Is a 5mm wetsuit too thick for swimming?
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 5/3 mm wetsuit, also called a 5. The thicker neoprene in the chest keeps you warm while the 3mm neoprene in the arms and legs allow you to move freely while surfing.May 2025: We are concerned at the growing number of brands who are stating they are selling “open water swimming wetsuits” but these are not safe open water swimming wetsuits. A safe open water wetsuit should be a 3:3 thickness for women and a 3:5 thickness for men.A 5/3 mm wetsuit, also called a 5. The thicker neoprene in the chest keeps you warm while the 3mm neoprene in the arms and legs allow you to move freely while surfing.For different top and bottom sizes, we recommend opting for a larger alternative of up to two sizes. Women’s wetsuits can sometimes feel slightly constricted around the neck, but this will feel more comfortable once you’re in the water.
What are the disadvantages of a wetsuit?
The main disadvantage of wetsuits is that they can still be quite cold in colder water temperatures, as they allow water to enter and then warm up against the body. In that case, wearing something under your wetsuit probably isn’t necessary. You’ll likely be using a shorty wetsuit, also, because a full wetsuit would be too hot. If, however, you want extra sun protection, you could wear a long sleeve shirt under your shorty wetsuit.This is a practice known as going commando. Because of the wetsuit’s tight fit, wearing anything under it can feel unpleasant at times. Wearing nothing between your wetsuit and your skin reduces the quantity of water that can enter. You’ll be warmer if you decide to go nude beneath your wetsuit.Wetsuits are permitted if the water temperature is below 78°F (25. C), but athletes cannot wear wetsuits if the temperature is above that.It should fit like a second skin, tightly wrapped around your body. After all, a wetsuit only works when the fit is right. On the other hand, you don’t want it to be too restrictive or tight, and want to avoid excess material in areas like your armpits, lower back and behind your knees.Just like with most things in life, wetsuits naturally lose warmth over time due to factors like neoprene degradation, frequent use, exposure to UV rays, and improper care.
Is it okay to wear nothing under a wetsuit?
Yes, it is. Many people choose to wear nothing under their wetsuit. Wetsuits are designed to fit snugly against your body, and the fewer layers underneath, the better the insulating effect. For some, this is the most comfortable option, especially during short sessions or in warm conditions. If you’re not used to a wetsuit or yours doesn’t fit, you may have a problem. It could end up causing your technique to change and affect your breathing rhythm. Both of which will lead to a slower swim!If your wetsuit is too loose, cold water will enter the suit freely or “flush through”. Water sloshing around in your wetsuit isn’t conducive to you being the best you. You’ll feel cold, weighed down, and sad.WETSUIT FIT: WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR The right fit is determined by the following: The suit should feel snug and slightly tight the first time you try it on. This is completely normal. Moving freely and being able to breath should obviously still be possible.The chest should be tight but should obviously not cut off any blood flow or restrict you from breathing. If the shoulders, chest and underarm fit snug, there is less chance of water entering your suit. Note that the wetsuit will stretch out slightly after wearing it, just like a pair of jeans.Get it Wet Wearing your wetsuit in water helps it adapt more quickly to your shape. Take a short swim or soak it before your first full session.
Is it better to have a tighter or looser wetsuit?
How Should a Wetsuit Fit? In general, a wetsuit should fit snugly, like a second skin, but not so tight that your range of motion is limited. On average, a wetsuit lasts between 1 to 3 years, but this depends heavily on how often and how intensely you use it. Let’s take a closer look at what to expect.Wetsuits are made of neoprene which is a type of synthetic rubber. Because it is a type of rubber, it will stretch if it is pulled on hard enough and/or enough times. New wetsuits will tend to stretch significantly when they are used the first few times. Wetsuits will also loosen and stretch slightly when they get wet.After every session, you have to wash your wetsuit in order to get it fresh and ready for the next one. Apart from eliminating sand, salt, and odors, regular care will make your wetsuit last much longer. The good news is that washing your wetsuit isn’t that hard.
Do thicker wetsuits keep you warmer?
Colder water requires a thicker suit: more millimetres of neoprene for insulation. Wetsuits with two or more numbers feature different thicknesses. For warmth, the thickest neoprene is centred at the core of the body while arms and legs feature thinner neoprene for flexibility paddling. Sports bras and appropriate underwear provide extra support and comfort under a wetsuit. A sports bra enhances warmth and helps prevent chafing and these undergarments ensure a snug fit, allowing for freedom of movement and added comfort during water activities.For many women, the simplest and most common choice is to wear nothing under their wetsuit. This option ensures: Maximum flexibility: No extra fabric to bunch up or restrict movement. Streamlined fit: Allows the wetsuit to conform closely to the body as it was designed for better insulation.