1. Understanding the wetsuit thickness system
Thickness notation: what do the numbers mean?
When you see a wetsuit labeled 3/2, 4/3, or 5/4/3, these numbers indicate the thickness of the neoprene in millimeters, depending on the body area:
- The first number corresponds to the thickness on the torso and back, where body heat needs to be best conserved.
- The second number corresponds to the arms and legs, which need more flexibility for paddling.
- The third number, when present, refers to even thinner zones (shoulders, underarms) to maximize freedom of movement.
The higher the numbers, the warmer the wetsuit — and the less flexible it is.
Which thickness for which water temperature?
It is the water temperature (not the air) that determines the wetsuit thickness you need. Here is the reference chart:
| Water temperature | Recommended thickness | Wetsuit type |
|---|---|---|
| Above 24°C | None or lycra | Neoprene top or swimsuit |
| 20 – 24°C | 1 to 2 mm | Shorty or neoprene top |
| 17 – 20°C | 2/2 or 3/2 mm | Light fullsuit |
| 14 – 17°C | 3/2 or 4/3 mm | Standard fullsuit |
| 10 – 14°C | 4/3 or 5/4 mm | Winter suit |
| Below 10°C | 5/4/3 or 6/5 mm | Extreme cold suit + accessories |
In France, temperatures vary greatly depending on the region and the season. On the Atlantic coast (Landes, Basque Country, Brittany), the water ranges from 10°C in winter to 20°C in summer. In the Mediterranean, it can reach 25°C in August, sometimes making a wetsuit unnecessary.
2. The different types of wetsuits
The fullsuit
This is the most common model. It covers the entire body from the wrists to the ankles, with or without an integrated hood. It is the default choice for surfing in France for most of the year. It comes in all thicknesses, from the light 2/2 mm summer suit to the heavy 6/5 mm winter suit.
For whom? All surfers, for cool to cold water.
The shorty
The shorty is a short wetsuit, with short sleeves and short legs (like Bermuda shorts). It offers little thermal protection but remains very flexible and comfortable. Suitable for warm water, between 20 and 24°C, it is popular for tropical surf destinations or in the Mediterranean during the summer.
For whom? Warm water, surfers who run hot or who prioritize freedom of movement.
The neoprene jacket (top or jacket)
The neoprene jacket can be worn alone (over a swimsuit) in very warm water, or over a wetsuit to add an extra layer of warmth. Practical and lightweight, it is ideal for cool morning sessions in summer.
For whom? Very warm water, or for extra warmth over an existing suit.
The wetsuit with an integrated hood
For extreme winter conditions, some models include an integrated hood that eliminates any water infiltration at the neck. Essential below 10°C, it might feel restrictive at first but quickly becomes appreciated during sessions in freezing water.
For whom? Winter surfing, very cold water (Brittany, Normandy in winter).
3. The closure system: back zip, chest zip, or zipless?
Back zip
This is the traditional system, the most widespread and the most affordable. The zipper runs down the back, from the neck to the mid-back. Easy to put on alone, this system has one drawback: the zipper creates a point of water infiltration in the back, leading to heat loss.
Advantages: easy to put on and take off, more affordable price. Disadvantages: more significant water infiltration, slight heat loss.
Chest zip
The chest zip has become the standard for mid-range and high-end wetsuits. The zipper is positioned on the front, at the top of the chest. This system significantly reduces water infiltration and provides better support in the back. However, it is a bit more difficult to put on, especially alone.
Advantages: less infiltration, better warmth, more flexibility in the back. Disadvantages: slightly more complex to put on, slightly higher price.
Zipless
Zipless wetsuits are at the top of neoprene technology. Without any zipper, they are pulled on using the elasticity of the fabric. They offer maximum flexibility, zero infiltration, and unparalleled freedom of movement. Conversely, they require a bit of effort to dress and undress, and are generally more expensive.
Advantages: maximum flexibility, zero infiltration, optimal comfort. Disadvantages: more difficult to put on, high price.
4. The quality criteria of a good wetsuit
The quality of the neoprene
Not all neoprene foams are equal. Standard neoprene (limestone neoprene) is durable and affordable. Limestone-based neoprene is more environmentally friendly than traditional petroleum-based neoprene. The best models use ultra-flexible neoprene like Yamamoto (Japanese), recognized for its lightness, flexibility, and exceptional thermal properties. The better the quality of the neoprene, the more flexible, warm, and durable the suit will be.
Seams: glued, blind stitched, and taped
Seams are the weak point of a wetsuit. An ordinary seam lets water through. Here are the different types, from the least to the most efficient:
Overlock seams are the least efficient: they let water through and are reserved for entry-level wetsuits.
Glued and Blind Stitched (GBS) seams are the quality standard. The needle does not pass completely through the neoprene, which significantly limits infiltration. This is the minimum recommended for surfing in cool water.
Glued, blind stitched, and taped seams (with interior or exterior tape) are the best of the best. A heat-sealed tape is applied over the seams to make them completely watertight. Ideal for the coldest winter conditions.
Flexibility and freedom of movement
A good wetsuit should never hinder paddling. Test it in the store: raise your arms above your head, simulate a paddling motion. If you feel significant resistance in the shoulders, try another model. Flexibility in the shoulders and underarms is crucial for comfort during a session.
