Surfing in cold water can be an exhilarating experience, but it requires the right gear to keep you safe and comfortable.
A high-quality wetsuit is essential for braving chilly waters and extending your surfing season.
These specialized suits work by trapping a thin layer of water between your skin and the neoprene material, which your body then warms up, creating insulation against the cold.
When choosing a wetsuit for cold water surfing, you need to consider the thickness.
Wetsuits are measured in millimeters, with thicker suits providing more warmth.
For frigid conditions, you’ll want to look for suits in the 4/3mm to 6/5/4mm range.
The first number indicates the thickness around the torso, while the latter numbers refer to the arms and legs.
Fit is crucial when selecting a wetsuit.
A snug fit prevents water from flushing through the suit, maintaining warmth.
Look for suits with sealed seams and quality zippers to minimize water entry.
Flexibility is another important factor, as you’ll need freedom of movement to paddle and catch waves.
Modern neoprene technologies offer improved stretch and comfort without sacrificing warmth.
Best Wetsuits for Surfing in Cold Water
Ready to catch some waves in chilly waters? You’ll need a top-notch wetsuit to keep you warm and comfortable.
Check out our roundup of the best wetsuits for cold water surfing, designed to help you extend your surf season and tackle those icy breaks.
Hevto 3/2mm Surf Suit
This versatile wetsuit offers excellent value for cold water surfing and various water activities.
- Flexible 3/2mm neoprene design
- Easy-to-use front zipper
- Suitable for multiple water sports
- May run large for some body types
- Limited color options
- Potential durability concerns for frequent use
The Hevto 3/2mm wetsuit is a solid choice for surfers looking to brave chilly waters.
Its 3/2mm neoprene construction strikes a balance between warmth and flexibility, allowing you to paddle and catch waves with ease.
The front zipper design makes getting in and out of the suit a breeze, saving you time and energy before and after your sessions.
You’ll appreciate the suit’s versatility.
It’s not just for surfing – you can use it for swimming, diving, kayaking, and more.
The added buoyancy is a nice touch, giving you a bit of extra float in the water.
Plus, it provides protection against sunburn and minor scrapes, which is always a bonus when you’re spending long hours in the ocean.
Fit can be tricky with wetsuits, and some users have found the Hevto to run a bit large.
If you’re between sizes, you might want to consider sizing down.
The suit offers decent mobility, but you may notice some extra material around the knees or chest depending on your body type.
Despite these minor fit issues, many users find it comfortable for extended wear during their water adventures.
XUKER 2mm Neoprene Wetsuit
You’ll find this versatile wetsuit perfect for various water sports in chilly conditions.
- Excellent warmth retention
- Protects skin from sun and sea creatures
- Easy to put on and take off
- Limited thickness options
- May run large for some users
- Only available in black
This 2mm neoprene wetsuit from XUKER offers a solid balance of warmth and flexibility for cold water activities.
Its three-layer construction features a soft nylon inner lining to prevent chafing, while the durable outer layer resists wear and tear.
The middle neoprene layer traps a thin water barrier against your skin, creating an effective thermal insulation system.
You’ll appreciate the back zipper design, which allows for easy donning and doffing without assistance.
This feature comes in handy when you’re eager to hit the waves or need to change quickly after a session.
The wetsuit’s full-body coverage also provides protection from harmful UV rays and potential scrapes or stings from marine life.
Versatility is a key selling point of this XUKER wetsuit.
Whether you’re into surfing, swimming, snorkeling, or paddling, it’s designed to enhance your experience in various aquatic environments.
Keep in mind that while the 2mm thickness is suitable for cool waters, you might want something thicker for truly frigid conditions.
Some users have reported that the sizing runs large, so consider ordering a size down for a snug fit that maximizes warmth retention.
Dark Lightning Cold Water Wetsuit
You’ll find this affordable wetsuit a solid choice for cold water surfing and various water sports.
- Snug fit with ultra-stretch neoprene
- Suitable for temperatures above 59°F
- Easy-to-use back zip system
- Neck area may feel tight for some
- Sizing can be tricky
- Limited color options
This Dark Lightning wetsuit offers a budget-friendly option for your cold water surfing adventures.
The 3/2mm neoprene thickness provides a good balance of warmth and flexibility, with 3mm coverage on your torso and 2mm on the arms and legs.
It’s designed to keep you comfortable in water temperatures above 59°F, making it suitable for various surfing conditions.
The suit features a snug fit and ultra-stretch neoprene, allowing for a wide range of motion while you’re catching waves.
The back zip system is a bonus for beginners, as it makes getting in and out of the wetsuit a breeze.
Flatlock stitching helps minimize water seepage, keeping you warmer during your surf sessions.
When it comes to sizing, you might need to pay extra attention.
The wetsuit is designed to fit tightly, so it may feel challenging to put on at first.
It’s a good idea to refer to the size chart and consider going up a size if you’re between measurements.
Some users have reported the neck area feeling a bit constricting, so keep that in mind when making your decision.
Hevto Women’s Surfing Wetsuit
You’ll love this versatile wetsuit for cold water surfing and other water activities.
