Choosing the Right Wetsuit

 Budget Glide Advice

“The wetsuit should fit like a second skin: comfortable, warm, and flexible.
Chosen correctly, it turns every session into a pleasure, even in cold water.”


1. Why choose your wetsuit carefully?

A neoprene wetsuit is essential equipment for staying warm and comfortable on the water.
 It allows you to:

  • Maintain body heat,

  • Protect skin from wind, sun, and chafing,

  • Improve endurance during long sessions.

A poorly fitting wetsuit = cold, fatigue, and discomfort.


2. Different types of wetsuits

Type

Description

Recommended use

Shorty

Short sleeves and legs

Summer / warm water (>20°C)

Full Suit 2/2 mm

Long sleeves and legs, thin neoprene

Mid-season / 18–22°C

Full Suit 3/2 mm

Versatile

Water 15–20°C, surfing and kiting

Full Suit 4/3 mm

Medium thickness

Water 10–15°C, mild winter

Full Suit 5/4/3 mm + hood

Very thick, reinforced areas

Cold water <10°C, long sessions

The choice depends on the type of sport, season, and session duration.

 

3. Size and fit

  • The wetsuit should hug the body without restricting breathing.

  • Too small → discomfort and limited circulation.

  • Too large → water circulates and cold penetrates.

Check:

  • Shoulders and arms for freedom of movement

  • Torso and legs for a good fit

  • Length of torso and legs

Always try on the wetsuit with the garment you intend to wear underneath (rashguard or lycra).

 

4. Technical details

Detail

Purpose

Zips

Back zip, Chest zip or zipless

Knee / elbow reinforcements

Abrasion resistance

Seams

Flatlock (summer) / Blindstitch / Glued & Blindstitch (winter)

Collar

Neck tightening and closure

Modern wetsuits combine flexibility, protection, and durability.


5. Thickness and conditions

Water temperature

Recommended thickness

Session type

>20°C

2 mm / shorty

Light surfing / kiting

18–22°C

2/2 mm

Mid-season

15–20°C

3/2 mm

Versatile

10–15°C

4/3 mm

Mild winter

<10°C

5/4/3 mm + hood

Cold water, long sessions

Choose a slightly thicker wetsuit if you get cold easily or have long sessions.

6. Comfort and accessories

  • Neoprene gloves for cold water

  • Neoprene booties for sensitive feet or cold spots

  • Hood for very cold water

  • Rashguard or lycra underneath to prevent chafing and protect from the sun

These accessories improve your comfort and safety.


7. Wetsuit care

✅ Rinse with fresh water after each session
 ✅ Dry in the shade, flat if possible
 ✅ Do not expose directly to sunlight
 ✅ Store flat or hung without forced folding
 ✅ Check seams and zippers regularly

A well-maintained wetsuit lasts several seasons and remains flexible.