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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:
Sizing for Wetsuit Tops:
Sizing for Wetsuit Shorts:
Sizing for Boots:
Sizing for Gloves:
Need help figuring out your wetsuit 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!
I live in western Washington. Just starting kayaking. 62 y/o, 180lbs., 6′ tall, 32/32 pants size, 42 inch chest. Need help buying my first wetsuit.
Hey Russell,
Thanks for reaching out about this and that’s awesome that you’re starting kayaking! Please send an email to our customer service, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com, or give our service team a call at 866-906-7848 and they will help you find exactly what you’re looking for! Thank you!
I’m looking to add a second shorty (original is 2 mm and no stretch), I’m looking at 2.5 mm with stretch. I am on chemo maintenance and dexamethasone tends to shift excess weight from arms, legs and butt to waist and underarms. Kidney Dr. has me cancelling water loss pill so some fluid weight tends to stay in belly area. Hence shape is pear/apple! Height is 5.9 and chest size is 44+ The one you highlight has sizes jumping from 1xl to 2 xl but skips the xls size which would appear to best match my needs. I am willing to skip the sale price if there is another xls which would match my needs.
Hi George,
Thank you for asking! Based on your needs and chest sizing, I think that the 2.5mm HyperFlex Cyclone-2 would be your best bet. We even have the size XLS in stock! Here it is: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/XD625MB.html#.V1HQq-S1KFU.
If you are maybe looking for another suggestion or for more help on finding the best suit, please contact our customer service team. Email is service@wetsuitwearhouse.com or call at 866-906-7848. All the best with everything going on and hope you have a great weekend!
I have a 41″ chest, 35″ waist, I’m 71″ tall, I ocean swim on Long Island Ny and water gets as cold as 60 degrees when I swim, what full suit do you recommend?
Hi Carson,
Thank you for reaching out and asking! Based on what you said, we have a lot of fullsuit options for you and two different routes you could take. IF the suit will be for multiple sports, I would recommend a 3/2mm fullsuit and because of your chest, waist and height, I would recommend looking at size LS. Remember that fullsuits are supposed to fit tight and like a second skin. There are also a lot of other personal factors that need to be included such as price range and zipper type. Here is a full list general use 3/2mm men’s fullsuits that we have in stock in a size LS for you to choose from: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/search.html#/?_=1&filter.gender=Men%27s&page=1&filter.suit_type=Fullsuits&filter.sizes=LS&filter.thickness=3%2F2mm
If this suit is ONLY going to be used for swimming, you should consider a triathlon wetsuit. Triathlon wetsuits are standard 5/3mm thickness, and for your water temps, you could either go with a full sleeve or sleeveless. Your triathlon wetsuit size should be large. https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-triathlon-wetsuits.html#/?_=1&filter.suit_type=Fullsuits&filter.suit_type=Long%20Johns&page=1
Hope that helps! And if you have any more questions, please reach out to our customer service via email or phone. Email is service@wetsuitwearhouse.com and phone is 866-906-7848.
Thank you!
What size would 5’9″ height and 37/38″ chest get for a 4/3 fullsuit used for surfing?
thanks
Hey Paul,
Based on your measurements and needs, you could get away with either a size MS or a Medium. Here’s a link to all of our 4/3mm Men’s surfing wetsuits that are available in those two sizes: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/search.html#/?_=1&filter.gender=Men%27s&page=1&filter.sports_combined=Surf&filter.thickness=4%2F3mm&filter.sizes=MS
Hope that helps, and if you are still unsure or have any questions, please reach out to our customer service team. Their email is service@wetsuitwearhouse.com or call at 866-906-7848.
I’m 6’9″, 230 lbs — any wetsuit out there that’s going to fit me? Thanks!
Hey Jeff,
Thanks for asking! I think you’ll have the most success with a custom wetsuit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/custom-wetsuits.html. The closet thing we have in stock to meet your height would be an XCEL suit but it only goes up to 6’6″ and due to your weight, that suit might not fit you the best. Feel free to contact our customer service team and they can assist you – 866-906-7848 or service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thanks!
Thanks for the quick delivery. However, this suit was just to small in the bust, so I am returning. (neosport shorty spring suit, 2mm) , I am 5’1″ and have a 42 top and size 12 bottom/short waisted. I need a spring 1mm suit for Arizona swimming/aerobics in winter in outdoor pool. 2mm I feel will be to thick for what I need. Any suggestions appreciated…so I can re-order something that will work.