Durability
A quality wetsuit can last 3 to 5 years with proper care. The areas most subject to wear and tear are the knees, underarms, and wrists. Check that the neoprene is reinforced in these areas on the models you are considering.
5. How to choose the right size?
The importance of a perfect fit
A wetsuit that is too large lets in a lot of water, which takes time to warm up and constantly chills you. A wetsuit that is too tight restricts movement, compresses the chest, and tires you out quickly. The right size is one that fits your body perfectly without hindering movement.
How to measure yourself
Take your measurements before consulting the size charts: height (in cm), chest circumference (under the armpits), waist, hip circumference, and weight. Each brand has its own size chart. Do not rely on your usual clothing size: wetsuit sizes vary from one brand to another.
Adjustments to check in the store
Put the wetsuit on and check these points: no air gap in the back (a sign of a size that is too large), wrists and ankles should not leave a large empty space, the neck should be comfortable without being restrictive, and the shoulders and underarms should allow you to lift your arms without excessive resistance. If you are between two sizes, choose the smaller one: neoprene loosens slightly over time.
6. Thermal accessories to complete your wetsuit
Below 14°C, a good wetsuit is no longer enough. The extremities (hands, feet, head) cool down quickly and can make the session very uncomfortable. Here are the essential accessories for winter sessions.
Neoprene booties
Booties protect the feet from the cold and from reefs. 3 mm for mild autumns, 5 mm for winter. Choose booties with a non-slip sole. They come with a split-toe sole (for more grip and board feel) or a round-toe sole (warmer).
Neoprene gloves
Hands are the first to suffer from the cold. 2 to 3 mm gloves are sufficient for water at 12-14°C. Below 10°C, opt for 5 mm gloves. Some surfers resist the idea of surfing with gloves for a long time because they reduce the sensitivity of paddling. But once the hands are numb, surfing quickly becomes impossible anyway.
Neoprene hood or beanie
The head is responsible for a significant part of body heat loss. A 2 to 3 mm neoprene hood makes a radical difference in comfort during winter sessions. For extreme conditions, some wetsuits offer an integrated hood, which prevents any water infiltration at the neck.
7. The best surf wetsuit brands
The market is dominated by a few major brands that stand out for the quality of their materials and construction.
Rip Curl is one of the global leaders, known in particular for its Flash Bomb line, using high-quality Yamamoto neoprene, and its very flexible E-Bomb line.
O'Neill invented the wetsuit in the 1950s and remains a gold standard. Their Psycho and Hyperfreak lines are highly regarded for their value for money and flexibility.
Patagonia distinguishes itself through its strong environmental commitment, with wetsuits made from natural rubber (Yulex) and recycled materials. An excellent choice for surfers conscious of their ecological impact.
Quiksilver and Billabong offer good value for money on their mid-range lines, which are accessible to beginners and casual surfers.
Picture Organic Clothing is a French brand on the rise, offering very high-quality eco-friendly wetsuits.
8. Maintaining your wetsuit to make it last
A well-maintained wetsuit lasts two to three times longer than a neglected one. Here are the golden rules:
Always rinse your wetsuit in fresh water after every session, both inside and out, to remove the salt, sand, and chlorides that degrade neoprene. Never wring it out: gently squeeze the water out by hand. Dry it in the shade, turned inside out (inside facing out first), on a wide hanger. Direct sunlight degrades neoprene and makes it brittle. Never use a washing machine, tumble dryer, or any direct heat source. Store it flat or on a wide hanger; never folded in half over a thin bar (which leaves marks on the neoprene).
In the event of a small tear or a seam coming undone, repair it immediately with neoprene cement, available at any surf shop. A small repair made in time prevents irreparable damage.
9. New or used: what should you choose?
The new wetsuit
Buying new guarantees the neoprene is in perfect condition, the seams are intact, and you get maximum lifespan. You can also try on several models in-store to find the perfect size. Prices range from €80 to €150 for entry-level, €150 to €300 for solid mid-range, and €300 to €600 for high-end Yamamoto models.
The used wetsuit
A used wetsuit can be a good option if you are just starting out and don't want to invest immediately. Inspect it carefully: check the condition of the seams, ensure there are no major tears, test the overall flexibility of the neoprene (hardened, cracked neoprene is at the end of its life), and make sure the zipper works properly. Avoid wetsuits that give off a strong, persistent odor despite rinsing: this is a sign of neglect.
10. Budget: how much should you invest in your first wetsuit?
For a beginner, a mid-range wetsuit between €150 and €250 is the best investment. It will offer decent seam quality (GBS), neoprene that is sufficiently flexible, and reasonable durability. There is no need to start with a €500 high-end model: you won't yet be able to perceive all the nuances of comfort it offers. On the other hand, avoid models under €80: the seams come apart quickly and the stiff neoprene will restrict your movement.
Conclusion: invest in your comfort to surf for longer
A wetsuit is not a secondary accessory. It is a central piece of equipment that directly determines the enjoyment and duration of your sessions. Too many surfers, especially beginners, skimp on the quality of their wetsuit and end up suffering from the cold within the first hour in the water.
Remember the essentials: adapt the thickness to the water temperature of your regular spot, prioritize at least glued and blind-stitched seams, check that the size fits your body perfectly, and rinse it carefully after every session. With the right choice, you will surf comfortably all year round, even in the middle of a Breton winter.
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