Spring / Summer Wetsuits
As the temperatures rise we can all think about switching to summer wetsuits. Depending on your susceptibility to cold, that can mean a 4/3, or a 3/2 or even a 2/2 or shorty suit.
Summer suits are thinner and lighter to wear and can feel little less restrictive than their Winter counterparts. For our brief Summers here in the UK, you might get away with a 3/2 in the South, but still need a 4/3 in the North.
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Whether you're after a flexible and lightweight summer suit for carving lines on long summer days or a snug and comfy winter suit so you don’t have to cut your surf or dive sessions short when the cooler waters arrive, then our wetsuit range has you covered.
Surfing wetsuits differ from scuba suits in many ways. Unlike dive suits, they are much lighter and more flexible, particularly in the arms and shoulders.
Additionally, they feature specialized chest and back panels that effectively block wind and maintain core warmth while sitting on the board above water. To keep you warm, a wetsuit traps a thin layer of water between your skin and the neoprene material.
This water is then heated by your body, while the wetsuit prevents any leakage or excess water from entering. Because of its composition, neoprene also serves as a great wind barrier, significantly reducing any potential chill factor.
- Suits keep you warm while surfing in cold water. They are made from a stretchy material called neoprene.
- Suits trap a thin layer of water between your skin and the suit. Your body heats this water to keep you warm.
- A suit comes in different thicknesses. Thickness is measured in millimetres, like 5/4mm or 3/2mm.
- The first number is the thickness of neoprene in the torso. The second number is the thickness in the arms and legs.
- Thicker suits keep you warmer, but they are less flexible. Thinner suits give more movement but less warmth.
Wetsuit Thickness Guide
6/5/4mm or 5/4mm suits
These are winter suits for very cold waters. They are used in temperatures below 8°C.
Wear them from December to February in most of the UK and colder regions.
4/3mm suits
Ideal for spring and late autumn. These suits work well in water between 10°C and 14°C.
Use a 4/3mm suit from March to May and October to November.
3/2mm suits
These are summer suits. Best for warmer waters from 15°C to 20°C.
Wear these suits from June to September in the UK or spring through autumn in warmer countries.
Shorty wetsuits
Shorties have short arms and legs. They’re good for water over 20°C.
Wear a shorty in peak summer or when surfing abroad in tropical areas.
Types of Surfers and Wetsuits
Beginners – Osprey Wetsuits
Osprey makes affordable wetsuits for new surfers.
They offer decent comfort and warmth for casual surfing.
If you surf only in summer or a few times a year, Osprey is a great choice.
Osprey suits are also easy to find in sports stores and online.
Intermediate – Alder and Sola Wetsuits
Alder wetsuits balance price and performance. They’re perfect for surfers wanting more than just a basic suit.
Sola suits offer similar quality with stylish designs and improved flexibility.
These brands suit people who surf regularly through spring and autumn.
They offer warmer linings, better fit, and longer-lasting materials than entry-level brands.
Advanced – Xcel Wetsuits
Xcel wetsuits are premium quality. They are designed for serious surfers and cold water performance.
Xcel suits have high-end features like thermal linings, taped seams, and engineered fits.
They are more expensive, but they last much longer and perform better in tough conditions.
Choose Xcel if you surf all year and want the best warmth and durability.
Other Things to Know
Seams
Flatlock seams are breathable but let water in. They’re fine for summer suits.
Glued and blind-stitched seams are warmer and better for cold water suits.
Zips
Back zips are easiest to get on and off. Front zips (chest zips) give better fit and flexibility.
Some high-end suits have zip-free entries for ultimate stretch and minimal water entry.
Fit
Your wetsuit should fit snugly but not restrict breathing.
Too loose, and cold water will flush in. Too tight, and it’ll be uncomfortable.
Care
Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water after every use.
Dry it in the shade – never in direct sunlight or using a dryer.
Hang it on a wide hanger to avoid stretching the shoulders.
Conclusion
Choose your wetsuit based on water temperature, time of year, and your surf experience.
Osprey is great for beginners looking to surf occasionally.
Alder and Sola suit more frequent surfers wanting warmth and performance.
Xcel is for dedicated surfers seeking quality and durability.
The right wetsuit keeps you comfortable and safe, helping you enjoy every session in the water.
