Wetsuit thickness is one of the key points to consider when select a wetsuit. You need to know how thick your wetsuit should be, which can be determined by looking at how cold (or warm) the sea temperature is where you’ll be surfing/ swimming/ diving.
Wetsuit thickness is usually measured in mm. When you see a wetsuit, listed with multiple thickness such as 5/4mm, the suit is constructed using the thicker, warmer panels on the torso and the thinner panels on the legs and arms to maintain maximum mobility.
A wetsuit’s thickness is mainly based on the internal neoprene foam’s thickness. In general, the thicker neoprene foam, the warmer the suit. Otherwise, the thinner the neoprene foam, the more lightweight and flexible the suit. Water temperature is the main factor in determining the right wetsuit thickness for you.
It’s important to consider that wetsuit suitability may vary by 5-10 ℃ depending on your weight, level of activity and the temperature outside.
| Water Temp(℃) | Wetsuit Thickness | Wetsuit Tape | Best For | Bootie, Gloves, Hood ? |
| 0-3℃ | 6mm/7mm | Hooded Full Wetsuit | Warmth | 7mm booties 7mm gloves |
| 4-7℃ |
5mm/6mm |
Hooded Full Wetsuit | Warmth and Performance |
5mm booties 5mm gloves |
| 8-11℃ | 5/4mm, 4mm or 4/3m | Full wetsuit | Warmth and Performance | 3mm Booties |
| 12-17℃ | 3mm or 3/2mm |
Full wetsuit |
Warmth and Performance | |
| 18-26℃ | 2mm | Rashguard Spring Suit/ Wetsuit Jacket/ Short John | Sun Proteciton, Wind Chill Protection /Warmth in Cool Climate |
Other factors to consider besides water temperature
Except the water temperature, there’re other factors to consider when choosing the right wetsuit thickness.
Air temperature : This is usually linked to water temperature but in some case changing weather conditions or currents can create a gap between the two. Don’t presume that warm weather means warm water or vice-versa.
Wind : Wind chill is just as important as water temperature. Although quality wetsuits should feature wind-repellent technology in the interior lining or the neoprene exterior , icy winds can call for a warmer wetsuit or a neoprene hood, gloves or booties.
Personal preference: Gauging your own tolerance to cold water is important. If you are sensitive than average, you may need a thicker wetsuit.
When water temperatures dip below 15℃, wetsuit accessories will help to keep your head, hands and feet warm, which contributes to your core warmth too. The three main categories of accessories are :
Wetsuit Boots：Keep your feet warm and provide protection
Wetsuit Gloves: Keep hands warm and provide protection
Wetsuit Hoods: Protect your head and ears from icy winds
If you are interested in our wetsuit product, please feel free to contact us.
