At What Temperature Do You Need a Wetsuit?

June 15, 2022 3 min read

A wetsuit is a necessity when the water is under 65 degrees, even on a dry day. In the 50s, you may not feel comfortable standing in the water, but in the 60s, you might not want to risk getting your feet wet. A wetsuit can help you avoid skin poisoning and make you feel more comfortable. The temperature of the water is important because it affects your body heat.

Thickness

The thickness of a wetsuit varies depending on the body part it's designed to protect. The torso area will be thickest, followed by the legs, and the arms will be the thinnest. These different thicknesses are meant to balance protection with flexibility. However, don't be alarmed if the thickness you've chosen doesn't match up with your body type.

Depending on your body type and the activity you plan on doing, thickness plays a big role in how flexible your wetsuit is. Thicker suits are less flexible and will restrict your movements more than their thinner counterparts. However, you may need a thicker wetsuit to stay warm in cold water. If you're unsure of the thickness that's right for you, consult a wetsuit thickness chart.

While the thickness of a wetsuit does not directly impact the fit, it does affect how it feels on your body. Thicker wetsuits are less flexible than thin ones, and you may find yourself half a size smaller than your usual size when first trying them on. After wearing them for a few times, though, the wetsuit should stretch out. But don't forget to measure your hands to see if the suit fits properly!

Insulation

A wetsuit is not just for keeping you warm in the water; it also protects your body from the cold. A wetsuit's thickness and materials depend on what you need to protect yourself from. A 3/2mm wetsuit is appropriate for water temperatures around 65F, while a 4/3mm or 5/3mm suit is more suited to cooler water. If you plan to use your wetsuit outdoors, you should also invest in other protective gear, such as gloves, boots, and hoods.

Wetsuit thickness will depend on the water temperature and the climate in which you live. A thicker wetsuit will be needed in colder water as more insulation is needed. The manufacturer will give you an approximate temperature rating for your wetsuit, and you can use the information to decide on the right thickness for your specific situation. Alternatively, you can check the water temperature online. For more information, check out the wetsuit thickness chart.

Temp Rating

When purchasing a wetsuit, you will want to consider the Temp rating. You will want to buy a wetsuit with the right Temp rating for your current weather conditions. Choosing the right Temp rating can be the difference between comfort and misery on cold days. A wetsuit's thickness will help you to keep your body warm, as the material used in wetsuits has neoprene insulation. In addition to this, the neck seal, wrist seal, and ankle seal will also contribute to the suit's warmth.

Wetsuits are available in many styles and types. One style is called a full suit. This type features a long leg and arms that stop below the elbow. They are typically made of a combination of 3mm and 2mm neoprene. Short sleeve fullsuits offer additional flexibility in the arms and are suitable for temperatures in the 60-70 degree (16-21 C) range. This style does not require gloves or a hood.

Sizing Chart

Wetsuits come in various sizes. Most manufacturers use letters for these numbers, but there are also intermediate sizes. A size MS is equivalent to a small-sized M. A size MT is equivalent to a medium-sized M with a tall or wide physique. Despite the differences in letter size, the standard wetsuit sizes are the same across brands. Fortunately, there are a few ways to ensure your wetsuit fits right.

To select the right wetsuit for your body type, first measure your bust. Then, compare your measurements to the brand's size guideline. For tops, your chest measurement is the most important, while your height is less important, and irrelevant for shorts. Another important factor is wetsuit size. Unlike regular shoes, wetsuits don't come in half sizes. Choose the appropriate size based on how warm you will feel in the water.



Also in Info

Men's Suits - Is it OK to Wear the Same Suit Everyday?

February 29, 2024 3 min read

How to Wash a Beach Mat

December 10, 2022 3 min read

Which Dog Life Jacket Is Best?

September 30, 2022 3 min read

Sign up for our Newsletter

Spin to win Spinner icon