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Lauren Belt January 27th, 2016 Posted In: How-To Tags: Kayak, SCUBA, SUP, Surfing, Triathlon
Want to know how to buy a wetsuit? We’ve put together a wetsuit guide in order to make wetsuit buying a little less overwhelming!
First off, you’ll see a thickness at the beginning of a product (i.e. 3/2mm or 5/4/3mm). Wetsuit thickness is described in millimeters (mm) and the number is the thickness of the wetsuit material called neoprene.
The thicker the wetsuit, the more insulation it provides. However as the thickness increases, the heavier and more restrictive the wetsuit becomes. Hence, a 3/2mm wetsuit will give you much more range and flexibility compared to a 5/4/3mm wetsuit.
Every wetsuit also features a seam construction. This includes: Flatlock, Sealed, Sealed & Taped, and even Stitchless.
Flatlock:
Flatlock seams are great for warm water temps (65°F & up) as they do allow a thin layer of water to enter the wetsuit. The interior and exterior seams look like railroad tracks, but the interior is flat and comfortable against the skin.
Sealed (Glued & Blindstitched):
Sealed seams are great for cold water temps (55°F & up)! The exterior seam looks similar to flatlock but is narrower in width and the interior seam often has a glue line along the seam. Very little water will seep through these seams.
Sealed & Liquid Taped (Glued Blindstitched & Taped):
Sealed & Taped seams are great for very cold water temps (55°F & below). These seams have the same construction as sealed seams but there’s taping along either the interior seam or exterior seam (or sometimes on both sides.) This taping reinforces seams and prevents water from seeping through.
Stitchless:
Stitchless seams are featured in some super high-end wetsuits. The panels of neoprene are fused and glued together instead of the neoprene panels being pierced. This creates a lighter, flexible, and more durable seam.
With all of this in mind, here’s handy wetsuit guide to ease the guessing of what wetsuit you need:
The grade (or type) of neoprene used for a wetsuit also affects the feel and performance. Most suits today are made of super stretch neoprene for a better fit and flexibility.
Neoprene types can be broken down into Standard, Good, Great, and Superior.
Standard is your least stretchy type of neoprene but is still durable and affordable. These suits are great for general water and rental use as well as industrial applications.
Good has more flexibility than standard and the super stretch neoprene is in flex areas like the shoulders and underarms. These suits are great for entry-level performance water sports and for wetsuit users who don’t want to break the bank!
Great has super stretch neoprene throughout the entire suit thus creating a better fit and performance. You can wear these suits a couple of times a week or more!
Superior suits are made of the highest grade of super stretch neoprene throughout the entire suit and have a higher price range. Great for serious water sport enthusiasts and pros!
Then there’s the inner lining of a wetsuit. This can increase the insulation as well as the cost of a wetsuit. Most wetsuits now use poly fleece as the lining. The poly fleece is a microfiber that helps wick water away from your skin and effectively keeps you drier faster.
Still unsure or feel overwhelmed on how to buy a wetsuit? We get it and that’s why we’re here for you! Call us at 866-906-7848, email us at service@wetsuitwearhouse.com, or hit us up on live chat!
I want to keep my butt dry kayaking in Oregon lakes in my leaky snap together kayak. Would shorts in a 3/2 thickness, good neoprene keep me dry and warmer?
Hey Lucy,
Thanks for asking! Unfortunately, you will still get wet in a wetsuit. Wetsuits do a good job at maintaining warmth so if you’re looking to stay warm, maybe look into thick shorts or a long jane/jacket combo. Again, you will not stay dry with this toption.
A drysuit or dry tops/bottoms will be the only option to keep you completely dry while kayaking. And we currently offer two drysuit options but they are full body suits, not shorts. Feel free to contact our customer service and they can answer any more questions – email is service@wetsuitwearhouse.com or call 866-906-7848. Thanks and have a great one!
Looking for a wetsuit that fits my needs without breaking the bank. I have an indoor 30 k gallon lap pool that is difficult to use doing laps in early spring when the pool has just opened after a seasonal winterization. The water temp is around 65° – 70° and am considering using a wetsuit to take the “chill” off before I begin swimming laps. Looking for a comfortable wetsuit that would provide both flexibility and comfort from the cold and no skin rash after a few morning daily workouts. Thank you for any suggestions. Sincerely, TBESC. (Trying to Break the Early Spring Chill).
Hey there!
It sounds like the best option for what you’re looking for is a long john triathlon suit. These suits are great for swimming and with those water temps, a long john will provide the right amount of coverage and warmth without constricting any movement. Check out our selection of those suits here: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/SEARCH.html#/?_=1&page=1&filter.sports_combined=Triathlon&filter.suit_type=Long%20Johns
And if you have any more questions or are still unsure of what you need to get, feel free to reach out to our customer service team! Their email is service@wetsuitwearhouse.com and the phone number is 866-906-7848. Thank you!
