Back zip or front zip?
Full suit or shorty?
A wetsuit is essential equipment for any surfer, whether beginner or experienced.
It is much more than just a garment: it protects against the cold, improves comfort and allows you to extend your surfing sessions in varied conditions.
Newave offers you a detailed guide that will help you make the right choice among the many options available on the market.
1. Understanding the types of surf suits
Depending on the thickness and temperature of the water.
Thin combinations (2mm to 3mm)
Above 17°C water you can opt for the shorty format: a short-sleeved and short-legged surf suit with 2mm of neoprene on the body.
Below 17°C, the 3/2 mm full wetsuit is the right solution: 3 mm for the body and 2 mm for the arms and legs to improve freedom of movement! It is ideal for the temperate waters of the summer season.
Intermediate combination (3mm to 4mm)
The 4/3 wetsuit is often considered the "all-season" option: 4mm thick in the torso, 3mm in the arms and legs. This wetsuit model will allow you to stay in cooler water for a while. It's ideal for the mid-season.
You can choose the 4/3 setting for temperatures below 15°C.
Thick suits (4mm to 5mm)
Wetsuits of 4 to 5 mm are suitable for winter sessions.
It will be your best ally when facing water below 12°C.
We also advise you to equip yourself with balaclavas (integrated or not) and gloves to maximize comfort during your winter sessions.
Depending on the type of closure
Back-zip combinations
These jumpsuits have a closure in the back with a long zipper.
Their advantage? They are easier to put on and take off.
In addition, back-zip combinations are more widespread and cheaper to buy.
However, back-zips may be less effective at limiting water entry and flexibility because they do not perfectly conform to the curve of the back.
Front-zip combinations
Unlike back-zip suits, front-zip suits have the closure at the front of the suit, at chest level.
They provide better sealing and limit leaks.
This wetsuit model is more fitted and technical and is often preferred by more experienced surfers.
2. Technical criteria for selecting a wetsuit
3. The right surf suit for each person's practice
The wetsuit fit must be perfect; indeed, a surf wetsuit should feel like a second skin. There should be no gaps between the skin and the wetsuit, but it also shouldn't be too tight so as not to restrict movement.
The length of the sleeves and legs must also be adjusted correctly according to each surfer.
Budget tips:
What budget for which combination?Entry-level budget: (€100 – €200)
Here are the characteristics of an entry-level wetsuit: Often a standard 2-3mm thick neoprene wetsuit with basic flatlock or GBS seams, limited flexibility, and few or no advanced technologies. For an entry-level wetsuit, you can look at brands like Tribord/Olaian (Decathlon), which offer excellent value for money for beginners. Alder or Surf Naked offer basic and reliable wetsuits for temperate waters.The Newave surf suit for a mid-range budget: (€200-€350)
A mid-range wetsuit doesn't have the same features as an entry-level one. Neoprene wetsuits come in various thicknesses (3/2mm to 4/3mm) with fully stitched GBS seams. They also feature stretch panels in strategic areas. The neck and wrist seals are improved. The Newave wetsuit is the perfect blend of quality, comfort, and style. Designed for surfers mindful of their environmental impact, the 4/3mm Wildsuits 2023 reflects Newave Surfboard's commitment to CSR through its sustainable manufacturing. Made from ultra-versatile limestone according to Newave Surfboard's sustainable production principles, it's ideal for cold to temperate waters. Recommended for water temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C, this eco-friendly wetsuit perfectly illustrates the Newave sustainability that surfers seek to stay warm and comfortable during their sessions while minimizing their ecological footprint.Trick : See also our blog post “WILDSUITS PARTNERSHIP”.
4. Buying tips for its combination
For beginners (occasional practice)
Recommended budget: €150 – €250.
Priority: comfort and ease of putting on.
Recommendation: local or national entry/mid-range brands.
Estimated lifespan: 2-3 seasons with proper maintenance.
For regular practitioners (1-2 sessions per week)
Recommended budget: €250 – €350.
Priority: balance between flexibility, warmth and durability.
Recommendation: high-end national brands or mid-range international brands.
Estimated lifespan: 3-4 seasons with proper maintenance.
For regular surfers (several sessions per week)
Recommended budget: €350 – €500.
Priority: maximum performance, durability and advanced technologies.
Recommendation: high-end international brands.
Estimated lifespan: 4-5 seasons with rigorous maintenance.
5. Maintenance and storage of your suit
Maintenance tips
To keep your wetsuit in good condition for as long as possible, it is recommended to rinse it with fresh water after each use and to dry it in the shade, away from direct sunlight.
You can also use a special neoprene cleaner; it removes salt, sand, organic residue, and dirt that accumulate on your wetsuit. It also softens the neoprene and prevents it from drying out.
The lifespan of a suit
It is important to know that a quality wetsuit will last you between two and four years depending on your use and the maintenance of your wetsuit.
Tears, holes, failing seams or even a less elastic combination can be signs that it's time to replace your wetsuit.
Good deal: Take a look at second-hand markets to buy a quality wetsuit at a lower cost.
6. Additional advice
Consider exploring the second-hand market to buy your wetsuit. You can find well-maintained equipment at affordable prices.
Before buying the wetsuit, however, it is necessary to inspect it to check the seams, the condition of the neoprene and areas such as the collar and wrists to prevent water leaks.
When choosing your wetsuit, take the time to carefully assess your needs, your budget, and the conditions of your activity!