Is a 5’4″ wetsuit too thick for surfing?
wetsuits ideal for winter surfing and cold water temperatures. A bit thicker than the 3/2, the 4/3 wetsuit is a warmer option and a must have for all surfers in the north east. The 4/3 wetsuit features 4mm neoprene in the core and back with 3mm through the extremities. Surfers in ne typically wear these suits in the spring and through the fall and early winter.Surf Seasons and Conditions Short-sleeve full wetsuits, spring suits and even wetsuit jackets are the norm during this time. But as the seasons shift from fall to winter, most surfers transition to 3/2 full wetsuits and 4/3 full wetsuits as water temps dip to the mid 50s during the coldest months.Recommended Budget for a Wetsuit The prices of decent fullsuits start at $100 for warm water surfing and over $300 for cold water surfing. But if you have extra money, spend it on suits that range from $200 to $350.Wettie. A “wettie” is surf slang for a wetsuit. Wetsuits are made from neoprene, a flexible, insulating material that keeps surfers warm in colder water.If your suit fits properly, that single thin layer of water becomes securely trapped, and because it’s trapped it will heat up. You’ll feel warm, lightweight, and happy when swimming. So a wetsuit should be a tight fit.
Do surfers wear bathing suits under wetsuits?
Swimwear We wouldn’t recommend boardshorts as your wetsuit is meant to be really tight and boardshorts are usually not. They tend to bunch up and could cause chafing and generally lead to discomfort. Women can wear a swimsuit or bikini, it’s just important to pick the right one. Wetsuits should be close fitting to your body without any bagginess, while still being able to move your arms and legs comfortably. However, it shouldn’t be too easy to get on and off, if it is easily done without much effort, it may be too big.Just like above, we’d highly recommend that if you want to wet a wetsuit before putting it on, then make sure you’re wet too. If you’re wet and the suit is dry, that could lead to tears or damage to the suit because you’re trying to finagle your way in something that’s just not working.Here’s how to achieve the ideal wetsuit fit: Snug but Not Restrictive: The wetsuit should fit snugly around your body without restricting your breathing or movement. If you feel constricted or unable to bend comfortably, the wetsuit might be too small.Whatever you use your wetsuit for, the most important thing to get right is the fit. Your wetsuit should feel snug and tight all over. If there’s excess material in places like the neck and cuffs, it will let water in and negate all its insulating properties. Don’t be too taken aback by the tightness of a wetsuit.
Is there a difference between a swimming wetsuit and a surfing wetsuit?
Generally, a lower thickness is recommended for open water swimming. As swimming involves more constant movement, your body heat will be higher than when surfing, naturally keeping you warmer. Alongside the overall thickness, where that neoprene is placed also differs between swimming and surfing suits. A 5mm neoprene thickness is ideal for water temperatures between 10°C and 15°C, offering warmth and a fair amount of flexibility for activities like surfing or diving. In warmer waters above 15°C, it may feel too warm, and a thinner wetsuit (3mm or 2mm) is a better choice.A 7mm is generally recommended for water temps between 50 and 70 F, but individual cold tolerance varies so dramatically that some will be fine at 50 and below even in a 5mm, while others will want a drysuit at 70. For me, in the local temperatures, a 5mm is not enough but a 7mm generally is.wetsuit thickness usually ranges from 2mm for hot summer days to 7mm for very cold conditions. The thickness you need depends on where you surf, the season, how easily you get cold, and how windy it is. Tip: be aware that next to shopping the right wetsuit thickness, also the right wetsuit size is really important.You’ll feel cold, weighed down, and sad. If your suit fits properly, that single thin layer of water becomes securely trapped, and because it’s trapped it will heat up. You’ll feel warm, lightweight, and happy when swimming. So a wetsuit should be a tight fit.
Why do surfers look younger?
Surfing is a full-body workout, engaging core, upper body, and leg muscles. This rigorous exercise increases blood flow, promoting oxygen and nutrient delivery to the skin, resulting in a healthy and youthful appearance. Moreover, consistent physical activity has been proven to slow down the aging process. You’re never too old to catch your first wave. Many people believe that surfing is only for the young, but that’s just a myth. Whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, or even 70s, the ocean welcomes everyone. Age is just a number when it comes to surfing. What truly matters is your passion and willingness to learn.The “peak age” for surfing is generally in the late teens to early thirties. However, for some, the peak of their surfing journey is simply the time when they feel most confident and free in the water. Many older surfers consider their prime to be when they’re fully comfortable with the ocean, regardless of age.
Why do surfers wear shirts over their wetsuits?
Rash Guard: A rash guard is a lightweight, moisture-wicking shirt that helps prevent chafing and provides sun protection. It can be worn under a wetsuit or on its own in warm conditions. Wearing it on top of your wetsuit allows you to be more visible – just avoid blue! The quick answer to the question of what to wear under a wetsuit is – it can be either nothing at all, a thin garment like a rash vest, compression shorts or bikini for comfort or for extra warmth a thermal hooded rash vest.Swimwear Men can wear swim shorts, briefs or jammers under a wetsuit. We wouldn’t recommend boardshorts as your wetsuit is meant to be really tight and boardshorts are usually not. They tend to bunch up and could cause chafing and generally lead to discomfort.
Why do most surfers wear black wetsuits?
The color black helps retain body heat better than lighter colors, which is helpful for surfers, SCUBA divers, and swimmers who need to stay in the water longer and need optimum temperature regulation. The color black acts as a shield from UV rays that can be harmful to your wetsuit, slowly compromising the neoprene over time. The color black helps absorb the UV rays from direct sunlight on the water, limiting the damage they can do to your wetsuit and keeping it working as long as it can.Neoprene: The Shield Against UV Rays An additional benefit of neoprene is its inherent ability to block UV radiation. The dense structure of neoprene prevents the penetration of both UVA and UVB rays, effectively safeguarding the skin covered by the wetsuit.