Hey, Is there a suit I can use for swim in in the cold ocean and also use it for kayak?
Kind regards
Hey Caio,
Unfortunately, that is going to be tough for two main reasons: 1) The thickness you need for swimming will need to be heavier than a wetsuit for kayaking for the same water temp. That’s because while swimming you are constantly exposed and in the water. With kayaking, it’s mostly splash.
2) Suits for swimming have a smooth rubber coating, which can be delicate for anything other than swimming.
There are some more reasons why it isn’t ideal to use one suit for both, but those are the main two. Buy the suit for what you’re doing most.
Hope that helps and thanks for asking!
Hi there, We are going snorkeling in the Keys next March and are a little concerned about the 65F water temps especially for the kiddos. What would you recommend considering price,functionality and ease of use for our 7 and 8 year old guys. These suits probably won’t get a ton of use. Can you recommend some brands and features to look for. We are new to wetsuits. Thanks
Hey Andy,
Thanks for asking! Due to those water temps, they could get away with a shorty springsuit. And because they won’t be using these suits a ton, we recommend the 2mm HyperFlex ACCESS springsuit which you can find here: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/777-XA620CB-44.html#.V7SRJjVWXXg. This is a basic suit with an entry level price point, so not a ton of stretch but it will do just fine in the Keys in those temps! Feel free to contact customer service via phone (866-906-7848) or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) if you need additional information or more help!
Thank you!
I am spending a week in March snorkling and swimming with whales 99 miles off the coast of the Domincan Republic. The temp of the water is 70 degrees. A full wetsuit is recommended. I am about 5’3″, female, about 145lbs, and 62 yrs old. What type of wetsuit would you suggest.
Hi Terry,
Based on your height and weight, you should look into a Short size. Take a look at this Henderson Thermoprene fullsuit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/A830WB.html#.V8nQPjVWXXg. This suit is great for those water temps and it has a wide range of sizes including 6S and 8S which is where you might fall into. Feel free to contact customer service either via phone (866-906-7848) or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) with some more measurements and they will help you find just the suit you need for your awesome trip in the Dominican!
Looking for a full body wetsuit (possibly with hood as well) to swim laps in our 40K gallon pool. Swimming laps all summer yet now the water is too cold to enjoy. A friend suggested getting a wetsuit but I don’t have a clue as what would serve my purpose best. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Hey Susan,
Thanks for asking! For swimming or swimming laps, a triathlon suit would be best. Here is a link to our selection of full triathon wetsuits which will work well in cold water as well as socks, caps and gloves:https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/search.html#/?_=1&filter.sports_combined=Triathlon&page=1&filter.suit_type=Fullsuits&filter.suit_type=Boots&filter.suit_type=Hoods&filter.suit_type=Gloves. Please feel free to reach out to our customer service team either via phone, 866-906-7848 or email, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com if you need any additional help!
Hey Lauren,
I’m looking for a wetsuit to keep me warm during an obstacle course race where there will be water obstacles and running through the night at temps of about 40 degrees. I need good mobility throughout to be able to complete all of the obstacles but, since it will be so cold overnight, I was thinking about a thicker suit. What would you suggest?
Hi John,
Thanks for reaching out! Based on what you said, I highly recommend you take a look at our separates for layering. That allows for temperature regulation as well as comfort and performance for you. The zippers of these layers will also allow you to unzip if needed and shed any layers. These separates are both 3mm thick, but when worn together you would have 6mm of warmth and thickness where they overlap. https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX535MF.html#.V_fFAclWX2s and https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX130MF.html#.V_fE-8lWX2s are great options. If you have any more questions or need more assistance, please feel free to contact our customer service either via phone, 866-906-7848 or email, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thanks and good luck at your OCR!
Best, Lauren
Hi Lauren, I live in RI and I am going to be digging quahogs in the spring and need a suit to keep me warm. Most of the time I will only be in 3 to 4 feet of water but the water is cold as well as the air. I want something flexible and preferably 2 piece so when I get warm I can take the jacket off. What suggestions do you have for me. Thank You Linda
Hi Linda,
Thanks for asking! Based on your information, check out the NeoSport janes and jackets. They will give you the flexibility to wear the pieces together or separately. They will also be very durable and hold up to years of use. They won’t be the stretchiest pieces, however. Two piece suits are generally made for diving or industrial uses, where durability is important. If you want a lot of stretch, consider a one piece suit. Here is our NeoSport selection: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/neosport-premium-neoprene-wetsuits.html#/?_=1&filter.gender=Women%27s&page=1&filter.suit_type=Fullsuits&filter.suit_type=L%2FS%20Springsuits&filter.suit_type=L%2FS%20Tops&filter.suit_type=Long%20Johns&filter.suit_type=SCUBA%20Combos&filter.suit_type=Shorty%20Springsuits&filter.suit_type=Vests
And if you need more help, please feel free to contact our customer service either via phone or email. Our email is service@wetsuitwearhouse.com and our number is 866-906-7848. Thank you!