- Premium neoprene for warmth and flexibility
- Easy-to-use back zipper with durable metal puller
- Flatlock stitching enhances comfort and durability
- Limited color options
- May run small for some body types
- Neck area can feel tight for some users
The Hevto Women’s Wetsuit is a game-changer for your cold water surfing adventures.
Made from high-quality neoprene and nylon, it offers the perfect balance of warmth and flexibility.
The 3/2mm thickness keeps you cozy without restricting your movements.
You’ll appreciate the upgraded back zipper with its sturdy metal puller.
It’s a breeze to put on and take off, even when you’re eager to hit the waves.
The double stitching adds extra durability, so you can focus on your surfing without worrying about your gear.
This wetsuit isn’t just for surfing.
It’s great for snorkeling, swimming, diving, and more.
The flatlock stitching and foot and cuff wrap design minimize water entry, keeping you warmer for longer.
Plus, the precise sewing enhances hydrodynamics, helping you glide through the water with ease.
Sizing can be tricky, so be sure to check the size chart carefully.
Some users find it runs small, especially in the chest area.
If you’re between sizes, it’s better to size up for a more comfortable fit.
Lansru 5/4mm Thermal Wetsuit
You’ll find this wetsuit a solid choice for cold water surfing, offering good insulation and comfort at a reasonable price point.
- Advanced 5mm SCR neoprene for superior warmth
- YKK front zipper for easy on/off
- Thickened knee pads for protection
- Sizing may run small
- Initial tight fit might feel uncomfortable
- Some users report durability issues
The Lansru 5/4mm wetsuit is designed to keep you warm during your cold water surfing sessions.
Its 5mm SCR neoprene construction provides excellent insulation, helping you stay in the water longer.
The material molds to your body, creating a thin layer that regulates your temperature effectively.
Comfort is a key feature of this wetsuit.
The neck and limbs use 4mm high elasticity CR neoprene with a seamless design, allowing for unrestricted movement.
You’ll appreciate the skin-friendly patch design that minimizes irritation, especially during long surf sessions.
Safety hasn’t been overlooked in this wetsuit’s design.
It offers protection against stings from sea creatures and cuts from reefs.
The thickened knee pads are a nice touch, safeguarding your knees during activities like surfing and paddleboarding.
As a bonus, the full-body coverage provides UPF 50+ sun protection.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right wetsuit for cold water surfing can make or break your session.
Let’s dive into the key factors you should consider.
Thickness
The thickness of your wetsuit is crucial for warmth.
Look for suits between 4-6mm thick for cold water.
Seams
Sealed and taped seams prevent water from seeping in.
This extra protection is worth the investment for icy conditions.
Fit
A snug fit is essential.
Too loose, and you’ll flush with cold water.
Too tight, and you’ll restrict movement.
Material
Neoprene quality matters.
Higher-grade neoprene offers better insulation and flexibility.
Features
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Hood | Protects your head from heat loss |
| Chest zip | Reduces water entry |
| Thermal lining | Adds extra warmth |
Flexibility
Balance warmth with flexibility.
Stiffer suits are warmer but can limit your paddling and pop-ups.
Test the suit’s stretch in the shoulders and arms.
You’ll thank yourself when you’re out catching waves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right wetsuit is crucial for cold water surfing.
Let’s address some common questions to help you find the perfect suit for chilly conditions.
What thickness should my wetsuit be for surfing in winter conditions?
For winter surfing, you’ll want a wetsuit between 5mm and 6mm thick.
The colder the water, the thicker your suit should be.
A 5/4mm suit is often suitable for temperatures around 50°F (10°C), while a 6/5/4mm might be necessary for even colder waters.
Do I need a special kind of wetsuit for surfing in cold temperatures?
Yes, you’ll need a wetsuit specifically designed for cold water.
Look for suits with sealed seams, a snug-fitting hood, and built-in booties.
These features help minimize water flushing and keep you warmer in frigid conditions.
What are the top-rated wetsuits for women who surf in frigid waters?
Popular choices for women include the Roxy Syncro Plus, O’Neill Psycho Tech, and Patagonia R4 Yulex.
These suits offer excellent flexibility, warmth, and durability.
They’re designed to fit a woman’s body shape for maximum comfort and performance.
Are there any thermal features to look for when choosing a wetsuit for cold water?
Look for wetsuits with thermal linings like Thermoflex, Firewall, or Thermal Smooth.
These materials add extra insulation without bulk.
Some suits also feature wind-resistant panels on the chest and back for added warmth.
How do I select a men’s wetsuit that’s suitable for icy water surfing?
Choose a suit with a chest zip entry for better insulation.
Brands like Xcel, Rip Curl, and Billabong offer great options.
Consider models with integrated hoods and reinforced knee pads for durability.
What do seasoned cold water surfers recommend for staying warm while catching waves?
Experienced surfers suggest layering with a thermal rash guard underneath your wetsuit.
They also recommend using neoprene gloves and boots to protect your extremities.
Some swear by a thin layer of Vaseline on exposed skin to reduce windchill.