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Misconceptions About Surfing Wetsuits

Bodyline Wetsuits has been in the wetsuit game for over 25 years, so we know a thing or two about surfing wetsuits. Over the years we have seen and heard some wild claims and misconceptions about surfing wetsuits. Here are some of our favourites;

– Surfing Wetsuits Keep You Dry

Contrary to popular belief, wetsuits are designed to let a little water in. Then keep that water in, letting your body heat it up, and thus keeping you warm. Dry suits keep you warm and dry, wetsuits keep you warm and wet. They are called wetsuits for a reason!

– Wetsuits are all pretty much the same

Big no-no! There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to surfing wetsuits. And considering that wetsuits can range from £50 to £500, it would be unwise not put the proper thought into your purchase.

Wetsuits are available in different thicknesses, from 2mm to 6mm. Types of seam stitching, including flatlocked and glued and blindstitched. Taped or not taped. Each surfing wetsuit brand has multiple types of neoprene they use throughout their wetsuit range, to offer different types of durability, stretch and lining (that can make the suit warmer and dry faster.

Our advice: There’s a lot more to a wetsuit than meets the eye. Discuss your needs and budget with a wetsuit expert, who can best advise you on the best wetsuits to suit your requirements.

– Wetsuits Last Forever

Well maybe not forever, but consumers do expect wetsuits to last to last for a long time, when in fact they rarely do. In our experience, if you use your wetsuit regularly (3+ times a week), then a wetsuit will last you around a year. This of course is a rough guide.

Our advice: Look after your wetsuit (follow our surfing wetsuit care tips).

– Back Zip Wetsuits Are Better Than Chest Zips (Or Vice Versa)

There are pros and cons to wetsuits with either a back zip or a chest zip. With the introduction of batwings and more flexible neoprene, it really comes down to personal preference.

Wetsuits with back zips are easier to get in and out of because of the larger entry ‘hole’. Whereas chest zips offer more flexibility in the shoulders and are less prone to flushing.

– It’s OK to Dry Your Wetsuit in the Tumble dryer

Not only is it the fastest way to dry your wetsuit, but it’s also the quickest way to completely knacker your wetty! Heat (even direct sunlight) affects the neoprene and the glue holding your wetsuit together.

Our advice: Always dry your wetsuit in the shade and NEVER use a tumble dryer or washing machine!

– All Wetsuits Smell

Wetsuits only start smelling if you don’t take care of them properly. Don’t rinse your wetsuit out in fresh cold water after every surf? Then it won’t be long before your wetsuit smells worse than an old pair of gym socks.

Our advice: If you’re wetsuit starts to smell then try using wetsuit shampoo such as ‘Piss Off’, it works wonders.

– Internal Taping/external liquid Seams Make a Surfing Wetsuit Warmer

A brand new glued and blindstitched wetsuit has completely sealed seams, therefore internal taping and/or external liquid seams don’t necessarily increase the warmth of a wetsuit. However, later in the life of your wetsuit, internal taping and/or external liquid seams can offer greater protection against leaks and greater warmth should the seams start to deteriorate.

– Surfing Wetsuits Give you Rashes

Thankfully this is now a thing of the past! With improved materials and wetsuit designs, you will find that you are less to get a rash, as long as your surfing wetsuit fits properly. If for some reason you do find your wetsuit gives you a rash, there is always the trusty rash vest to solve that problem.

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About Bodyline Wetsuits

Bodyline Wetsuits has been in the wetsuit game for over 25 years, so we know a thing or two about surfing wetsuits. We are proud to be the authorised repair centre for leading wetsuit brands, including Billabong, C-Skins, Quiksilver, Patagonia and Rip Curl, to name just five.