Hi Lauren, I’m 5’3″, 113 pounds, 34B Bust, wide in the waist (30″), no hips. I need a wetsuit which will keep me warm in an indoor swimming pool in Washington State (they leave the windows open a bit.) I’ll be doing laps, but I’m a slow swimmer and get cold very easily. I tried a Henderson shorty in a size 6 without getting into the water but it choked m. So then I got a Billabong Synergy Springsuit in an 8 and it was too big and my arms were cold – I was fine on the bottom, but I was wearing a Diveskin made of nylon and spandex so I’m not sure if that made me colder or helped. Also, should I wear a bathing suit underneath the wetsuit? Any suggestions? I will pay any money to get a suit that fits. properly and keeps me warm. I d like to swim for more than an hour. THANKS!
Hi Sherrie,
Thanks for asking! There are a few options that you could do in this situation. 1) You could do a vest and short combination. I know you said your arms were cold from the shorty, but the vest will keep your core warm while providing you with a great range of motion with your arms. And shorts will provide you with the right amount of warmth and coverage as well. Here is what we recommend: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX125WF.html#.WBtu58lWX2s in a size 8 and https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX210UN.html#.WBtvPclWX2s in a small.
If you don’t want to do a vest/short combo, we recommend either the 2.5mm Women’s HyperFlex Cyclone shorty in a size 6: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/XD625WB.html#.WBtv1slWX2s OR the 2mm Roxy Syncro shorty springsuit also in a size 6: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/ARJW503001.html#.WBtwEclWX2s.
Hope that helps and feel free to contact our customer service team either via phone, 866-906-7848 or email, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thanks again Sherrie!
I need to buy two wet suits for a job. We are removing an submerged jetty and have to be in water for long periods. Water is around 55 to 60. More than one person may have to wear the suit. There is no planned use after. Looking for sometime inexpensive but durable. Kind of like rental suit.Thanks for any advice.
Hi Roy,
We recommend this 5mm Men’s NeoSport John and Jacket combo: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/WATERMAN5.html#.WByru8lWX2s. It’s an affordable and durable option for what you need and are looking for! If you need any more assistance, please feel free to reach out to our customer service team either via phone, 866-906-7848, or email, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thanks!
I am going to the Galapagos Islands in February and want to get a full body wetsuit for snorkeling. The water temps should be 70 and higher. I get cold easily and want to enjoy the experience. I am 5’6″ and 140lbs. Do you have a recommendation for a wetsuit?
Hi Lori,
Thanks for asking! Based on what you wrote, we suggest the 3/2mm Women’s XSPAN Fullsuit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX832WB.html#.WFGQ831WUV0. As far as sizing goes, you’ll want to go off of your chest measurement first for the best possible fit. If you have any more questions or need assistance with sizing, please feel free to contact our customer service team either via phone (866-906-7848) or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com). Thanks again!
If I elect to purchase a 2/3 full wetsuit for snorkeling in Central FL springs (about 70 degrees), will I need some sort of weight belt to counter the buoyancy of the suit?
Hi Richard,
Thanks for asking. As far as the weight belt goes, there is no way to tell. Everyone is different based on their body type and body composition. But it sounds like you might need something – an estimate would be a belt that’s 5% of your body weight for a 3mm wetsuit. Hope that helps and thanks again!
First of all: Great Article! I am new to outdoor winter lap swimming in an unheard saltwater pool in Tel Aviv. The pool water is changed in the 50 meter 10 lane pool every single night. The water temp is 72 in December and 74 in March. Been told that the water feels warmer than the air. Much higher in the summer of course.
I just want to check which type you would recommend. I see there are three seam choices. My major question is, why would anyone choose a suit that water can get in? Wouldn’t you just go for a suit that lets no water in? Is there a reason that water getting in might be preferable?
Also what do those numbers 3/2 and 5/8 mean?
Shoukd I get a two piece to accommodate the dramatic weather changes here?
Sorry for Ll the questions.
I am 5’2″ and about 120 lbs.
