Wetsuits
Keep an eye out for the wrist and ankle seals; most brands will have some sort of material to keep these seals nice and tight. All suits are not created equal and will provide a different fit. Check out your local dealer to try on different suits to see what fits best for your body type. Boating
Also called rubber, neoprene is the material from which the majority of wetsuits are made. The neoprene with the most stretch is better because it flexes with your body movements, and the stretchiness typically is a large factor in the cost of the suit. Thickness
A suit’s thickness determines the warmth, and millimeters are used to measure the neoprene’s thickness. Anywhere from .5 mm up to 2 mm is the standard thickness for wetsuit tops, and spring suits (shorties) are usually in that thickness range as well. When you see a suit that is a 3/2, this means the suit has 3 mm thick neoprene on the body panels, and 2 mm thickness on the arms and legs. For serious cold water, opt for a 4/3 suit, but you probably won’t want to get too much thicker than that in a wetsuit, for mobility’s sake. Seams
There are essentially three different types of seams out there. Flat-locked stitched seams are used on smaller-thickness suits and will let a little bit of water through. Glued and blind-stitched (also called sealed) seams let very little water through, tend to be a little more expensive, and are the most common. Finally there are glued, blind-stitched and taped seams (also called sealed and taped), in which the seams are taped for extra durability, and the assurance of little to no water getting through.
Top Things We Like: + Magnaflex neoprene throughout makes it super comfortable. + Fluidseal at the wrists stays snug and adds to all-day warmth. + The side zipper with board-short connector is very convenient. Sizes: S, M, L, XL, 2XL
Thickness: 1 mm MSRP: $100
bodyglove.com
Women’s Spring Suit Things We Like: + Magnaflex neoprene throughout keeps it comfy. + Lycra leg trim and smooth-skin collar provide extra comfort. + Interior key pocket is really convenient. Sizes: 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 9/10, 11/12
Thickness: 2 mm MSRP: $100
bodyglove.com
Full Suit Things We Like: + It offers Flexlite neoprene panels for fantastic comfort combined with the warmth many riders demand. + The new Cause Speed Zip Entry may change wetsuit technology forever. + Its breathable construction was chosen specifically for cool conditions. Sizes: XS, S, M, MT, L, XL, XXL
Thickness: 3 mm/2 mm MSRP: $140
jetpilot.com
Spring Suit Things We Like: + This Austrian wetsuit offers extreme elasticity and complete comfort, thanks to the open-cell technology of the neoprene used to make it. + The mono is great for entry-level and recreational water sports. + This wetsuit is very easy to get on and off — a big plus. Sizes: N/A
Thickness: 1.5 mm MSRP: $150
camaro.at
Full Suit Things We Like: + This wetsuit is made in Austria and from material that seems impossibly thin. In use, you’ll enjoy great workmanship and material that’s up to the task. + Wearing this suit is like having a suit of armor between you and the environment. + It’s hot-welded, so there are no stitches and comfort is maximized. Sizes: N/A
Thickness: .5 mm MSRP: $300
camaro.at
Top Things We Like: + Silver style is cool, yet the super lightweight top keeps you very warm. + The titanium water repellent allows this top to shed water like a waxed windshield, according to its maker. + Super flexibility is afforded. Sizes: N/A
Thickness: .5 mm MSRP: $150
camaro.at
