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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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Hi I’m new to sea swimming here in northern Ireland and looking for my first wetsuit (lots of talk of jellyfish!) I’m 5’5. 157 pounds, chest 44″, waist 37″. Normal UK dress size between a 12 and 14. Unsure to go bigger with a 14 or down for 12. Looking at Gul wetsuits. Any advice appreciated.
Hi Rebecca! What are the water temps like around this time of year? I am not familiar with Gul wetsuits, but specifically for open water swimming, I would definitely recommend browsing our selection of triathlon wetsuits here. These are specifically designed for your ultimate comfort, warmth, and range of motion when swimming. If you need professional assistance in finding a great wetsuit, also feel free to reach out to our customer service team either via email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or call 866-906-7848. Hope this helps!
Hello, I have trouble buying anything off-the-rack. I am 5’7”, 42” chest, 34” waist and 175lb. Any size and / or brand suggestions that would fit? Thanks.
Hey Bill! You’ll likely want to shop for either an MS (medium short) or LS (large short) wetsuit size depending on the brand. What thickness/style of wetsuit were you trying to shop for so we can better advise you on a suit that could work for you? I recommend browsing our selection of men’s wetsuits here and selecting MS and LS in the size filter on the lefthand side of the page. That way, you can see wetsuits we have in stock in those sizes and reference the product-specific size chart against your measurements to find a great fit! If you need additional assistance in finding your perfect wetsuit, you can also reach out to our awesome customer service team either via email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or call 866-906-7848. Cheers!
Hi there, I am looking for a relatively inexpensive full-body wetsuit for swimming and surfing in New England during the summer (cool waters). I am 6’3, 215ish lbs, 36 waist, and about a 40-42″ chest. Thinking XL or XLT but the XLT’s are hard to come by.
Hi Andrew! You’re on the right track with sizing. Per your chest measurements (the most important factor in choosing a wetsuit size for comfort!) an XL wetsuit should work for you in several different affordable options. You can check out our selection of men’s fullsuits here and select your preferred sizes in the left-hand filter bar, which makes finding available XLs and XLTs super easy. That way you can browse wetsuits for your budget and style. If you need additional assistance in finding a great suit for you, you can also reach out to our awesome customer service team either via email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or call 866-906-7848. Cheers!