Thanks in advance
Hi Amy,
Thanks for asking and for reading the article! To answer your question about how wetsuits work, all wetsuits allow in some water. The water that enters the suit becomes trapped, and your body heats up that trapped water, becoming the insulating layer. Depending on the suit, some suits will be dryer than others, but they will all allow in some water.
The numbers refer to how thick the suit is in millimeters. A 3/2mm suit is made of panels of 3mm and 2mm neoprene.
The best type of suit for swimming, even laps, would be a triathlon suit. Given your water temps, you could go with either a full or a sleeveless depending on your tolerance for cold. Here are some triathlon suit options for what you need: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/search.html#/?_=1&filter.gender=Women%27s&page=1&filter.sports_combined=Triathlon&filter.suit_type=Fullsuits&filter.suit_type=Long%20Johns&filter.suit_type=Short%20Johns&filter.suit_type=Shorty%20Springsuits. If you need any assistance or have any more questions, please reach out to our customer service team either via phone, 866-906-7848, or email, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thank you!
I am 70 years old and have been trying to lose weight and get in shape. I was swimming 40-60 miutes a day in the summer. We have a pool in TX that I swam in all last summer and lost a bunch of weight and got into descent shape, but when fall came I just couldn’t take the cold water, below 75. I just checked and even though its 25 outside the pool is 46 degrees. The average in the winter is probably about 55 degrees. I am 6’1″ and 280 lbs, is there a wetsuit that would work for me, and yes the pool is chlorinated.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks
Hey Dee,
A full triathlon wetsuit are the best types of suits for swimming in. The chlorinated water will be hard on any wetsuit so it’s important to rinse it with fresh water after each use and to use a wetsuit shampoo like this one once a week: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/30120.html. Here is our selection of fullsuits for you to try: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/search.html#/?_=1&filter.sports_combined=Triathlon&page=1&filter.suit_type=Fullsuits. If you have any questions or need more help, please feel free to contact us via phone, 866-906-7848, or email, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thank you!
Hi Lauren, I need a wetsuit top that will keep my shoulders warmer (like a “shrug”). I don’t need so much protection in the torso as I am working out in an indoor pool and use a flotation belt that keeps my torso warm enough. I need it easy on/off with a zippered front. Thank you for any help in solving my problem.
Hi Janet,
Thanks for asking! Unfortunately we don’t really have what you’re asking for as far as no protection in the torso. If you want something to keep your shoulders warm, we recommend a front zip jacket, but these jackets also provide protection in the torso: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/womens-neoprene-tops.html#/?_=1&filter.zipper_type=Front%20Zip&page=1. Hope that helps and have a great one!
Thanks Lauren for such a quick response. Actually I would like protection in the torso as long as the shoulders have equal protection. I like the #4008 1mm Women’s O’Neill BAHIA Front Zip wetsuit jacket. I am 40inches in the bust, 142 lbs. and 5 ft. 5 in. tall and short waisted. Would a size 16 be best even though it will be too long? Wish you had petites (wishful thinking). I believe that I would like to order this top but you do not show size 16 available now. when will you have size 16? Thanks again
Hey Janet,
Unfortunately, O’Neill does not make that jacket in a size 16 – it goes up to size 14, which, based on your measurements, I think you would be able to fit in but I’m sure as you saw, it is currently sold out. That color for O’Neill is also discontinued so we will be getting a newer color for that same jacket within the next month or so for spring 2017. We apologize for any inconvenience on this. If you need any more assistance on finding the right jacket, please feel free to contact our customer service team either via phone, 866-906-7848, or email, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thank you!
Hi Laurent, as you are helping so many others… Was wondering if there is something for both free-diving as well as open water swimming for relatively warm waters (I live in Hong Kong) so 70+ suits.
Thanks, Daniel
Hi Daniel,
Unfortunately, there is not something for free-diving and open water swimming. Triathlon suits (suits which are used for open water swimming) have buoyancy panels for swimming and are delicate. If you are primarily going to do free diving, buy a wetsuit for that and it will get you by in a pinch for open water swimming. But we do recommend getting two separate suits. If you need additional help, please feel free to contact our customer service team either live chat, email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or call, 866-906-7848. Thank you!
Hi Lauren, I moved to Tucson and want to swim in my unheated outdoor pool earlier in the spring if possible. The pool is deep and the water temp will be around 6O F. I would like a separate top and bottom combo is possible. I am 5’4″ and 100 lbs. Thank you kindly, Anne
Hi Anne,
Here is a link to our tops and bottoms: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/search.html#/?_=1&filter.gender=Women%27s&page=1&filter.suit_type=S%2FS%20Tops&filter.suit_type=L%2FS%20Tops&filter.suit_type=Pants&filter.suit_type=Shorts but based on those water temps, a top and a bottom might not be warm enough so you could even try a one piece fullsuit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/search.html#/?_=1&filter.gender=Women%27s&page=1&filter.suit_type=Fullsuits.
