wetsuit

Once you find the perfect wetsuit, be sure to care for it properly to maximize its lifespan. Rinse inside and out with fresh water after each use and avoid hot tubs and pools with chemicals. Dry thoroughly outside away from direct sun, then store in a cool, dry place. Repair any tears immediately and get occasional professional cleanings.

Choose the Right Thickness – Consider water temp and activity for the right wetsuit thickness

Selecting the proper wetsuit thickness is crucial for maximizing comfort, mobility and warmth while surfing. The right neoprene thickness varies based on water temperature and your intended activities. Carefully weighing these key factors helps dial in an ideal suit thickness for your needs.

Colder water calls for increased insulation from thicker neoprene. Warmer conditions allow you to get away with a thinner, more flexible suit. Are you surfing through a Northeast winter or catching waves in SoCal? Your local conditions determine ideal suit thickness. Also factor in whether you’ll be engaged in high-exertion surfing or mellower paddling. More strenuous activity generates body heat that lets you drop a millimeter or two.

1-2mm – Ultra-thin for warmth and freedom

At just 1-2mm, these super stretchy wetsuits offer minimal insulation but unrestricted mobility. Best for warm water surfing or high-performance competition when flexibility trumps warmth. Also a good choice for layering under a thicker wetsuit for added comfort.

2-3mm – Lightweight for year-round mild climates

This mid-range thickness works great for temperate climates year-round. Provides a decent amount of warmth while maintaining plenty of flexibility. The 3/2 thickness combo offers good versatility for changing seasonal temps. Ideal for surfing, bodyboarding, windsurfing and SUP.

4-5mm – Keeps you warm in cold water

When the water dips below 60 degrees, a 4/3 or 5/4 wetsuit brings essential insulation. Designed to keep you comfortable in chillier surf. The thicker neoprene does limit mobility slightly, but enables longer sessions. Go a bit thicker if you tend to run cold in the water.

6-7mm – Maximum warmth for frigid conditions

Only the thickest suits like 6/5 and 7/6mm will provide enough protection for extremely cold water and air. Allows winter surfing of frigid swells, but mobility will be restricted some. Going this thick means you’ll stay toasty for extended outings in the snow and ice.

Strategic thickness zones boost warmth and mobility

Many high-performance wetsuits utilize varying thicknesses in different zones to balance insulation and dexterity. Thinner 1-2mm neoprene is used on the back and underarms for unhindered paddling. Thicker 5mm rubber on the chest and back provide core warmth. This strategic design philosophy maximizes overall function.

Consider your personal tolerance and circulation

Your individual traits also factor into ideal wetsuit thickness. If you tend to feel cold in the water, bump up a millimeter or two. Swimmers with good circulation can often size down. Build, body fat percentage and age can also impact your thermal experience. Consult sizing guides but also trust your instincts.

Factor in extended time in the elements

Think about not just water temperature, but total time exposed to cold air and sea. Long or frequent waiting periods between sets means more insulation is better. Remote surf spots also call for a warmer suit to account for longer exposure.

Don’t overdo it on thickness

While it’s enticing to just get the thickest option for maximum warmth, going too thick can backfire. Overheating leads to sweating and discomfort. Excessive rubber also becomes restrictive, impairing the fun. Find the Goldilocks thickness that’s just right.

Consider jumping up a size for added comfort

For a bit more comfort and flexibility, try sizing up while dropping the thickness an equivalent amount. A 4/3 in large can feel roomier than a 3/2 in medium. This balanced trade-off maintains warmth while reducing restraint.

Match thickness to your skill level and exertion

Highly active surfing means you can get away with slightly thinner suits versus mellower SUP sessions. Advanced surfers working hard to carve up waves run hotter than beginner paddlers. Dial in thickness based on your pace and intensity.

Factor in layering other protective gear

If layering wetsuit shorts, vests, hoods or booties, you may be able to drop a millimeter in suit thickness. Combining garments enhances overall insulation and warmth. But avoid too many restrictive layers.

Consider your specific planned activities

Are you surfing, diving, kiteboarding or swimming? High-exertion open ocean surfing allows a thinner suit compared to relatively sedentary free diving. Decide on ideal thickness within the context of your intended aquatic adventures.

Ask experienced locals for thickness guidance

Those who surf or paddleboard your home waters year-round have wisdom on what thicknesses work in different seasons. Consult surf shops or veteran water folk for thickness tips tailored to your region.

Dialing in the ideal wetsuit thickness is a delicate balance, but pays big dividends in comfort, mobility and warmth. Consider all the variables of your climate, activities, layering and personal tolerance as you zero in on that Goldilocks amount of neoprene. You’ll be catching waves and enjoying the ocean longer as you find wetsuit thickness perfection.