Wetsuits serve as your ultimate companion in the water. Acting as a second skin, they shield you from scratches, biting winds, and the chilling embrace of the water. Wrapping snugly around your body, they not only provide protection, but also have the potential to elevate your performance in whatever aquatic sport your heart beats for.
But when faced with the question “What thickness wetsuit do I need?“, finding your new best friend can become as hard as the initial plunge into the ocean on an icy winter day. Whether your quest leads you to the right wetsuit thickness for scuba diving, kayaking, swimming, or surfing, one crucial factor reigns supreme: comfort! Follow this straightforward, step-by-step guide to discover which wetsuit can deliver the utmost comfort tailored to your needs.
In this article, you will get answers to the following questions:
- What is a good wetsuit thickness for warm water?
- What is a good wetsuit thickness for scuba diving?
- What is a good wetsuit thickness for kayaking?
- What is a good wetsuit for cold water?
- Is it more difficult to swim in a thick wetsuit?
What is a Good Thickness for a Wetsuit?
It’s an easy question with a straightforward answer: A good wetsuit thickness is one that effectively keeps you warm during your chosen water activity while allowing you to move freely.
The real questions we will need to ask are:
- What will the water temperature be like?
- How high is your cold tolerance?
- What are the temperature guidelines for a good wetsuit thickness?
- What material do you want?
- Do you feel comfortable in the wetsuit?
Determine the Water Temperature
Begin by researching the average water temperature of the location where you’ll be using the wetsuit. This factor will be paramount in determining the appropriate thickness.
In certain regions, seasonal variations may not significantly impact water temperatures, while in others, such fluctuations can be pivotal in deciding between a summer-weight wetsuit and one designed for winter conditions.
Certain water sports may even necessitate additional gear such as boots, gloves, and other safety precautions.
- Warm Water (above 75°F or 24°C):
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Water skiing
- Wakeboarding
- Jet skiing
- Surfing
- Boogie boarding
- Moderate Water Temperatures (65-75°F or 18-24°C):
- Scuba diving
- Surfing
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Sailing
- Cool Water (55-65°F or 13-18°C):
- Scuba diving
- Surfing
- Windsurfing
- Kiteboarding
- Open water swimming
- Rowing
- Cold Water (below 55°F or 13°C):
- Ice swimming
- Polar bear plunges
- Ice diving
- Winter surfing
- Winter kayaking/canoeing
Furthermore, consider factors such as wind chill and weather conditions, as they can influence the perceived temperature and overall comfort while in the water.
While certain water sports may afford the luxury of remaining submerged for extended periods, others may require you to contend with conditions both in and out of the water.
Consider your Cold Tolerance
Certainly, personal cold tolerance is a crucial factor to consider when engaging in water sports. Individuals vary in their sensitivity to cold, so it’s essential to assess your own tolerance level and adjust your gear and activities accordingly.
Understand how your body reacts to cold temperatures. Some people can withstand colder water for longer periods without discomfort, while others may feel cold more quickly.
Reflect on previous experiences in similar water temperatures. Consider how you felt during those activities and whether you needed additional insulation or protective gear.
Determine your comfort level with cold water immersion. If you tend to feel uncomfortably cold quickly, you may need thicker wetsuits or additional layers to stay warm.
Stay Aware of Your Body!
Pay attention to how your body responds to cold water during activities. Watch for signs of hypothermia or discomfort, such as shivering, numbness, or decreased coordination, and take appropriate action to warm up if needed.
Understand Wetsuit Thickness Ranges
Familiarize yourself with the typical thickness ranges for different water temperatures.
- Warm Water (above 75°F or 24°C): A wetsuit with a thickness of 1-2mm is suitable for warm water conditions. This thickness provides minimal insulation while offering protection against abrasions and UV exposure.
- Moderate Water Temperatures (65-75°F or 18-24°C): For moderate temperatures, a wetsuit thickness of 3-5mm is recommended. This provides sufficient insulation to keep you comfortable without overheating.
- Cold Water (below 65°F or 18°C): In colder conditions, opt for a wetsuit with a thickness of 5-7mm. Thicker neoprene offers better insulation against cold water, keeping you warm during extended periods in the water.
- Very Cold Water (below 50°F or 10°C): A Wetsuit for extremely cold conditions should come with a thickness of 7mm or more, possibly with added features like sealed seams and thermal linings for maximum warmth retention.
While this list provides an overview of basic temperature regions and the corresponding recommended wetsuit thickness, it’s important to remember that individuals may perceive temperatures differently.
Therefore, it’s essential to consider your personal comfort preferences and sensitivity to cold when selecting the appropriate wetsuit thickness.