If you need more help, please feel free to contact our customer service team either via phone, 866-906-7848, or email, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com.
Thank you very much!
I need to get a wetsuit for swimming in Maine – water temperature around 58-60. I’d like short sleeves and short legs. Not sure about size! B 33″ waist 32″ hips 39″
Hi Elaine,
Thanks for asking! Based on your needs and what you’re looking for, we recommend this triathlon long jane: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/666-S553WB.html#.WNKo52e1uUk in a size 8. If you have any more questions or need additional help, please feel free to reach out to our customer service team either via phone, 866-906-7848, or email, service@wetsuitwearhouse.com.
Hi Lauren, I will be in Hawaii during June where the average water temp is 70. I will be surfing, paddle boarding, and snorkling. I get cold very easy especially when snorkling. I’m 5’3″ and weigh about 135. However, I’m extremly large busted (34F) with a small waist. I can’t wear a one piece swimsuit as if the top fits, the bottom is way to big. What would you suggest.
Hey Tammy,
Thanks for asking. Wetsuits stretch and you have to order by your bust measurement in inches (it’s best to measure yourself with whatever you plan on wearing underneath the wetsuit, so probably a swimsuit top). For those water temps, a shorty springsuit should be ok but if you want full abrasion and sun protection, you could wear a 3/2mm fullsuit. If you need additional help picking products and sizing, please contact our customer service team either via live chat, phone (866-906-7848), or email service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thank you!
Hi Lauren. I am looking for a wetsuit to try my hand at swimming events based in Miami during the summer season. The sea temperature is always really warm during that period like 80F+. I only really want the wetsuit so I will be faster – I understand the increased buoyancy will make me slightly faster. What do you think would be the best wetsuit for this? Thanks!
Hey Laurence,
I would definitely recommend a triathlon-specific wetsuit. We have short johns which would be perfect for the water temps you’ll be swimming in but we may not have your size. You could try a long john as well but that will have more insulation and warmth and may make you hotter while swimming in really warm waters. Here’s a link to those options: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-triathlon-wetsuits.html#/?_=1&filter.gender=Men%27s&page=1&filter.suit_type=Long%20Johns&filter.suit_type=Short%20Johns. If you need more assistance, please feel free to live chat us, call us at 866-906-7848, or email service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thank you!
Very confusing. I’m 67 years old. I swim a mile a day 6 days a week in Tucson Az. In the winter the water gets to be 70 degrees. I’m 5-6, 160 and broadshoulderd. My waiste is 36 Any ideas?
Hey Greg,
Depending on your tolerance for cold water, we recommend checking out a triathlon john like this one: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/666-S553.html#.WV5LCFGQyUk. The john requires a decent amount of effort to put on because it is one piece but it will keep you warm and the sleeveless style allows for a good range of motion in the arms. Or, you could look into trying out a layering piece like one of these tops: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/SEARCH.html?q=xspan#/?_=1&filter.gender=Men%27s&page=1&filter.suit_type=L%2FS%20Tops&filter.suit_type=S%2FS%20Tops. Again, just depends on how warm you want to be while swimming. If you have any more questions or need additional help, please 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!
Hi – my daughter is going to start college at UCSD in La Jolla this fall. She wants to pick up surfing and wants to get a wetsuit as part of learning to surf and just general playing in the water. She is about 5′ 9″ / 130 lbs – athletic. What would be a good entry level suit that can be used for this type of beginner situation? Thank you!
Hi David,
She will probably need a 4/3mm wetsuit, that thickness is good for those water temps. You can find our women’s selection here: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/search.html#/?_=1&filter.thickness=4%2F3mm&page=1&filter.gender=Women%27s. As far as choosing a size, her chest measurement is the most important thing to look at. So she needs to wrap a measuring tape around the widest part of her chest and based off of that measurement she will be able to look at our size charts in order to determine what size to get. Hope that helps. If you guys need more assistance, please feel free to contact our customer service team either via live chat, email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com), or call 866-906-7848. Thank you!
I need to get a wetsuit for someone for swimming in Maine – water temperature around 58-60. I’d like short sleeves and short legs. Not sure about size – Please advise B 441/2″ waist 43″ hips 48-1/2″
My son needs a wet suit for a triathlon in lake Huron for next weekend, September 10th. He is 5 9, 210 pounds with a 43 inch chest and a 39 inh waist, what size wet suit should he get? He is thinking about a full body suit.
