Should A Wetsuit Be Tight? Wetsuit Fitting

Should a wetsuit be tight? The Watersports Centre basic rule with wetsuits is to ensure they are skin-tight, but not uncomfortable. Here we detail the answers to a few questions we get asked often by our customers.

How right fitting should a wetsuit be?

In general, a wetsuit should fit snugly, like a second skin but not so tight that your range of motion is limited. The sleeves (if full-length) should fall at the wrist bone and the legs just above the ankle bone, and there should be no gaps, pockets, or rolls of neoprene.

How do you know if your wetsuit is too small?

If it’s too tight, your experience in the water won’t be pleasant. When trying on in a store, the suit should feel tight but not restrictive. Once it’s on correctly (not bunched up around the crotch or under the arms), there should be no air pockets or creases in the neoprene.

Should a wetsuit be hard to put on?

Wetsuits need to be snug to do their job, but you have to be able to move freely and breathe while wearing it. Think of them as needing to be more form-fitting than tight. Try on your wetsuit before your first swim, surf, paddleboard or kite session, just to make sure you are comfortable.

Do wetsuits stretch over time?

First, you have to remember that wetsuits are made for the water. If you buy a wetsuit in the wrong size, it isn’t going to stretch to fit you better. Sure, after many years of wear, the wetsuit might stretch out a bit, but you want to buy a wetsuit in the right size to begin with. It is also important to maintain good care of your wetsuit.

Is it easier to put on a wetsuit wet or dry?

If you are wet or sweaty, The Watersports Centre suggests cooling off and towel drying before attempting to put on your dry wetsuit, as wet or sweaty skin will make it extremely difficult to slip the wetsuit on and could lead to excessive pulling on the suit and possible tearing. A wet wetsuit will slide onto your body more easily, but this is not a nice experience if the weather is cold as well as your suit! When the temperatures are low, it is also recommended you always start with your wetsuit dry before going in to cold water.

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The Watersports have a range of wetsuits available for men and women, for all water temperatures and activities.