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How to Choose a Wetsuit Size
Lauren Belt January 28th, 2016 Posted In: How-To
Selecting the correct wetsuit size can be tough, especially for first time wetsuit buyers. Wetsuits fit tighter than clothing, and the wetsuit size will usually be one or two sizes bigger than clothing. Even a perfect fitting wetsuit will be a bit tough to get on and off; it has to be that way, since wetsuits work by trapping water between the suit and skin, creating an insulating layer of water warmed by body heat.
Use these following tips to make sure you buy the right wetsuit size:
Selecting a wetsuit size based on weight alone is unreliable. We highly recommend using body measurements whenever possible.
Sizing for Full Wetsuits and Springsuits:
- Height and chest are the most important measurements.
- Measure your chest at the widest point, with the tape gently snug.
- Regarding length, it’s generally OK if the suit is a little on the long side. It’s generally NOT OK if the suit is too short. It will likely be uncomfortable in the crotch and neck.
- If in between two sizes, take the larger size.
Sizing for Wetsuit Tops:
- The chest measurement is most important.
- Height is less important for tops, so as long as it’s close the fit should work.
Sizing for Wetsuit Shorts:
- Waist measurement is most important.
- Height is irrelevant for short sizing.
Sizing for Boots:
- Order your regular shoe size. If you are a half size, round DOWN to the nearest whole size.
- Wetsuit boots are not made in half sizes. Neoprene (wetsuit material) is stretchy and will stretch a half size.
- Wetsuit boots should fit slightly tighter than regular shoes.
Sizing for Gloves:
- Measure around your palm.
- If in between sizes, round down to the smaller size.
Need help figuring out your size? Call (866-906-7848), E-mail (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com), or chat with one of our wetsuit experts for sizing advice. We’re happy to help!
Lauren Belt
Merchandiser at Wetsuit Wearhouse
Lauren (LoLo) has been picking out the latest and greatest wetsuits and being the social media queen for Wetsuit Wearhouse since 2014. She learned to surf for the first time ever in Costa Rica but she gravitates more towards SUP. When she's not scouring the web for travel deals, you can find her either hiking, running, practicing yoga, studying holistic nutrition or reading a good book outside on a beautiful day.
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Need recommendation-size. Live in Arizona used for pool exercise size only so that is why looking at cheaper wetsuit. Looking at Womens Hevto guardian I goddess 2nd choice hevto X women. Built like a man straight up and down no curves. Height 5.5. Weight 203. Bust 46′, Waist 45′, Hips 48′. Do not understand Hevto sizing difference between 3XXL and XXL1…….help
How do I measure the head and neck size for a wet suit hood?
Hey Stefan,
Simply take a measuring band and wrap it around the circumference of your skill for the head measurement and then around the circumference of your neck for that measurement. Thank you!
I’m a 5’5″ tall male with a 39″ chest and a 36″ waist. What’s the best size for me, please? Also, will a 2mm thickness in a full body suit provide sufficient warmth for a 62-degree swimming pool? I usually go about 30 minutes. Thanks!
Hey Glen,
Based off of those water temps and information, I’d recommend this wetsuit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/HCAOSM6A.html. As far as a size on this, can you tell me what your weight is?
Thank you!
I’m a size 36 waist.
What size wetsuit pants should I buy?
Hi there,
Was there a particular brand or pair of wetsuit pants you were looking at to buy?
Thanks!
Q: measured across chest and it is 45 in.but I’m only 5’6 female with large chest and the measurements don’t seem to fit even men’s large. suggestions?
Hi CJ,
What type of wetsuit were you looking to order (full wetsuit, shorty, 3/2mm, 4/3mm, etc.)? And for what watersport? Once I know that I can help guide you to what you need!
Hi. I need a short sleeve/leg wet suit to swim in during the winter months here in Spain.
My sizes as follows:-
40” chest
34” waist
5’5” height
Please advise, I don’t want it so tight that it’s a lot of struggle to get on.
Thanks.
Hi Tony,
I’d recommend this springsuit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/AKMS129.html in a size Large. Let us know if you need additional help!
Hi Lauren. I am looking to buy a wetsuit for the first time for open water swimming through the winter. I am a 39 in chest but only 5’2” tall. All the ones I’ve looked at for my chest measurement seem way too long. Will this be a problem?
Hi Linda,
Do you need a full wetsuit or a long jane? I totally understand what you mean about worrying if a suit will be too long (I’m 5’3″ so I get it), but that shouldn’t be a problem at all. Let me know some more information when you get a chance and I’m happy to help you figure out what to get!
Lauren
looking for best fit for a full body wet suit for 5’4″ male weighing 180 lb, 38″ waist with a barrel chest. What would you recommend for the best and easiest fit.?
Hey there!
What water temperatures and sport do you need the wetsuit for? Also, what is the chest measurement in inches?
Thanks!