Hi Teri,
Based on his measurements, this suit in size XL: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/666-S553.html. If you need additional help, please feel free to contact our customer service team either via live chat, email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com), or call 866-906-7848. Thank you!
I swim about 45 mins a day in an outdoor pool, water temps 72-77 degrees now through October and then again in early spring.. In water temps about 77 degrees, I do find myself getting cold after 30 mins without a wetsuit which is why I want to buy one.
I am 5’7”and 135 lbs. What type of suit would you recommend?
Hi Patty,
Based on those water temps and what you’re looking for, you could get a long sleeve wetsuit top as a layering piece for swimming: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/SX150WN.html. What is your chest measurement? We need that in order to help you determine what size to get. OR, if a long sleeve top won’t provide enough warmth, you could get away with a jane: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/S553WB.html. If you need help with sizing, please feel free to contact our customer service team either via live chat, phone (866-906-7848) or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com). Thank you!
Bust is 36”. I was also thinking about a spring suit. Your thoughts and sizing on the wetsuit top and a jan? Thanks.
Patty,
For the top as well as the jane, try a size 8 in both. If you were also interested in a springsuit, you could try this one in a size 10: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/S620WB.html. Hope that helps!
Love the site. Any recommendations for 5’9″, 200lb male looking to do paddle boarding and wading in Monterey, CA?
Thanks for visiting the site! Glad to have you. Consider a top and bottom. Separates are great for paddle as they give you a lot of flexibility both in terms of movement and weather conditions. Check out some options here: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-wetsuit-tops-bottoms.html
Make sure you measure your chest and use that to help select the size. But, probably look around the XL sizes.
Hi, Lauren,
I am 72-year old and and am retired in the far north of Thailand. Unlike its southern beach regions, we get cool weather up here and the water temps can run down to 70. I am a recreational swimmer and former serious triathlon competitor and do laps year-round in our home pool, which is unheated. I want to buy a two-piece top and bottom with long arms and long legs. My dimensions: 169 pounds, 67-in height, chest 40.5, waist 35. Can you please suggest a suitable outfit for me? I currently use a size L Hyperflex short-sleeved top 1.5-mm neoprene which is not giving me enough insulation in the coldest of our winter, plus my Hyperflex fleece shorts, size M are way too tight. I’d like to shift to longer bottoms that have neoprene as well. Please confirm that when shipping to Thailand, you only use USPS and will not ship via FedEx, UPS or DHL, as these shippers charge shockingly high additional fees and almost 100-percent for customs duties. Whereas Thai Post normally does not assess duty for clothing at all. So this is an important discriminator for me. I’m ready otherwise to place an order, but just need some help in selecting the right combination and making sure how it will be shipped. Thanks.
Thanks for your question. Check out some options here:
https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-wetsuit-tops-bottoms.html#/?_=1&filter.sizes=L&page=1&filter.thickness=2.5mm&filter.thickness=2mm&filter.thickness=1.5mm&filter.suit_type=L%2FS%20Tops&filter.suit_type=Pants
But, frankly, I can’t guarantee these will keep you much warmer. Two piece kits are only going to ever keep you so warm because of the gap between the top and bottom. And because of that, you rarely find tops and pants much thicker than 1.5mm or 2mm. It may be time to switch over to a thin 3/2mm one piece fullsuit. Feel free to reach out to customer service if you need additional help! service@wetsuitwearhouse.com or 1-866-906-7848.
I am looking to buy a wetsuit for my daughter. She is 5’9 and 125lbs. Going to roam the coast of california from san diego to pismo. Should we get a 4/3 or 5/4? A full wetsuit and a spring suit? A jacket for spring and summer? front zip or back zip?
If possible, I would definitely recommend getting her chest measurement. It will go a long way in ensuring the best chance of getting the right size from the start. If she is surfing, a 4/3mm should do her pretty well for most the year. If she doesn’t do well with cold, a 5/4mm might be appropriate for the cooler months. However, a 4/3mm should be a pretty solid suit for most of the year. If you need some additional help, feel free to reach out to customer service 1-866-906-7848 or service@wetsuitwearhouse.com.
Hi Lauren, great article !
I am a 5’11, 167-lb, 46 y.o. male competitive swimmer (50m @ 26.5s, 100m @ 58.5s, 400m @ 4’57”) and I am looking for a wetsuit that will allow me do my training in a outdoor pool whose water temperature ranges from 62F to 75F. My typical session lasts 50 to 65 min (including intervals), 3000 meters. I am the kind of guy who likes cooler water (78F on Speedos are perfect for training).
Which models and sizes would you recommend please ? Should I go sleeveless ?