Hey Tammi,
Sorry that the suit ended up being on the smaller side. Unfortunately we do not have anything that’s 1mm thick that will provide you with the best fit right now. Based on your measurements and your needs, we recommend a front zip vest and a pair of shorts. The vest is 2mm thick, but your arms have that free range of motion while keeping your core warm and the shorts will add some additional warmth/coverage. We suggest this vest in a size 14: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX125WF.html#.V9_wqjVWX2s and these shorts: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX210UN.html#.V9_ySjVWX2s. Please feel free to reach out to our customer service as they can better help you find just what you need, our phone is 866-906-7848 and our email is service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thank you!
Got a customer I’m trying to fit with a wetsuit. He needs a 3mm full suit. Measurements are chest: 55, waist: 58, hips: 54 and inseam: 34. He’s 74″ tall, weight 380. Do you have a suit that will fit, and if so, could you provide a price?
Hi Zane! I would check out this model from NeoSport in a size 6XL https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX832MB.html#.V_ZmaI8rLcs
If no luck with that fit, looking into a custom suit would likely be your best option! You can find more details on custom suits here https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/custom-wetsuits.html
Good luck, and thanks for reaching out!
Want to get a little shoulder and arm strength (rotator cuff)tear.some respiratory problems no submerging. 52y/o male 52 chest Where can I find a top?
Hi Bill,
Based on what you’re looking for and your measurement, we suggest this men’s NeoSport Xspan vest (for full range of arm motion) in a size 6XL – https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX125MF.html#.WAd4f8lWX2s Or, if you want more coverage, this front zip NeoSport jacket in a size 4XL – https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX130MF.html#.WAd4rclWX2s
If you have any more questions or need more help, please reach out to our customer service team either via email or phone. Our email is service@wetsuitwearhouse.com and phone is 866-906-7848. Thank you!
Where do I find a size chart?
Hi Jean,
Thanks for asking! You can find size charts when you click on an actual product and scroll down to the description of the product and click the Size Chart tab. Since all of the brands we offer have different size charts, we do not have a universal size chart to go off of. If you need any help with sizing or how to choose a size, feel free to contact our customer service either via email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or phone, 866-906-7848. Thank you!
I’m interested in the Women’s Rip Curl G-BOMB Cap Sleeve Springsuit. My measures are 5’3″ height / 134 lbs/ 37″ chest (bust) / 31″ waist What is the correct size for me? Thanks
Hi Janete,
Based on your measurements, you should go with a size 12. Unfortunately we do not have a size 12 in the G-Bomb Cap Sleeve Springsuit. We are currently checking with our brand rep to see if we will be getting any size 12’s in soon and we will let you know! Thank you!
Water temp 55-60 degrees .lake Washington winter swimming for 15-20 minutes-dock to buoy and return age 82 Want full suit thickness????? 170 lbs with protruding belly , thin legs and no butt(smile) 5-10 waist 39 chest42
Hey Art,
Thanks for asking. Based on your needs, I recommend the 5mm NeoSport 2-piece John & Jacket Combo found here: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/666-S750MF01.html#.WBnysslWX2s. And as far as size goes, I recommend getting a size Large. Hope that helps and feel free to email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or call us at 866-706-7848. Thank you!
ARE THE KIDS SHOES SIZES IN UK OR USA?
US sizes.
I surf in San Diego, 68 years old female, broke my neck and back. Was 5’9″ but since my accident now 5’6″ and about 138 poundage. Looking at 4/3mm Women’s Billabong SYNERGY Full Wetsuit $159.95 size 10. You think that would be a good choice…can get down to 57 in the winter. It is easier to keep my spine warmer than cooler. Thanks for your advise. Ingrid
Hi Ingrid,
You could probably order a size 10, but in order for us to tell you with certainty to get that size we will need your bust measurement. You can either let me know here in the comments or you can reach out to our awesome customer service team and they will be able to help you get just what you need. Feel free to either call at 866-906-7848 or email at service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thank you!
Do you have a size chart? I can’t find it.
Hi Rebecca,
You can find size charts when you click on an actual product and scroll down to the description of the product and click the Size Chart tab. Since all of the brands we offer have different size charts, we do not have a universal size chart to go off of. If you need any help with sizing or how to choose a size, feel free to contact our customer service either via email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or phone, 866-906-7848. Thanks!
