Wetsuit sizing?

Question

I am interested in getting a wetsuit for the colder months and some of the beginning of summer. I do bodyboarding.

This is what I am looking at: http://www.jackssurfboards.com/detail.aspx?ID=4097

What size chart can I look at so i know whats for what size? Also what does 4/3 mean / do?

Answer 1

i believe a 4/3 means the thickness of the suit. which is good for the winters and spring.

it also depends on what body of water you surf in. (north pacific, south pacific, and so on)

call up a local surf shop, they will have all the answers for you.

Answer 2

personally, i really like o'neill wetsuits. billabong makes some good suits, but if you want to spend that much i suggest the o'neill psycho I which is about $290 (the psycho II is really nice too but close to $400). i have the psycho I and really like how it has exterior sealed seams as well as interior sealed seams in the chest area. it also has the z.e.n. closure in the back so that water that comes in through the zipper never reaches your body; it is channelled right out so it keeps you warmer. it's really lightweight too. it comes in 3/2 and 4/3.

i'd suggest trying on a suit before buying if it's possible. all companies sizes are a little different, and a wetsuit just won't work if it's too big or too small. it should be snug, but not so much that you have difficulties breathing or moving.

4/3 (or 3/2 or 5/4, etc.) refer to the thickness of the suit. the 4 means it is 4mm thick in the chest area and 3 means 3mm thick in the arms and legs. thicker suits will keep you warmer but loose some flexibility.

Answer 3

4/3 and 3/2 are thicknesses.  First number is the torso, second is the extremities (thickness in mm).  For sizing, once you figure out which brand you are interested in go to their website and look at their sizing chart.  I am a FIRM believer for trying them on for yourself though.  The different brands fit differently, have different seam patterns and different entry systems.