Thank you !
Hey Andre,
Thanks for asking! Based on your measurements and needs, I would recommend this suit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/666-S553.html. But, I need to know your chest measurement, do you happen to have that? From your height and weight, you could get away with the size M, but that also depends on your chest size. If you need any additional help, please reach out to our customer service team either via live chat, phone (866-906-7848) or email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com). Thank you!
Hi Lauren, I am going to be doing some canyoning and am not quite sure what to buy. I will be swimming, wading, rock hopping, scrambling, liloing through the canyons and the water is relatively cold 50-60F. I need something relatively tough but flexible and easy to move in. Thanks. Monique
Hi Monique,
We don’t usually get asked about wetsuits for canyoning. Based on your variety of uses for a wetsuit as well as the water temperatures, we recommend a 5mm 1-piece fullsuit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/womens-scuba-fullsuits.html#/?_=1&filter.thickness=5mm&page=1. If you need help with sizing or with finding the right suit, please feel free to contact our customer service team either via live chat, phone (866-906-7848) or email us at service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thank you!
I plan to swim a 1500 in Lake Titicaca in Bolivia this coming April. Wikipedia claims Titicaca is about 50-57F, and from the photos I’ve seen, most wear full wet suits, with a few people in speedos. I’ve been swimming my whole life and figure I can do the swim in 30-35 minutes. Would a sleeveless tri suit work for me, or do you think I should go with the full suit? Thanks!
Hi Teresa,
Thanks for asking! If you do well in chilly water temps, I’d say that a long jane would be fine for you especially considering that you are racing. If you think you might want more warmth, go for the fullsuit. If you want to go the long jane route, try this suit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/S553WB.html and if you want to go the fullsuit route, check out this suit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/S853WB.html. Hope that helps!
Hello! I am looking for a wetsuit for two purposes… one is for snorkling/beach…going to Hawaii in March not sure exact water temp but I know last time we went in march I was a baby about the cold water and it infringed on a good time with my kids…looking to avoid that this time and secondly, hoped to be able to use the same wetsuit to more comfortably swim laps for exercise in my own backyard pool in southern CA even in the cooler months without feeling too restrictive…all wetsuits look like they would be such a pain to get on and off…I have never worn one…the zipper one look easier -not sure if thats true or if thats an option?? Thanks for any advice!!!!
Hey Mandy,
Thanks for reaching out about this. So, we recommend checking out this fullsuit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/PROD/A830WF.html. It’s pretty easy to get on/off, it will work for both water sports, and since you don’t enjoy cooler water temps, it provides you with full coverage for warmth. Hope that helps. Let us know if you need anything else. Thank you!
Hi, I’m looking for a wetsuit maybe a shorty or full suit as I live in Bermuda where 6 months a full suit would be fine but may be a bit warm in the summer months. I’m looking for something very thin and flexible with a front zip or zipperless as I’d like to be able to use it for SUP’ing, Kayaking and also beginner scuba. I’ve been looking at the O’neill Hyperfreak range but nowhere seems to have stock especially in Large Tall sizes! Can you tell me if you think this sounds like the best suit and if you’ll be stocking them soon? Alternatively is there another option that will meet my needs? Thanks
Hey Jason,
Check out these suits: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-fullsuit-wetsuits.html#/?_=1&page=1&filter.zipper_type=Chest%20Zip&filter.zipper_type=No%20Zip&filter.sizes=LT&filter.thickness=2.5mm&filter.thickness=3%2F2mm&filter.thickness=3mm.
They are available in LT and are either front (chest zip) or zip free. They will be great for any activity you mentioned except SCUBA. For SCUBA, you’ll really need a suit specifically made to deal with the compression wetsuits will endure at depths. Feel free to contact customer service at service@wetsuitwearhouse.com or (866) 906-7848 if you need more help!
Hello! I am not familiar with wetsuits and not sure which one I should be purchasing. I am looking for one for lake sports (temps about 70) jet skiing/surfing off boats/tubing. I hate worrying about wardrobe malfunctions! I want to feel comfortable and I have no idea what size; I’m 5’6 135-140. I just don’t want a wetsuit falling down on me and I don’t want it to be a chore to put on. Can you help? Thank you!!
Hi Renata,
If the air temps will be warm when you’re out, you should be good with a long sleeve top or a shorty springsuit. If you don’t do very well with the cold water or think the air may be cool, a 3/2mm fullsuit with flatlock seams should work well, too. None of these are going to fall down on you or lead to wardrobe malfunctions. Wetsuits fit tight, like a “second skin”! Feel free to contact our customer service team either via live chat, email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or call us at 866-906-7848. Thank you!
