Which is the right wetsuit for you?

Wetsuits are a lot like surfboards: So many brands, models, and options… it’s easy to get lost in the choices. But don’t worry – when picking the right wetsuit, it’s not just about looks or gut feelings. There are some hard facts you should keep in mind, and we’re here to help you make sense of it all!

Why Choosing the Right Wetsuit Is So Important

Surfing isn’t just about your board and the waves – the right wetsuit can make or break your day in the water! Picture this: you paddle out, the sun’s shining, the waves are perfect… and suddenly you start shivering. Not fun, right? That’s why picking the right wetsuit is crucial. It keeps you warm, protects you from sunburn, and lets you move freely, almost like you’re not even wearing one.

And let’s be real: nobody wants to cut their session short just because it’s too cold. The right wetsuit makes sure you stay comfortable and end the day with a big smile on your face.

So now you’re probably asking: Which wetsuit is right for me? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Whether the water is cold or warm, windy or calm – there’s a wetsuit for every condition, and we’ll show you how to find the perfect one!

Surfer sitting on a surfboard watching the ocean

What to Consider When Choosing Your Wetsuit

Alright, let’s get into the details – there are a few key things to keep in mind when picking a wetsuit to make sure you’re not only looking stylish but also feeling comfy out on the waves.

1. Water Temperature and Surf Conditions

Water temperature is one of the most important factors. Imagine being in cold water with a wetsuit that’s too thin – the fun fades fast. Or you’re surfing in tropical waters and sweating in a thick suit. So, the right thickness depends on how warm (or cold) the water is. General rule: the colder the water, the thicker the wetsuit. For chilly conditions (under 15°C), go for a thick steamer, while in warmer water (over 20°C), a shorty might do the trick.

2. Thickness – How Thick Should Your Wetsuit Be?

Wetsuits come in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 2mm to 6mm. Thickness affects both warmth and flexibility. Thinner suits (2-3mm) give you more freedom of movement but less warmth. Thicker ones (5mm and up) keep you in the water longer but can be a bit more restrictive. You’ve got to find the sweet spot between warmth and flexibility.

3. The Perfect Fit

Your wetsuit should fit like a second skin – but don’t worry, it’ll stretch a bit once it’s wet. Make sure it’s snug enough to keep water out, but not so tight that you can’t breathe. No wrinkles or air pockets – otherwise, it won’t keep you warm and you’ll start shivering sooner. Best bet: try it on, move around a bit, and if it feels comfy, you’ve probably found the right size!

Surfers stretching on the beach with a dog

What Types of Wetsuits Are There?

Now you might be wondering: Which wetsuit is right for me? Don’t worry, we’re keeping it simple. There are three main types, differing in length, thickness, and function – and it all depends on the surf conditions and your personal preferences. Let’s break down the options:

1. Steamer – The All-Rounder

The steamer is the classic wetsuit and the go-to choice for most surfers. Whether you prefer long or short sleeves, it’s available in both. The steamer is your best bet when water temperatures range from 7°C to 19°C. Perfect for those cooler days when you want to hit the waves without freezing. Bonus: it not only keeps you warm but also offers great protection against wind!

surfcoach teaching surf students on the beach in Morocco

2. Longjohn – Freedom to Move

The longjohn is more of a secret tip among wetsuits, especially popular with sailors and paddlers. The trick? No sleeves! This means maximum freedom for paddling – perfect if you love stand-up paddling or other water sports along with surfing. Plus, the open neck area offers more comfort and avoids that “choking” feeling some people get with tighter wetsuits.

3. Shorty – The Summer Hit

As the name suggests, the shorty is the short version of a wetsuit, ideal for warmer days and tropical waters. It keeps your upper body warm while leaving your arms and legs free – meaning more flexibility and a lighter feel. Perfect when the water’s warm (above 19°C) and you still want a bit of protection, whether it’s from the sun or minor scrapes while riding the waves.

surfer girl in a white wetsuit surfing a green wave

Fit and Comfort – Your Wetsuit as a Second Skin

Your wetsuit should feel like it was made just for you – and not just on dry land! Once you’re in the water, it should feel so comfortable that you barely notice it’s there. Here are a few tips to make sure your suit fits well and you’re enjoying maximum comfort.

Fit: How Your Wetsuit Should Sit

A good wetsuit should cling to your body – no wrinkles, no air pockets, and no tightness either. Think of it like a second skin: tight enough to keep water out but flexible enough to let you move freely. If it’s too loose, water will sneak in, and you’ll get cold faster. So make sure it fits snugly, even if it feels a bit tight at first – it will loosen up a bit in the water.

Comfort: Freedom to Move and Easy On/Off

Nothing’s more annoying than a wetsuit that restricts your paddling or popping up on your board. To move freely in the water, the stretch factor in the material is key. The more stretch, the more freedom you’ll have when paddling and surfing.

And when it comes to putting it on and taking it off, it shouldn’t feel like a battle. Luckily, most modern wetsuits have zippers either at the front or back, making it a breeze to get in and out. Just make sure you can easily slip it over your shoulders and the zipper doesn’t get stuck – that way, the fun starts in the water, not with a struggle on the beach.

3 Handy Tips for Putting On, Taking Off (and Drying) Your Wetsuit

Tüte über die Füße – easy rein: Klingt simpel, aber wirkt Wunder: Wenn du eine Plastiktüte über deine Füße oder Hände ziehst, rutscht der Neoprenanzug viel leichter über deine Haut. Vor allem, wenn der Neo noch etwas eng ist, spart dir das eine Menge Gezerre!
In der Wanne ausziehen – kein Sandchaos: Wenn du aus dem Wasser kommst, klebt meistens noch etwas Sand an dir. Um zu vermeiden, dass du deinen Neo beim Ausziehen in den Sand legst, kannst du dich einfach in eine kleine Plastikwanne stellen. So bleibt alles sauber, und der Neo trocknet danach viel schneller, weil er nicht voller Sand und Dreck ist.
Trocknen wie ein Profi – keine nassen Überraschungen: Häng deinen Neo zum Trocknen am besten über einen breiten Kleiderbügel (nicht die dünnen, die hinterlassen unschöne Abdrücke). Alternativ kannst du ihn über die Mitte legen, damit sich das Gewicht gleichmäßig verteilt. Bonus-Tipp: Kehr den Anzug nach der Hälfte der Trockenzeit um, damit auch die Innenseite gut trocknet. Nichts ist schlimmer, als in einen halb-nassen Neo zu schlüpfen!

Top-Quality Gear – Hurley Surf Club

We don’t settle for anything less than the best: we’re proud to be the first Hurley Surf Club in Africa! That means you’re not only surfing in a killer spot but also with top-notch gear. Our wetsuits and boards are from Hurley, a brand that’s been part of surf culture forever. Hurley is all about quality and style – but most importantly, performance in the water.

Their wetsuits aren’t just lightweight and flexible – they’re warm enough to keep you in the water longer without freezing. Perfect for those who want to push themselves while staying comfortable. Whether you’re just starting out or have been surfing for a while – with Hurley gear, you’re set and will feel like a pro, even if you’re still working on catching those waves.

Ready to Hit the Water?

Now that you know which wetsuit suits you best and why our Hurley gear is top-notch, it’s time to hit the waves! Our surf courses are perfect for beginners and advanced surfers – we’ll give you not only great instruction but also the best gear to make your surf trip unforgettable.

Check out our courses and book your surfcamp today – we are looking foward to getting to know you!