Back zip or front zip?
Full suit or shorty?
A wetsuit is an essential piece of equipment for any surfer, whether beginner or experienced.
It is much more than just clothing: it protects against the cold, enhances comfort, and allows for longer surf sessions in various conditions.
Newave offers you a detailed guide to help you make the right choice among the many options available on the market.
1.Understanding the Different Types of Surf Wetsuits
According to Thickness and Water Temperature
Thin Wetsuits (2mm to 3mm)
Above 17°C water temperature, you can opt for a shorty format: a short-sleeved and short-legged wetsuit with 2mm of neoprene on the body.
Below 17°C, a full 3/2mm wetsuit is the right solution: 3mm on the torso and 2mm on the arms and legs to enhance freedom of movement! It is ideal for temperate summer waters.
Intermediate Wetsuits (3mm to 4mm)
The 4/3mm wetsuit is often considered the “all-season” wetsuit: 4mm on the torso, 3mm on the arms and legs. This type allows you to stay in cool water for a longer time and is ideal for mid-season.
You can choose a 4/3mm wetsuit for temperatures below 15°C.
Thick Wetsuits (4mm to 5mm)
Wetsuits ranging from 4mm to 5mm are designed for winter sessions.
It will be your best ally for braving water below 12°C.
Additionally, we recommend equipping yourself with hoods (integrated or not) and gloves to maximize comfort during winter surf sessions.
Choosing Based on the Type of Closure
Back-Zip Wetsuits
These wetsuits have a zipper on the back with a long pull cord.
Advantages? They are easier to put on and take off.
Additionally, back-zip wetsuits are more widespread and cheaper to buy.
However, they can be less effective at limiting water entry and flexibility since they do not perfectly conform to the curvature of the back.
Front-Zip Wetsuits
Unlike back-zip wetsuits, front-zip wetsuits have the zipper at the front of the wetsuit, near the chest.
They provide better waterproofing and limit water infiltration.
This model is more fitted and technical, often preferred by more experienced surfers.
2.Technical Selection Criteria
Materials
The Main Material of a Wetsuit:
Neoprene is the primary material of all surf wetsuits. Its properties vary depending on the quality of the neoprene and its thickness (measured in millimeters).
For neoprene selection, you can find different types:
Standard Neoprene: Affordable but less flexible and insulating.
Open-Cell Neoprene: Lighter and more flexible, provides better thermal insulation but is more expensive.
Eco-Friendly Neoprene: Made from natural rubber or recycled materials, more environmentally friendly.
Interior Linings
The choice of interior lining for your wetsuit determines comfort and thermal capabilities.
Fleece (Thermal Lining): Offers excellent thermal insulation, ideal for cold waters.
Mesh Skin: Dries quickly and provides good insulation, perfect for frequent surf sessions.
Jersey: The most common type of lining, offering a good balance between comfort and warmth.
Exterior: Seams and Assembly
The quality of seams is crucial for waterproofing and durability.
GBS (Glued and Blind Stitched) Seams: Most common, they offer good waterproofing and durability.
Welded Seams: Superior technology, making the wetsuit almost completely waterproof.
Flatlock Seams: Less waterproof but more comfortable, suitable for warm waters.
Thermo-Welded Seams: The premium option, combining strength and maximum waterproofing.
Technological Innovations to Watch For
Strategically placed stretch panels are made from a special neoprene containing a higher percentage of elastomers (up to 30-40% compared to 15-20% for standard neoprene). These panels are positioned at joints and high-movement areas: shoulders, armpits, crotch, knees, and elbows.
They improve mobility in key areas and reduce physical effort, perfectly adapting to the surfer’s morphology.
3.The Right Wetsuit for Every Surfer
The wetsuit fit must be perfect. It should be like a second skin—no gaps between the skin and the wetsuit, but not too tight to restrict movement.
The sleeve and leg lengths should also be correctly adjusted to each surfer.
Budget tips :
Which budget for which combination?
The entry-level budget: (100€ – 200€)
Here are the characteristics of the entry-level wetsuit:
Often a standard 2-3mm-thick neoprene wetsuit with basic flatlock or GBS seams, limited flexibility and little or no advanced technology.
For an entry-level wetsuit you can turn to brands like Tribord/Olaian (Decathlon), which offer excellent value for money for beginners.
Alder or Surf Naked offer basic, reliable wetsuits for temperate waters.
The Newave wetsuit for the mid-range budget: (200€- 350€)
A mid-range wetsuit doesn’t have the same features as an entry-level wetsuit.
Neoprene wetsuits come in various thicknesses (3/2mm to 4/3mm) with full GBS seams.
They also feature stretch panels in strategic areas. The neckline and sleeves are enhanced.
The Newave wetsuit is the perfect fusion of quality, comfort and style. Designed for surfers concerned about their environmental impact, the 4/3 mm Wildsuits 2023 reflect Newave Surfboard’s CSR commitment through sustainable manufacturing. Made from ultra-versatile limestone according to Newave Surfboard’s sustainable production principles, it is ideal for cold to temperate waters. Recommended for water temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C, this eco-friendly wetsuit perfectly exemplifies the Newave sustainability that surfers look for to stay warm and comfortable during their sessions while minimizing their ecological footprint.”
Tip: See also our blog article “PARTNERSHIP WILDSUITS”.
4.Investment tips
For beginners (occasional use)
Recommended budget: €150 – €250
Priority: Comfort and ease of donning
Recommendation: Local or national entry/mid-range brands
Estimated lifespan: 2-3 seasons with proper maintenance
For regular users (1-2 sessions per week)
Recommended budget: €250 – €350
Priority: Balance between flexibility, warmth and durability
Recommendation: High-end national or mid-range international brands
Estimated lifespan: 3-4 seasons with good maintenance
For regular surfers (several sessions a week)
Recommended budget: €350 – €500
Priority: Maximum performance, durability and advanced technologies
Recommendation: High-end international brands
Estimated lifetime: 4-5 seasons with rigorous maintenance
5.Care and preservation
Maintenance tips
To keep your wetsuit in good condition for as long as possible, we recommend rinsing it with fresh water after each use and drying it in the shade, away from direct sunlight.
You can also use a special neoprene product to remove salt, sand, organic residues and dirt that accumulate on your suit. It also softens the neoprene and prevents it from drying out.
Wetsuit service life
You should know that a quality wetsuit will last you between 2 and 4 years, depending on how you use and care for it.
Tears, holes, faulty seams or even a less elastic suit may be signs to replace your suit.
6. Additional tip
Consider exploring the second-hand market to buy your wetsuit. Well-maintained equipment can be found at affordable prices.
Before you buy, however, it’s a good idea to inspect the wetsuit to check the seams, the condition of the neoprene and areas such as the collar and cuffs for water ingress.
When choosing your wetsuit, take the time to assess your needs, budget and conditions!