Wetsuit Material
Wetsuits are primarily made from neoprene, a synthetic rubber material known for its insulating properties and flexibility. However, the quality of how long the wetsuit lasts and the required thickness of a wetsuit can vary depending on the specific type and construction of the neoprene used.
Standard neoprene is the most basic type used in wetsuits. It provides moderate insulation and flexibility, suitable for general water sports activities in mild to moderate conditions.
High-stretch neoprene is engineered to offer increased flexibility and range of motion. It allows for greater freedom of movement, making it ideal for activities that require agility, such as surfing and paddleboarding.
Thermal neoprene incorporates additional lining or layers to enhance insulation. It retains body heat more effectively, making it suitable for colder water temperatures or extended periods in the water.
Tip:
Depending on your sport of choice, investing in a more expensive high-quality wetsuit can pay off and be worth the investment.
Smoothskin neoprene is coated with a smooth, water-repellent outer surface. It reduces water penetration and wind chill, providing added warmth and comfort, particularly in windy or cold conditions.
Closed-cell neoprene features tiny gas-filled bubbles within the material, which enhance buoyancy. It is commonly used in wetsuits designed for activities like diving, where buoyancy control is important.
Yamamoto neoprene is a premium type known for its high quality and performance. It offers superior flexibility, insulation, and durability compared to standard neoprene, making it popular in high-end wetsuits.
Tip: Wetsuits come in different colors, but choosing the color black for your wetsuit is not only a classic, but also for many more reasons the best choice.
Some manufacturers offer eco-friendly alternatives to traditional neoprene, made from materials like limestone or recycled rubber. These materials aim to reduce the environmental impact of wetsuit production while maintaining performance and quality.
Your Personal Comfort
Regardless of the thickness, the comfort of a wetsuit also depends on its fit and quality. A properly fitting wetsuit should be snug but not overly tight, with no excessive bunching or gaps where water can enter.
Tip:
High-quality materials and construction can also enhance comfort by reducing chafing and irritation.
Some individuals may prefer a slightly thicker or thinner wetsuit based on personal comfort preferences and the specific activity they are engaging in.
For example, as a diver you may opt for thicker wetsuits for extended periods in cold water, while as a surfer you might prioritize flexibility and choose a thinner suit even in moderately cold conditions.
The longer you plan on staying in the water, the more temperature your body will lose. That makes it extremely important to not underestimate the wetsuit thickness needed.
What Thickness of Wetsuit do I need for my Sport?
The thickness of the wetsuit you need for your sport depends on several factors, including the water temperature, your cold tolerance, and the level of activity involved in your sport.
Different sports mean different durations, spent in the water, different body activity that could warm you up from the inside and also different locations to practice your sport.
Depending on those factors, each sport and each athlete might need a different type of wetsuit thickness.
How Thick should a Wetsuit be for Swimming?
For swimming in moderate water temperatures around 60-75°F or 15-24°C, a wetsuit thickness of approximately 3-5mm is generally suitable. This thickness provides enough insulation to keep you comfortable in cooler water temperatures without restricting your movement excessively.
Thinner wetsuits, around 1-3mm, can also be used in warmer water conditions, while thicker wetsuits with 5mm or more are recommended for colder water temperatures.
Ultimately, the ideal thickness depends on your personal cold tolerance, the specific water temperature, and your swimming activity level.
What Thickness of Wetsuit should I get for Surfing?
The appropriate wetsuit thickness for surfing depends on several factors, including water temperature, personal preference, and how much insulation you need.
In warmer conditions, you may be comfortable wearing a thinner wetsuit or even just board shorts and a rash guard. Especially when you are just beginning to surf, tropical Surf Paradises have their special appeal.
A wetsuit thickness of around 1-3mm is suitable for these temperatures, providing some protection against sun and minor scrapes while still allowing for maximum mobility.
In water temperatures between 60-70°F, a wetsuit with a thickness of around 3-4mm is typically recommended for surfing. This thickness offers enough insulation to keep you comfortable during longer sessions in the water without sacrificing too much flexibility.
If you plan on surfing in water temperatures below 60°F, you’ll need a thicker wetsuit to stay warm. A wetsuit with a thickness of 4-5mm or more is suitable for these temperatures.
Some surfers may even opt for a hooded wetsuit or additional layering, shoes and gloves to provide extra warmth and protection from the cold.
What is a Good Wetsuit Thickness for Scuba Diving?
It’s crucial to keep in mind that water conducts heat away from the body much more rapidly than air does—about twenty-five times faster!
