Getting a wetsuit ? What do I need to know

Whether it’s for surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, kite surfing, Sea-Doo or other water sports, choosing the right wetsuit is essential. Choosing the wrong one can restrict your movements, cause heat loss and even affect your performance.

In this article, we quickly explain how to select your gear based on the sport you like and the water temperature. You can of course contact us at any time for tips and advice.

1. Why is it important to choose the right wetsuit ?

A wetsuit is designed to insulate you from the cold by trapping a thin layer of water between your skin and the suit itself. The water warms up with body temperature, forming a thermal barrier.

🔹 Thermal protection: to keep you warm and prevent hypothermia.

🔹 Freedom of movement: depending on the sport, it's also important to maximize comfort and flexibility.

🔹 Durability and resistance: from saltwater, wind, UV rays, and rash.

2. What thickness to choose according to the sport practiced?

It is essential to properly match your choice to the sport you practice and the weather conditions.

For example, going out on a paddle board or kayak  versus a surf or snorkeling session. In paddle boarding, you're on the water; whereas surfing or snorkeling, you're in the water. The needs are different and it's important to take them into account when making your choice.

As a guideline, when the sport is surfing:

🌊 Surf & Bodyboard

✔ Needs: Waterproofing, flexibility, and warmth

✔ Recommendations:

• Temperate water (20°C+) → Shorty 1 to 2 mm
• Cool water (15-20°C) → 3/2 mm
• Cold water (10-15°C) → 4/3 mm with neoprene boots and gloves
• Very cold water (-10°C or lower) → 5/4 mm+ with hood, boots and gloves

So it might be interesting to consider some variations for SUP, kayaking, swimming, etc. The needs are slightly different.

3. How to choose the thickness of your wetsuit ?

Generally speaking, for all water sports:

👉 The colder the water, the thicker the wetsuit needs to be. Various neoprene accessories such as boots (booties), gloves, and hoods can also be useful or even necessary. Note that different thicknesses (mm) are available for these items.