Our Guide to Wetsuit Gifting: The Right Fit for Every Sport

Finding the right wetsuit for someone can be tricky, especially when you’re shopping in the unknow world of wetsuits.

Whether it’s a surfer, open-water swimmer or triathlete, wetsuits come in a range of designs and thicknesses, each suited to different needs.

To help you pick the best wetsuit gift this holiday season, we’ve put together a guide on what to look for, including sizing tips and the key features to consider. 

Key Measurements for Wetsuit Sizing

The first thing to consider when choosing a wetsuit is the fit.

A wetsuit should be snug, but not too tight.

To find the perfect size, you'll need three main measurements:

• Height: This helps determine the overall length of the suit.
• Chest: A critical measurement for ensuring the suit fits comfortably around the torso.
• Waist: This ensures a snug fit around the midsection.

Once you’ve taken those measurements, you can compare them with the brands wetsuit’s size chart to find the best match. 

Water Temperature: Picking the Right Thickness

The water temperature plays a huge role in choosing the thickness of the wetsuit.

Here’s a simple guide to help you choose based on water conditions:

• 3/2mm Wetsuits: Best for warmer waters, typically around 60-65°F (16-18°C). A great option for surfers who enjoy fair-weather conditions and swimmers who prefer mild temperatures.
• 4/3mm Wetsuits: Ideal for cooler waters, between 55-60°F (12-15°C). For someone who spends a lot of time in slightly chillier waters, this wetsuit thickness will keep them comfortable.
• 5/4mm Wetsuits: Perfect for colder water, around 50-55°F (10-13°C). Surfers or swimmers who venture into winter waters will benefit from the extra warmth this wetsuit offers.
• 6/5mm or 7mm Wetsuits: Best for extreme cold-water conditions, generally below 50°F (10°C). These suits are made for serious winter surfers, or anyone who needs serious thermal protection in frigid conditions.

If you’re unsure, it’s always better to go a little thicker—this will provide extra warmth and flexibility for a variety of conditions.

Different Suits for Different Sports

Wetsuits are not one-size-fits-all, especially when it comes to different water sports.

Each activity has its own wetsuit design to maximize performance and comfort.

Surfing Wetsuits

Surfing wetsuits need to offer both warmth and flexibility.

Surf wetsuits often have thicker materials in the chest and back for insulation and thinner panels in the arms and legs for maximum movement when paddling and riding waves.

• 3/2mm wetsuits are ideal for warmer water conditions.
• 4/3mm wetsuits are great for more temperate waters.
• 5/4mm wetsuits are suitable for winter surfing when the water temperature dips below 50°F.

Shop Surfing Wetsuits.

Swimming Wetsuits

Swimming wetsuits are all about buoyancy and efficiency. They’re designed to keep the swimmer’s body positioned optimally in the water, reducing drag and improving speed.

• 2/3mm wetsuits are great for warmer open-water swims.
• 3/4mm wetsuits are perfect for those who swim in colder lakes or temperate oceans.

These suits often feature thinner neoprene around the shoulders and arms to allow for the freedom of movement needed for efficient strokes.

Shop Swim Wetsuits.

Triathlon Wetsuits

Triathlon wetsuits are designed for speed, flexibility, and buoyancy.

They provide extra support in the core and legs to help swimmers maintain an ideal position in the water while allowing maximum movement in the arms for fast swimming.

• 3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuits are ideal for most triathlons.
• Extra buoyancy in the chest and hips helps optimize swimming position, and features like quick-drying materials and easy-to-remove zippers make transitions faster during races.

Shop Triathlon Wetsuits.

Wetsuit Accessories: Enhance the Experience

A wetsuit gift can be complemented with some thoughtful accessories. Consider adding these to your gift list:

• Gloves: Perfect for keeping hands warm in colder waters. Available for both surf and swim.
• Thermal Socks: A must-have for anyone who suffers from cold feet during outdoor swimming or surfing. Available for both surf and swim.
• Swim Buoys: Great for safety and visibility in open-water swims, especially for long-distance swimmers or triathletes.
• Change Robes: For warmth and privacy when getting out of a wetsuit post-swim or surf. Quick-drying, oversized robes are ideal for this.
• Wetsuit Hangers: Help them keep their wetsuit in top condition with a special hanger designed to maintain shape.

Choosing the right wetsuit is a thoughtful gift that shows you’ve paid attention to their needs.

Make sure you know the water temperature, their sport, and their size before you choose the wetsuit that fits them best. With the right suit, they’ll have the ultimate holiday gift that keeps on giving all year long.