For the Southeast coast US, do I need a wetsuit for surfing when the water temp is 70 degrees? Max 30 minutes

Question

Outgrew my suit and it's May 3rd. S.C coast.

Answer 1

I was just down near florida surfing and the water was around 77 degrees and it was perfect you didnt need a wet suit in my opinion but at 70 I guess its your preference if you get cold easily or not I would bring it with you and descide then

Answer 2

No. I spent some time in early March in SC and the water was in the mid 50's, so it was cool enough for my 4/3 suit and booties. My grand kids (little kids are rugged when they want to surf and boogie board) were all in shorties, but they were in and out of the water. With warm air temps, I'm in my spring suit once the water gets around 60. In 70 degree water, its a rash guard and board shorts (unless the air temp is chilly). We are talking about surfing, right, not diving. You will not have a significant enough heat loss in 70 degree water to need anything more than a speedo!

I have been surfing for 42 years, and I notice some folks wearing wetsuits all summer long (70 degree water, 80 degree air) and I just can't figure it out. Come on up and surf in New jersey in January. I won't be wearing any rubber down there in SC until around November. Depending on what town you are in, I know a really great surf shop in SC, where you could get hooked up with a new suit at a reasonable price. Have fun !

Answer 3

It really depends on your preference and ability to handle the cold. Some people wear a spring suit (short sleeves & legs) when it is that temp but personally, once the water temp hits about 68 it's only boardshorts for me.  I use a 3/2 fullsuit until then.

If you outgrew your suit, you will be needing one for next winter.  Now is the time to get some good deals on last year's models.  Hit up the local surf shops and ask when wetsuits will be going on sale.  Not sure where you are in SC but I'm in Charleston.  McKevlins on Folly Beach is definitely the best surfshop around.  Those guys will be able to help you out.