Wetsuits

Which Size?

 

Photo F2

 

Wetsuits for women and men are designed differently. It is crucial to choose the correct size. If it is too big water will enter, if it is too small you won’t be able to move anymore. For sure it is worth to try it in advance. You can find the nearest shop through the Spot Guide.

 

 

 

 

 

Which thickness?


A good wetsuit protects you against hypothermia and sunburn. The ideal type depends on the weather situation. The colder it is, the thicker the wetsuit has to be to keep you warm. Thickness is measured in millimeters and can be found in model name.

Photo F2 / Air Shorty 2.5

 

 

A shorty 3/2 for example, has an average thickness of three millimeters around the torso and two millimeters at arms and legs. For warm conditions with water- and air temperatures above 25°C this type could be your first choice. In addition to that, a Lycra shirt can protect you against sunburn.

 

 

 

 

 

Photo F2 / Rebel 5.3

 

 

If you’re windsurfing during summertime in Germany, France, Denmark or the Netherlands a long- sleeved 4/3 wetsuit can be recommended, in cooler conditions the isolation can be upgraded by combining your wetsuit with a titanium coated neoprene vest.

 

 

 

 

 

If you want to keep on surfing in late fall or even wintertime, wetsuits with five or six millimeters thickness are necessary. In addition to that you can wear neoprene shoes and a hood.

 

Photos Neilpryde

Photo Manuel Vogel

 

 

Mesh or double-lined?

Double-lined in comparison to meshed; Photo Manuel Vogel

 


There are two different construction types of wetsuits: Mesh or lined. Mesh wetsuits are comparatively warmer because the water peels off and wind chill is reduced significantly. On the other hand lined wetsuits are more durable.

 

Wet or dry?

 

Photo Neilpryde / Ladies Semidry 3K wetsuit

 


That standard wetsuits allow a larger or smaller amount of water to enter at the zipper and the cuffs. But this is not a problem, because the water warms very quickly to body temperature. At the so called “halfdry” suits the water exchange is reduced to a minimum and the water inside the suit works as a warmth cushion.

 

 

 

Photo Neilpryde / Mens 3k Drysuit


In case you want to windsurf during the cold wintertime, in air temperatures below 6-8°C, you should think of a drysuit. Those suits are comfortable and completely waterproof due to special latex cuffs. In combination with a drysuit you should use thermal polyester underwear. Drysuits are the warmest option for cold winter days, on the other hand they are expensive and very sensitive to damage.