While 70 degrees might seem pleasant for a sunny day in the park, if you plan to spend an extended time submerged in water of the same temperature, you’ll definitely need a wetsuit.
When it comes to the choice of the right wetsuit thickness, the temperature guide applies in the same way as for the other sports. The only difference you should keep an eye on is the possible change of temperature during the dive, depending on the depth.
As a beginner, you’ll likely stick to shallower waters, such as pools or venturing out into the ocean on fair weather days. Professionals continually push the boundaries of how deep a human can dive, exploring depths beyond imagination.
However, the deeper you dive, the more your body must contend with preserving warmth over extended periods.
What is a good wetsuit thickness for Kayaking?
In warmer conditions, you may not need a wetsuit for kayaking. However, if you prefer some protection against splashes, sun exposure, or minor scrapes, a thin wetsuit with a thickness of around 1-2mm or even a rash guard can suffice.
The wilder and longer the kayak adventure, the thicker the wetsuit needs to be. Barely anything takes away more from the fun than sitting freezing in the kayak.
Keep in mind that these are general recommendations, and individual preferences may vary based on factors such as wind chill, air temperature, and duration of time spent on the water. It’s essential to choose a wetsuit thickness that provides the right balance of warmth and mobility for your kayaking adventures.
Tips and Tricks for Choosing the Right Thickness of your Wetsuit
With a few tricks, the search for the perfect wetsuit thickness can become not only easier but cheaper as well. Quality instead of quantity is the keyword here.
- Quality Matters: Invest in a high-quality wetsuit made from premium materials. Quality wetsuits provide better insulation, durability, and overall comfort. Look for reputable brands known for their wetsuit craftsmanship.
- Try Before You Buy: If possible, try on different wetsuits to find the one that fits you best. Pay attention to how it feels when you move and whether it provides adequate warmth for your needs.
- Consider Layering: In colder conditions, you can enhance warmth by layering thermal rash guards or neoprene vests underneath your wetsuit. This allows you to adjust your insulation level without needing to invest in multiple wetsuit thicknesses.
- Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations: Look for reviews from other users and seek recommendations from experienced water enthusiasts or professionals. They can provide valuable insights into the performance and suitability of different wetsuit thicknesses for specific activities and conditions.
By considering these tips and tricks, you can choose a wetsuit thickness that provides the right balance of warmth, comfort, and flexibility for your individual needs and preferences.
How thick should the Wetsuit be for Winter?
In water temperatures below 60°F, you’ll need a wetsuit with significant thickness to retain body heat. A wetsuit thickness of 5mm or more is recommended for these conditions.
In extremely cold water temperatures, such as those below 50°F, you may need an even thicker wetsuit or additional thermal layers. A wetsuit thickness of 6mm or more, or even a drysuit with appropriate thermal undergarments, may be necessary for prolonged exposure to such cold conditions.
In addition to a thick wetsuit, you may also want to consider wearing other cold-water gear such as gloves, boots, and hoods to further insulate your body and protect against heat loss.
Ensure that the wetsuit fits properly and allows for a full range of motion. A well-fitting wetsuit will provide better insulation and overall comfort during winter water activities.
How Warm is the Thickest Wetsuit?
The thickest wetsuits available commercially typically range from 7mm to 9mm in thickness. These thicker wetsuits are designed for use in extremely cold water temperatures, such as those found in polar regions or during ice diving.
Thicker wetsuits provide more insulation to keep the wearer warm in frigid conditions, but they may also sacrifice some flexibility and mobility compared to thinner suits.
In addition to standard neoprene wetsuits, there are also specialized drysuits available for very cold water activities. Drysuits offer superior insulation by keeping the wearer completely dry, and they can accommodate additional thermal layers underneath for added warmth.
The choice between a wetsuit or a drysuit depends on factors such as the specific water conditions, personal preference, and the level of insulation required. It’s essential to consider factors such as fit, comfort, and mobility when selecting the right wetsuit thickness for your needs.
Conclusion: What Thickness of Wetsuit Should I Get?
In conclusion, selecting the right wetsuit thickness is paramount to enjoying your water adventures comfortably and safely. By considering factors such as water temperature, personal cold tolerance, and the specific activity you’ll be engaging in, you can make an informed decision about the thickness that best suits your needs.
Whether you’re gliding through warm tropical waters, looking for a wetsuit to prevent Jellyfish Stings, navigating moderate temperatures, or braving colder conditions, finding the perfect balance of warmth, comfort, and flexibility is key.
Remember to also prioritize fit, quality, and layering options to enhance your wetsuit experience further. With the right wetsuit thickness chosen, you’ll be ready to dive into unforgettable aquatic experiences with confidence and ease.
