What’s the best wetsuit for cold water?
Overall, the Psycho Tech is easily one of the warmest yet most flexible suits out there and is one of our favorite hooded suits for its overall quality. We recommend it to surfers wanting maximum warmth and comfort in cold water. Read our full review here: O’Neill Psycho Tech Wetsuit Review. Many models also feature strategic body mapping for improved fit and comfort, alongside thermal linings like TechnoButter Firewall that provide exceptional insulation. This combination of innovative materials and design features makes O’Neill wetsuits a top choice for surfers seeking both performance and warmth.Thermal Layers In colder waters, thermal layers can enhance warmth and comfort. Thermal Rash Guards: Designed for insulation, these are made from materials like neoprene or fleece-lined fabric. Neoprene Shorts or Tops: Add extra warmth without too much bulk. These pair well with wetsuits in extremely cold conditions.A wetsuit is designed to provide thermal insulation by trapping a thin layer of water between the suit and the wearer’s body. This trapped water is then warmed by the body, creating a protective layer that helps retain heat and keeps the person warm in cold water, as the wetsuit material of neoprene is waterproof.While you’ll rarely see a surfer wearing a rash guard under their wetsuit, rash guards are still very commonly used and worn for sun protection. Another key reason for going commando under your wetsuit is due to the technological advances in neoprene wetsuit linings.When you first get into the water in a wetsuit, you’re still going to feel the cold water. A wetsuit works by letting water in between the neoprene and your skin, which your body then warms up. However, this can still cause cold water shock, especially for first-time wetsuit swimmers.
How to pick the best wetsuit?
There are four key attributes to consider when selecting the right wetsuit: Warmth, Flexibility, Durability, and Fit. Balancing these four attributes makes the perfect wetsuit. THE SCIENCE BEHIND WETSUIT THICKNESS Your body heats that water, and the neoprene helps retain the warmth. The thicker the neoprene, the warmer you will be, so thicker wetsuits are better suited for colder water. Wetsuit thickness usually ranges from 2mm for hot summer days to 7mm for very cold conditions.Thermals When you are planning on being in cold water, then thermal tops and shorts are soft, cosy and add an extra layer of warmth under your wetsuit. Perfect for colder days or for those that really feel the cold.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. They also require more frequent replacement than drysuits, as the neoprene material can degrade over time.If you’re surfing in colder climates, a wetsuit is essential for staying warm. Wetsuits hug your skin with a thin layer of water that your body heats to create a toasty insulation. For cold water surfing, you’ll need a full-length wetsuit, often called a “steamer,” made from thick neoprene.
How much should I pay for a good wetsuit?
Beginners should expect to spend $80–$150 for entry-level suits, while recreational surfers and divers should budget $180–$300 for better durability and comfort. Cold-water athletes need to prepare for $400–$600 wetsuits to ensure safety and insulation, and triathletes or pro divers often invest $500–$800+. Fashion giant Dior in collaboration with Vissla released the world’s most expensive surfing wetsuit in May. The creation is said to capture the “bewitching beauty of the aquatic world through an underwater snapshot. The snazzy ensemble can be purchased for a cool $3,300 USD.
What is too cold for a wetsuit?
When the water temperature measures between 50 and 65 degrees, wetsuits are strongly encouraged, and some races may require their use. Between 65 and 78 degrees, it’s typically the athlete’s choice of whether to wear a wetsuit. Wetsuits are designed to provide thermal protection from the cold water by securing your body’s heat. Unlike dry suits, which use air and multiple under-layers to retain heat (more on that in a minute), wetsuits insulate our body’s natural heat via a thin layer of water and the suit’s material.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.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.Some people do choose to wear nothing or “go commando” underneath their wetsuit – especially surfers. To some, the idea of a barrier between wetsuit and flesh is as distasteful and absurd as that of underwear to a kilt-wearing Highlands soldier. Pleasure and pain, however, are never far apart.