“What are the different types of wetsuits?”
Wetsuits are designed for different weather conditions, water temperatures and personal preferences. The four main types are: fullsuits, springsuits, short johns, and wetsuit tops.
Find out more in our “Wetsuit Guide”.
“What’s the difference between wetsuit zipper types?”
Front zips keep wetsuits warmer and are less prone to water getting into the suit. Back zips make wetsuits easier to get on and off but allow flushing. Zipperless suits offer great mobility but are trickier to get on and off.
For a breakdown of each, check out our guide on “How To Choose a Wetsuit”.
“What are the different types of wetsuit seams?”
The four most common types of wetsuit seams are flatlock, glued and blind stitched (GBS), taped, and liquid taped. Flatlock seams are good for springsuits as they’re durable but let water in. GBS seams offer improved warmth and reduce water entry and only partially penetrate neoprene. Taped seams provide increased flexibility and durability because of a thin neoprene tape on the seam. Liquid taped seams are featured on higher-end performance suits and are the most waterproof and flexible.
For more information, check out our guide on “Type of Wetsuits”.
“What's the difference between board shorts and swim trunks?”
Board shorts are designed specifically for surfing, but can double as swim trunks too. Swim trunks are designed for all other water activities and look more like street shorts, but for the water.
Learn more in our “Ultimate Guide to Boardshorts and Swimwear”.
“What should I wear under a wetsuit?”
Most surfers don’t wear anything under a wetsuit, but traditional swim briefs or compression shorts are an option if you want to wear something.
For more information, check out our “Boardshorts and Swimwear Guide”.
“What’s the purpose of a rash guard?”
Rashguards offer extra protection from UV rays in and out of the water. They’re made from quick-drying synthetic materials that are stretchy and durable.
Find out more in our guide on “Everything You Need to Know About Rashguards”.
“What wetsuit thickness should I wear in cold water?”
Fullsuits are primarily worn in water 65°F (18°C) and cooler, ranging from 4/3mm, 5/4mm, and 6/5/4mm thicknesses.
For a detailed chart on wetsuits by water temperature, check out “The Ultimate Wetsuit Thickness Guide”.
“What wetsuit thickness should I wear in warm water?”
Wetsuit jackets, springsuits and rash guards are usually worn in water warmer than 65°F (18°C), ranging from 0.5 - 2mm thicknesses.
For more information on different wetsuit thicknesses, check out our “Guide to Wetsuit Thicknesses”.
“How do I wash my wetsuit?”
Thoroughly rinse your wetsuit in freshwater and turn it inside out. Fold it over a hanger at the waist of the suit so as to not stretch the fabric and keep it in a shaded place. After a few hours, flip the suit inside out and continue to dry it.
For more details, read “How To Wash, Clean and Care for Your Wetsuit”.
“How can I quickly dry my wetsuit?”
While your wetsuit is inside out and folded over a hangar, squeeze the water out of the top and bottom half of the suit. After 30 minutes, repeat again. Flip it right side out and repeat until fully dry. Never leave your wetsuit to dry in direct sunlight.
For more information, check out “The Ultimate Wetsuit Care Guide”.
“Can you put a wetsuit in the washer and dryer?”
You should never use a washer, dryer, or laundry detergent to clean your wetsuit.
For more tips on what to avoid when washing your wetsuit, check out “How To Clean Your Wetsuit”.
“Can I fix a rip in my wetsuit?”
Use neoprene glue for holes and tears smaller than two inches. Tears between two and five inches can be repaired using a sewing needle and nylon string. For tears larger than five inches, it’s best to consult a wetsuit repair specialist.
For step-by-step instructions, check out “The Definitive Wetsuit Repair Guide”.