Hi. I’m looking to buy my first wetsuit. I’ll be using it on the southern coast of South Korea, with winter water temperatures in the low to mid 50’s F. Mainly for cleaning boat bottoms plus recreational use, so a couple of hours at a time in the water.
I’m 6’6, 200-210 lbs 44″ chest 38-40″ waist depending on time of year 36″inseam.
The Henderson 7mm Thermoprene suit in XLT appears to be the closest fit for both size and use… but will my sometimes slighty larger waist measurement be a serious issue?
Hi Jeremy,
Thanks for asking! The 7mm Henderson Thermoprene suit is a perfect suit for what you need. It will be durable for cleaning and it also has a good bit of stretch for some recreational use. The XLT should do it and you don’t have to worry about your waist measurement. Chest measurement is almost always more important than the waist so you should be all good to go! Thank you again and have a great week.
Hi! So I’m looking at a Roxy springsuit 2mm arm and the bottom is like shorts. I’m 5’7 about 165lbs, I wear a 38C in my bra and a size 9/10 in juniors size pants. Do you think the size 14 would work for me? The suit I’m looking at is a zip front. Thanks In advance
Hi Dezzy,
Thanks for asking! Based on the suit you are looking at and your measurements, I would suggest first trying the size 12 and not the 14. If you need any additional help, please feel free to contact our customer service team either via phone, 866-906-7848, or email, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thank you!
Hi! I am looking to purchase a men’s shorty wet suit. I am 69, a master swimmer and have been a master swimmer for about 25 years. I am 6 ft, 190 lbs, 45-inch chest, 35-inch waist. I am going to be swimming in a small pond continually fed by a stream. The pond is the result of a man-made dam with a continuously running spillway so the water never warms up. I would guess the water temp is in the high 50’s. I have swim in this pond twice, both I times I swam a number of traverse, lasted about 20-30 minutes but it was COLD and I barely got used to the water! I want to stay in longer and get a real workout. My wife and I agree I should get a wet suit. I think a shorty will be enough. Also, we are budget limited to $50-$100’s. What do you recommend, including size, please. Cheers, Ken
Hi Ken,
Thanks for reaching out! A triathlon suit would be the best fit for what you need. This particular suit fits your budget and a size XL should work well: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/666-S553.html
If you really want a shorty, which would not be as good for swimming (doesn’t have the smooth skin exterior to glide through the water or the buoyancy) and wouldn’t have as much stretch as the tri suit, you can check out these shorty springsuits: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-springsuit-wetsuits.html#/?_=1&filter.mat=100%25%20Stretch&page=1&filter.suit_type=Shorty%20Springsuits&filter.gender=Men%27s.
Hope that helps. Please feel free to reach out to our customer service team via live chat, email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com), or call 866-906-7848 for any additional help!
Hi looking for a ++size ladies suit. 165cm tall – 130kg uk size 24. Kayaking inner Hebrides in Scotland so v. Cold. Thanks roz
Hi Roz! Thanks for the question! Your chest/bust measurement is going to be the first aspect of the size-chart to consider. Then, height and weight to follow accordingly. I would recommend the women’s 3mm Henderson THERMOPRENE wetsuit, you can view it here! https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/A830WB.html#.WP9YT2krLcs
Hi Paige,
I am just under 5’9″ Weight 170 Chest 40-42 Waist-32-34
I am interested in O’Neal and Xcel and thickness 4/3 Please suggest the sizes that will fit me
Thanks
I am a 25 Year old Women. 5 Feet and 145 lbs and I need help finding a long sleeve long pants wetsuit size for me.
Hi Alyssa,
Thanks for reaching out. What water sport were you looking to use a wetsuit for? And if you need any assistance figuring out what you need, please feel free to contact our customer service team either via live chat, phone (866-906-7848), or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com). Thank you!
I am in San Diego looking to use a wetsuit primarily for snorkelling. I am 5’1″, 35″ chest, 117 pounds. What type and size wetsuit do you recommend?
Thanks, Amber
Hey Amber,
Depending on the water temps, we recommend just a general watersports wetsuit. If the temps are 75 degrees and up, you could get away with a shorty springsuit. Anything that dips below 70 degrees, you may consider a 3mm or 3/2mm fullsuit. Here’s a selection of short sleeve springsuits, long sleeve springsuits and full wetsuits: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/womens-wetsuits.html#/?_=1&filter.suit_type=Fullsuits&filter.suit_type=L%2FS%20Springsuits&filter.suit_type=Shorty%20Springsuits&page=1. If you have any questions or need more help, feel free to reach out to our customer service team either via live chat, phone (866-906-7848) or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com). Thank you!
