What wetsuit should i buy

Not only does a chest zip wetsuit feel comfier as you don't have a zip running down the length of your back, but it is more flexible because the zip across the chest is much shorter in length. Wetsuits now come with no zips. Its design is similar to a chest zip wetsuit as you enter the wetsuit through the top, pull the flap over your neck, but this time there is no zip to fasten, simply just tighten a cord. This type of construction creates easy entry and exit whilst reducing weight and bulk.

These suits are believed to be the most comfortable and flexible on the market as there is no zip to restrict movement. If you are lucky enough to live in the UK, you are going to need a wetsuit at some point especially during those cold, frosty winter months!

Average sea temperatures in the UK can range from as high as C in the summer and C in the winter depending on location. Generally, wetsuits come with a mix of two neoprene thicknesses. The principle is simple. Be sure to investigate the technology behind your wetsuit in order to understand how far wetsuit development in the 21st century really has come!

The way in which a wetsuit is stitched or glued to together is arguably the most important aspect of wetsuit construction. The panels that make up a wetsuit are fastened together by stitching along the seams.

This is done in a way that maximises flexibility and encourages movement of the arms as to not restrict your paddle ability. If you buy a cheap wetsuit from a supermarket, except water to flood through the seams, your wetsuit to rub from the poor seam stitching, and you to be rapidly looking into buying a new suit.

With the wetsuits that we provide, they consist of either flatlock stitched or glued and blind-stitched GBS. This is where the stitching involves laying the neoprene panels over each other, then stitching the neoprene together. This provides the wetsuit seams with strength. However, it is often said that this type of stitching is subject to high water penetration and is less comfortable than a GBS stitched wetsuits. This type of stitching is often found in wetsuits at the cheaper end of the market.

This is now the most common method of wetsuit stitching. It is where the neoprene is joined together with glue then stitched on the inside, the needle does not pass straight through the material resulting in a comfier and more water tight wetsuit.

This type of stitching is most common amongst winter wetsuits and are often slightly more expensive than wetsuits that have flatlock stitching. Taped or glued seams will not only give you a comfier feeling when your wetsuit is on, but it will crucially minimise water entry into your wetsuit. Here are the most common: Steamer: Full length arm and full length leg wetsuit. Short arm steamer: Half length arm like a t-shirt and full leg length.

Ideal for spring or short winter surfs if you are warm blooded. Springsuit: Or Springy Short arm and Short leg length. Can also come with a long arm and short leg. Great for spring and Summer. Long John and Short John: Sleevless in the arms Like a singlet and either has a long leg length or short leg length. Frees you shoulders for paddling. Jacket or wetsuit top: Can be long arm or short arm and only covers yours torso.

Can have no zip, half back zip or full front zip. Perfect for a warm summer. Thickness The thickness of a wetsuit will not only greatly affect how warm a wetsuit will be but also how flexible it will be. Sealed vs. Unsealed These days only the entry level or low cost wetsuits will not be sealed but what does this mean? Glued Seams: The panels are glued together prior to stitching, increasing the strength of the seam and creating a waterproof seal Spot Taped Seams: Tape is glued to the inside of the seam in critical areas to add additional strength where needed Fully Taped Seams: Tape is glued to the inside of every seam.

This helps to enhance flexibility and movement of the arms, making sure that there is no restriction when you take to the waves. So, buying a cheap wetsuit from a supermarket will only provide you with a poor-fitting suit and may result in the material rubbing your skin and causing unnecessary irritation.

Aside from when and what you will be using your wetsuit for, budget is the next biggest decider in which wetsuit you should buy. Many people assume that only expensive wetsuits are of high quality, but this is simply not the case.

An entry-level wetsuit will provide you with everything you need to get you started. As you advance in your watersport, you will understand what you require from your wetsuit over time. However, try not to skip ahead too much at the start as you may choose something not quite right for you and your experience in the water.

Hopefully, these six top tips will help you when you come to buy your first wetsuit soon. If you require more help, let us know at Wetsuit Centre! We have over a decade of experience in the online wetsuit industry and can help you choose the best wetsuit for you! The store will not work correctly in the case when cookies are disabled.

This website requires cookies to provide all of its features. By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more I Agree. Posted: March 12, Categories: Surfing News. Author: Ben Cooper. Buying Your First Wetsuit: Our Top Tips So, you have decided to take to the water for a new sport and now require the equipment needed, including a wetsuit. Determine When and Where You Will Be Using Your Wetsuit Once you know the type of wetsuit you will need, you will need to consider what thickness is most suitable for you.

Our infographic below offers a general guide for wetsuit thickness and water temperatures: Think about when and where you will be predominately wearing your wetsuit. Take Into Consideration UK Winters With the temperatures dropping hugely during this period, you should opt for buying a wetsuit with a or more thickness than you would require for the warmer months.

Summer Wetsuits However, if you will be using your wetsuit mainly during the warmer months and not venturing in the sea in the winter, a summer or shorty wetsuit will be a much more suitable option.

Ensure the Wetsuit Fits Correctly The number one rule of wetsuits is if a wetsuit doesn't fit correctly, it will be useless. Once you go in the water for the first time, the neoprene will loosen as it gets wet.