Wetsuits are ideal for any water sport, although they have a strong association with surfing.
Wetsuits should fit you like a second skin, however, they should not be so tight that you are blocking blood flow or that your range of motion is hindered.
If you have a full length wetsuit, it should fall at the wrist just around the bone, and it should fall to the legs above your ankle bones. You should not find any gaps, pockets or otherwise.
A wetsuit will get wet and will loosen up as it does. Once you have worn it a few times, it will develop a memory to your body, and it will start to conform even more.
So, when you are looking to buy a wetsuit, keep these things in mind. However, how can you be certain that your wetsuit will fit you correctly when you are about to buy it?
It is not the easiest thing to size. That is what we will look at today.
Wetsuit Fits
Wetsuits are great for surfing, snorkeling, or even diving. They provide protection from cold water, and they also help improve performance. But finding the perfect wetsuit can be tricky. How do you choose the right size?
There are two main types of wetsuits: neoprene and stretchy lycra. Neoprene suits are thicker and offer better insulation.
Lycra suits are thinner and more flexible. Both types come in various sizes, and choosing the correct size is important.
You should always try on a wetsuit before buying it. The sizing chart below shows the recommended sizes for both neoprene and lycra suits.
If you don’t want to take the time to measure yourself, you can get a good idea of the suit size by looking at the chest measurement.
Fitting Tips For Your Wetsuit
To make the process of getting a wetsuit fit you correctly, we will make it a little easier and go over a select few tips that will help you to know if a wetsuit is the right one for you.
If your wetsuit can tick off all these boxes, it is the right one for you to wear.
Wetsuits Should Fit Tight
Your wetsuit should be a tight fit, but it should not cut off circulation or feel uncomfortable.
A wetsuit may be one of the tightest things you have ever put on, remember, neoprene used in wetsuits is the same that is used in the making of orthopedic braces.
It is not all that different in terms of pressure to compression socks.
Neoprene does stretch when it gets wet, and over time, so if you do not know which size to get, a great way to go is to go between sizes, or go with the more snug option since it will expand.
It will feel weird, and probably frustrating at first, but your wetsuit should not have folds or air pockets in it. If you need to swim fast, air pockets will just slow you down.
Pull Up
Your wetsuit should also not feel too spacious around your groin. When you try on a wetsuit you should pull it up, so it is a snug fit between your legs. Only then is it wise to assess the amount of leg and arm length you have.
It will take time to try it on, so do not rush this, make sure you pull it up and create as much space as possible.
Also, realize you may need a helping hand, especially to zip it up.
Extremities Are Secondary
As you try on a suit, do not consider the arms and legs too much, in regard to the length that is.
You can easily deal with extremities that are too long by trimming them.
We are all made in different shapes and sizes, so you may have a long torso and smaller legs, and so many suits will actually come with extra long extremities.
This is because manufacturers expect you to trim them when you have decided on the overall purchase, and then include instructions on how you should trim these.
Just remember to prioritize how your torso fit feels. It should feel tight enough to hold water in, but with enough flexibility that breathing is comfortable.
A Comfortable Collar
Now, the collar is part of the suit that you cannot trim without harming the suit. You should ensure it is not unbearably uncomfortable. Do remember that the collar will also stretch.
If your neck is on the thicker side then do try to get a brand of wetsuit with a lower collar cut. Do not let the collar restrict your breathing and movement.
No Hanging Out The Back
One of the worst areas for a good fit is around the back, around the small of your back.
If there is too much space in this area, it will billow out, filling with water as you swim, which will hold you back and make you less buoyant.
Try to find a suit that fits this area of your body best, it should be snug but not restrictive.
Your Body Type Is Critical
A great deal of manufacturers of wetsuits will publish very in-depth sizing charts for weight and height.
However, some body types just will not fit into these charts. If you are barrel chested, or have broad shoulders then you may want to go up a size.
If you have a thin body size, consider going down a size.
Women’s suits are even more tricky, every brand and model will fit differently, so consider trying things and do not be afraid to send a suit back and try a different size.
To Conclude
It is hard enough trying to find clothes that fit for many of us, but a wetsuit should be like a second skin, and this is extra difficult.
Our bodies are all different, so make sure that you check the core areas; collar, torso, and lower back for a perfect fit.
Shop around until you find the perfect one!