What size should a 5’11” male weighing 320 with a 54 inch chest wear
Hi first wetsuit buyer here. I am looking for a springsuit for my swim instructor son (20y/o). He never worn wetsuit before, and it is a gift. We are looking at “2mm Men’s Body Glove Pro3 Shorty Springsuit”. If we go with his chest measurement, according to the Sizing Chart, it’ll be “M”. He is 5’8″, 140lb, 38inch chest, 29inch waist. He works out and very fit. But very skinny, and I am worried that water might come in from arms and thighs if we go “M”? Not to mention his middle will be baggy? Thank you!
Hi Kay,
The Medium should be OK for him based on his measurements. Feel free to go ahead with the Medium, and if it ends up being a little too large, it can always be exchanged for a Small. If you need any more assistance please contact our customer service team either via live chat, email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or by phone (866-906-7848). Thank you!
Hey Lauren I am looking to buy a new wetsuit but which one is better glue or stiched
Hey Douglas,
That depends on the water temperatures. Flatlock seams are great in warm water temps as they allow some water to seep in. Sealed seams (or, glued and blind-stitched) are only glued on the inside of the seam and work well in cool water temps since they prevent water from seeping in. Then there’s sealed and liquid taped seams which you’ll see in a lot of higher end suits and is meant to be worn in cold water temps so none of that cold water seeps through keeping you warmer, longer. This blog post also touches on the different types of wetsuit seams: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/blog/how-to-buy-a-wetsuit/.
If you need additional help, feel free to write back to me in the comments, or live chat us, call us (866-906-7848) or email us (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com). Thank you!
Hey. I need help picking a wetsuit i have a 3/2 right now but it got big on me & water keep gettin in around the ankle its m/s whats the next size i should get cause im consisting doin winter surfing this yea im 5’1 5’2 but i got wide shoulders can u help me i been looking to buy. A 5/4\3 but dont know what size i need
Hey! Check out a size small. Most size smalls are very close, or the same in length to a MS. Thanks!
Hello, I am 6’5” 180 pounds and am looking to buy a 4/3mm what’s the best suggested full size suit I should buy
Hi Curtis,
Were you looking for a general water sports fullsuit or something more specific? Also, what is your chest measurement? If you were looking for a suit for something like surfing, check out this one by O’Neill: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/2738.html in a size LT. But, also take note that you should look at your chest measurement before you decide. If you need more assistance, please feel free to reach out to us either via phone (866-906-7848), email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com), or even live chat. Thank you!
I am trying to figure out what’s the best size for me. I am 5’1″, 200 lbs ( give or take due to swelling around joints from arthritis). chest measures 44.5″, waist is 44″, hips 46″. What would be the best size. I need a suit for swimming and aerobic activity in pools ranging from 62-82 degrees. need front zip due to joint issues. Is a fullsuit better than the top/bottom options? thanks
Hi Sandi,
Based on your measurements and needs, I would highly recommend that you look into getting a custom wetsuit. If you’re swimming in the 60s, a 3mm front zip fullsuit would do well. And if you’re swimming in the high 70s, lower 80s, a top and bottom combination would be best. Here is a link to our custom wetsuits: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/custom-wetsuits.html. Feel free to contact our customer service team for additional help either via phone (866-906-7848), live chat, or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com). Thank you!
Hi I am looking for a 5/4 wetsuit for winter surfing. my measurements don’t line up with a specific size. 6′ 180lb 151/2 neck . 38 chest 40 hip and… ugh 35″ waist.. I used to wear MT but fear my old 32″ waist has grown while nothing else has.
Hi John,
Thanks for reaching out about this. You could definitely try a size Large in a 5/4mm full wetsuit for winter surfing. Here’s our selection of 5/4 suits with a size Large in stock: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-fullsuits-5.html#/?_=1&filter.suit_type=null&page=1&filter.thickness=5%2F4mm&filter.sizes=L. Feel free to contact our customer service team if you need additional help either via live chat, phone (866-906-7848) or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com). Thank you!
so is weight more important to consider than height?
Hi Skylar,
Actually, chest and height are the most important measurements to consider when figuring out what size wetsuit to order. Go off of those first and then your weight. Thank you!
