What thickness wetsuit do I need for winter surfing?

For winter surfing in very cold waters (below 8°C), we recommend a 5/4mm or 6/5/4mm wetsuit from our Winter Wetsuits collection. These thicknesses provide optimal warmth and protection during the coldest months, typically December to February in most of the UK.

How should a winter wetsuit fit for best warmth and comfort?

A winter wetsuit should fit snugly without restricting your breathing or movement. It should be tight enough to trap a thin layer of water, which your body will heat, but not so tight that it causes discomfort. A proper fit prevents cold water from flushing in and helps maintain warmth during your surf sessions.

What are the differences between surfing wetsuits and scuba diving suits?

Surfing wetsuits are designed to be lighter and more flexible, especially in the arms and shoulders, compared to scuba diving suits. They also have specialized chest and back panels to block wind and maintain core warmth above water. Scuba suits tend to be thicker and less flexible, focusing more on deep water insulation rather than freedom of movement.

Which winter wetsuit brands do you recommend for different experience levels?

For beginners, Osprey wetsuits offer affordability and comfort for casual surfers. Intermediate surfers should consider Alder or Sola wetsuits, which provide a balance of price, performance, and durability. Advanced surfers benefit from Xcel wetsuits, known for premium warmth, top-tier materials, and long-lasting durability.

How do I care for my winter wetsuit to ensure it lasts?

Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water after every use, dry it in the shade, and store it on a wide hanger to avoid stretching. Avoid exposing your wetsuit to direct sunlight or using a tumble dryer, as this can damage the neoprene material and reduce the suit's longevity.

Buy Winter Wetsuits At Bob Gnarly Surf Winter Spring Summer Autumn

Winter Wetsuits

Surfing or paddling in UK winter waters can be brutal without proper winter wetsuits. The sea temperatures often sit between 5–12 °C in winter, sometimes dropping lower. A good winter wetsuit is crucial because it traps a thin layer of water next to your body, warms it up, and insulates you against freezing water and cold wind chill. Without that insulation, the cold can sap your energy, cut sessions short, or even risk hypothermia.

Beyond warmth, high-quality wetsuits improve safety and comfort. A full-length suit with sealed seams reduces water flushing, letting you stay longer in the sea. It also preserves mobility — crucial when paddling, duck-diving or riding waves — and keeps core body heat from escaping when you rest or fall off your board.

Under UK cold-water conditions, thickness matters. Wetsuits in the 4–5 mm range are widely recommended for water around 9–12 °C. In very cold water — or when air temperature and wind chill add chill factors — a 5 mm (or thicker) suit with hood, boots and gloves is often essential.

If you browse a shop like Bob Gnarly Surf Shop, you’ll find good wetsuits options from brands such as Xcel and Alder, both respected among UK surfers and watersports users.

Quick thoughts on those choices

Xcel Drylock or Infiniti 6/5 Hooded Wetsuit — One of the warmest suits available, with robust insulation and sealed seams. A great pick if you surf in harsh winter seas.
Xcel Axis 5/4mm Wetsuit — Solid all-rounder for UK winters: thick neoprene for warmth, but with flexibility for paddling and surfing.
Xcel Comp X Hooded Wetsuit 5.5/4.5mm — Combines high warmth with a hood and flexible neoprene — ideal for long winter sessions.
Xcel Comp 4/3mm Wetsuit — A lighter alternative for slightly milder conditions; may suit early winter or late spring if water is only moderately cold.

Why good winter wetsuits matter in the UK

The sea around the UK — especially in winter — is unforgiving. Cold water drains your body heat fast. Add wind chill and air temperature, and the cold intensifies. A well-fitting, well-insulated wetsuit protects your core temperature. That makes sessions safer and more enjoyable.

Firmer seals and hoods help keep water flushing out, which reduces heat loss. That matters especially if you fall off or spend long spells bobbing in the surf. In such situations, having a high-quality wetsuit isn’t just comfort — it’s a safety measure.

Also, using a good wetsuit lets you surf more often, even in shoulder or off-season. That means you get more time in the water, build skills, and enjoy the sport year-round — rather than waiting for summer sea temps.

Plus, shops like Bob Gnarly Surf Shop make it easy to find and try wetsuits from veteran surf brands like Xcel and Alder — and buy sizes suitable for your build. Bob Gnarly Surf

Winter Surf Checklist: What to pack and wear

Good wetsuit – Use a thick, full-body wetsuit. A 5/4/3 mm suit works well for UK winter conditions. Surfing England
Aim for neoprene with sealed seams, a snug fit, and minimal water flushing.

Hood – Cold water cools your head fast. A neoprene hood keeps heat in, especially if the water or air is very cold.

Boots (booties) – Wear neoprene boots so your feet don’t go numb. In UK winter, 5 mm boots are a common choice, though thicker boots add extra warmth.

Gloves (or mittens) – Hands lose heat quickly too. Neoprene gloves (3–5 mm) help maintain grip and paddle control. For really cold days, mittens or thicker gloves may be worth considering.

Thermal base layer / rash-vest (optional but useful) – A thin thermal under-suit or rash-guard beneath your wetsuit can add insulation. Good if you get cold easily or want to extend session times.

Cold-water surf wax – Use wax suited for low temperatures. This helps with grip on your board when everything feels colder and wetter than in summer.

Warm-up & post-surf gear – Before getting in, do light stretches or warm-up to get blood flowing.
After surfing, rinse wetsuit in fresh water and hang it inside out to dry. A changing poncho, towel or a warm robe helps you stay warm while changing.

Hot drink or snack afterwards – A hot drink or warm food after a cold session helps your core heat return and gives a quick morale boost.

Read Less