Choosing your first wetsuit is one of the most important investments you’ll make for your water sports journey. A good suit keeps you in the water longer by maintaining your body temperature and protecting you from the elements. To find the right one, you need to balance fit, thickness, and sport-specific design.
1. Prioritize Fit Above Everything
The golden rule is that a wetsuit must fit like a second skin. If it’s too loose, cold water will “flush” through the suit, making it useless for warmth.
- Signs of a good fit: It should feel snug and perhaps slightly restrictive when dry, but still allow you to breathe deeply and move your arms.
- Check the “air pockets”: Ensure there is no bunching or excess material at the lower back, under the arms, or behind the knees, as these are areas where water will pool.
- The “seal” test: Check that the neck, wrists, and ankles have a tight seal to prevent water from entering freely.
- Sizing tip: Wetsuit sizes differ from clothing sizes. Always refer to a specific brand’s size chart based on your height, weight, and chest measurement. Brands like O’Neill, Rip Curl, and Billabong offer specialized “Tall” (T) or “Short” (S) versions (e.g., MT for Medium Tall) for a more precise fit.
2. Match Thickness to Water Temperature
Wetsuit thickness is measured in millimeters (mm). You will often see two numbers, like 3/2mm, where the first number is the thickness at the torso (for core warmth) and the second is at the limbs (for flexibility).
| Water Temperature | Recommended Thickness | Suit Type |
|---|---|---|
| Above 22°C (72°F+) | 1mm-2mm | Rashguard or Shorty |
| 18°C-21°C (64°F-70°F) | 2mm-3/2mm | Shorty or Thin Fullsuit |
| 13°C-17°C (55°F-63°F) | 3/2mm | Fullsuit |
| 9°C-12°C (48°F-54°F) | 4/3mm-5/4mm | Fullsuit + Boots & Gloves |
| Below 8°C (Under 46°F) | 5/4mm-6mm+ | Hooded Fullsuit + Boots & Gloves |
3. Choose the Right Entry System
- Back zip: The most beginner-friendly and affordable. It features a long vertical zipper that is easy to get into, though it can be slightly less flexible and more prone to letting water in.
- Chest zip: Popular for surfing. It uses a shorter zipper across the chest, offering better flexibility and a tighter seal against water, though it is harder to put on.
- Zipperless: The most flexible option with the best seal, but very difficult for beginners to get into.
4. Understand Sport-Specific Needs
Not all wetsuits are created equal. Choose one designed for your specific activity:
- Surfing: Focuses on durability and flexibility in the shoulders for paddling. Look for reinforced knees.
- Swimming/triathlon: Uses “smooth skin” neoprene to reduce drag and is designed to provide extra buoyancy to help you stay horizontal in the water.
- Diving: Built with thicker, pressure-resistant neoprene for insulation at depth.
Final Buying Advice
If you are unsure, visit a local specialty shop to try on multiple brands, as each has a unique cut. Investing in a mid-range suit from a reputable brand often provides the best balance of longevity and comfort for a first-timer.
It’s also worth checking the average water temperature of the area where you plan to spend most of your time before you buy.
Ready to catch your first wave? Join us in Corralejo for a group lesson, a private lesson, a semi-private lesson or a family lesson – wetsuit, board and pick-up included. Questions? Read our FAQ or get in touch.