Hello! I need a warm suit for working on dock systems in early spring. Water temp could be as low as high 40s. Not super concerned about flexibility. Need tear resistance. 6″1″ male, 190lbs.
Hey John,
I’d suggest the Waterman 7mm combo by NeoSport since it will work well in the 40 degree water and works well for dock installing, boat cleaning, etc. A 2XL will probably be the best size for you. If you do decide to get the 7mm thickness, most people have to go up a size (at least for the jacket portion) but you can mix and match thicknesses and sizes if you look at the individual products (not the combos). Here’s the link to our entire Waterman selection: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/neosport-waterman-wetsuits.html.
If you need additional help, please reach out to our customer service team either via live chat, phone (866-906-7848) or email them at service@wetsuitwearhouse.com. Thank you!
Hi Lauren. I am looking to whitewater raft in spring cold water and also swim/skydive in Hawaii winter and summer. I’m bust 36, hips 42. Is there a brand of wetsuit built for those dimensions? Thanks
I would recommend taking a look at some long janes and jackets found here: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/search.html#/filter:gender:Women's/filter:suit_type:Long$2520Johns/filter:suit_type:L$252FS$2520Tops.
Separates are great for kayaking and can be used together or separately for other sports as well. In order to help with size, we would need to know how tall you are. Don’t hesitate to contact service@wetsuitwearhouse.com if you need more assistance, or call (866) 906-7848. Thank you!
Hi Lauren! I’m looking for a warm water wetsuit that will keep me buoyant. I have trouble treading water for long periods of time and I’ve previously snorkeled with a wetsuit (over a decade ago) that kept me nice and buoyant for a long time. Do you have any recommendations?
Hi Lauren,
I’m planning a backcountry kayaking trip in Alaska for next summer. I plan to use a wetsuit as a Baselayer and wear a wool layer and rain gear on top. What kind of wetsuit do you recommend?
Hey Robert,
That sounds super exciting! Depending on the water temperatures, you have a couple of options for what kind of wetsuit to wear. If water temps are 60 degrees Fahrenheit and up, check out a 3/2mm sealed fullsuit: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-fullsuits-32.html#/filter:seam:Sealed. If you think that will be too warm for you (since you are also already wearing a wool layer and rain gear), check out a long john to wear underneath your other gear: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-long-john-wetsuits.html. Hope that helps and hope you have an awesome time!
I need to order a wetsuit online due to price. It is for my husband, who was uncomfortable in the biggest suit the company could provide on a scuba trip. (And will be used for a handful of moderately warm water scuba trips in the future.)
Trouble is, if you weigh 300+ lbs, the chart shows you at 7ft tall! He is only 5′ 10″… Do I try to go by chest/waist measurements and ignore weight and height? Or do I split the difference between weight and height and ignore the chest/waist?
I will have the same problem if I get one… I am only 5′ 2, but my weight says I should be over 6ft tall!
Thanks for any info you can provide!
Hey there,
Great questions! The best advice here is to first base the wetsuit size off of your chest and height measurements. Weight and waist measurements are also very important, but start with your chest measurement first and then go from there on the size chart. In some cases, finding a name-brand wetsuit that caters to all of your measurements perfectly can be difficult. If you look at a product’s size chart and your measurements still don’t match up to the best size, you could also look into custom wetsuits. They’re pricier, but they’re created just for your body. You can learn more about our custom wetsuits here: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/custom-wetsuits.html.
Thank you and hope that helps!
I sail a small inflatable catamaran (Minicat 410) on the Potomac River in Washington DC. Though the boat is open and low down, I hardly get wet, but there is always the risk of capsizing, and so I usually wait until the water temp is at least 65F. I’m thinking of getting a wetsuit so that I can start sailing earlier in the season, when the water is still around 50F. I’d like something that won’t be constricting as I sail, and will protect me from cold shock if I capsize (in which case I’ll be in the water for a few minutes until I right the boat), but which also doesn’t take long to put on and take off (because the boat itself takes quite a bit of time to assemble). What would you suggest? Thanks!
Hey Andrew,
Sounds like you can just get away with a general full wetsuit. I’d say to do layering pieces but those water temps are chilly, so a fullsuit is your best bet for protection and warmth. For 50 degrees F and up waters, check out our 4/3mm fullsuit selection: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-fullsuits-43.html. And when the waters get above 65 degrees F, try a 3/2mm fullsuit. See our selection here: https://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/wetsuits/category/mens-fullsuits-32.html. If you need additional help, please feel free to contact our customer service team either via live chat, email (service@wetsuitwearhouse.com) or call 866-906-7848. Thanks!
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