Rash vest or wetsuit? -summer surfing in southern california?

Question

I'm going to Huntington beach in southern California this summer and it'll be quite a change from surfing in the wild north sea around aberdeen. Do i need a summer wetsuit or just a rash vest and shorts for summer surfing in CA?

Answer 1

well, when I lived in california, I only saw people in wetsuits. regretibly, I never learned to surf.

Answer 2

The water in California never gets all that warm, all summer. But, especially for a cold water surfer, you should be fine in a rash guard & board shorts. When you refer to vest, I don't know if you mean a neoprene, wetsuit vest, but if you do, remember that air temperature will be fairly warm, and on a day without much wind, you'll be too hot (at least by my standards). I am a cold water surfer too, but with H20 temps above 17 or 18, I am fine without any 'rubber' at all. Have a good trip, if you stop on the east coast, we really do have some great surf spots (and warmer summer water - the Gulf Stream does it).

Answer 3

At least a summer suit but pay attention to the jellies out there, there are big purple ones when the water is warm that have quite a sting.

Answer 4

you already asked this

Answer 5

I know that sunny California seems to have the sun however the northern Pacific can be quite cold so i suggest using a 3/2 mm wetsuit or a neoprene top when the water temp is over 20