Hello, I’m a 30 year old woman who is 5’1″, 163lbs, wear a 40D/DD bra, and am usually a size 16 or 18. I’m looking for a wetsuit to wear in warm waters around Bimini. Mostly just for snorkeling. Is there anything that would fit me?
Hey Jordan,
Try this suit in a 14S. It should work well for your water temps and fit pretty well! https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/AP830WB.html. Thank you!
I am looking a 2mm Women’s Body Glove PRO 3 Dive Shorty Springsuit PRODUCT CODE: 13173W for my dougther. She is 110 lbs and 5.25″. The 5/6 its fine ?
Hi Ignacio,
That should work for your daughter. What is her chest measurement? That will also determine if this shorty will fit. Please feel free to contact our customer service team either via phone (866-906-7848) or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com). Thank you!
Hello! I am looking to purchase a plus size wetsuit for kayaking. I am female, 5′ 1/2” in height, and I weigh 162 lbs. My bust size is 43″ (42D bra size), my waist size is 38″, and my hips are 45″. So I am short and stout! The lake where I plan to kayak is glacier fed and quite cold. In summer it is about 70 degrees F, but that is the warmest that it gets. I am thinking that the thickness should be 4-5mm…? Do you have a wetsuit that will fit me? Thanks in advance! hd.
Hi Heather,
For kayaking, I would really recommend separates.You should be staying mostly dry, so ambient temperature will play a lot into what type of wetsuit you should wear. Check out this link here, I filtereted it down to sizes that should work for you.
https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/womens-wetsuit-tops-bottoms.html#/?_=1&filter.suit_type=L%2FS%20Tops&filter.suit_type=Pants&page=1&filter.sizes=16&filter.sizes=2XL&filter.sizes=3XL&filter.sizes=XL&filter.sizes=18
If you need more help, please don’t hesitate to contact customer service, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com or (866) 906-7848.
Hi, I’m looking to buy my first wet suit. I’m 5’3, 170 lbs, and a 36DD. I’ve been looking at 5mm and 3mm suits, preferably a 5mm. Would you so kind as to help me out? And point me to a suit you suggest for my size? Thanks
Hi Kat,
Yes, we would love to help! First, what do you plan on using the wetsuit for? Surfing? Dive? Paddle? Once we know what water sport you are looking to use the wetsuit for, we can help guide you in the right direction. Or, feel free to contact our customer service team either through live chat, email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or call 866-906-7848. Thank you!
Thanks for responding, I’ll be using it for scuba divining
Cool! Since this is for SCUBA diving, check out this 5mm Women’s Henderson Fullsuit in a size 12S – https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/A850WB.html. If you need additional help, please feel free to reach out to our customer service team. Thank you!
Hi. I am looking for a flexible warmer wetsuit for swimming in 60-70 temps. I am 5’4” Measurments 40 34 40. Thank you so much!
Hey Peggy,
Check out a triathlon suit. They are the best types of suits for swimming and will do well for your water temps. A long jane will do the job unless you absolutely hate the cold. In that case, grab a fullsuit.
https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=SEARCH#filter:suit_type:Long$2520Johns/filter:sports_combined:Triathlon/filter:suit_type:Fullsuits
If you need additional help, feel free to contact our customer service team either via live chat, phone (866-906-7848) or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com). Thank you!
I am in need of a suit for 68-72 degree water. My dimensions are a bit unusual, 5’10” 122 lbs chest 34, waist 28. What do you recommend?
A 3/2mm sealed should do the job. Check out these options here in size ST (small tall): https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-fullsuits-32.html#filter:sizes:ST/filter:seam:Sealed$2520$2526$2520Taped/filter:seam:Sealed. Let us know if you need additional help. Thank you!
Hi Kat – This will be my first wetsuit. I need it for a mountain lake that we will be riding wave runners on. Just need something to keep the chill off in early summer and late fall when going on a long ride. I’m 5’7 weigh 230 lbs, and have a 47″ chest, 40″ waist. What thickness and size would you recommend? Also, if I buy two sizes – to decide fit, can I return one of them? Thanks in advance for your help. Joe
Hi Joe,
I would recommend a top and bottom, as long as the air temps are warm! Separates will be easy to shed if you get too warm, since you should have fairly little submersion. Check out sizes 2XL and 3XL, depending on brand: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-wetsuit-tops-bottoms.html#filter:sizes:2XL/filter:sizes:3XL
Yes, you can buy multiple sizes and return whatever you don’t want to keep. Check out our full return policy here: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/returns-exchanges.html. Thank you!
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