Which wetsuit?

Question

I only want to get one wetsuit but I don't know which one is better. A full or spring one. I will be surfing at different temperature waters so which one is better?

Answer 1

It's tough to say which wet suit would be best, because we don't know what temperature range you will be surfing in. Contrary to GoBrowns, I don't wear a wet suit at all when the water is 65 or better, unless the air temperature is really brisk, and even then, I usually just wear a vest.

There are good 3/2 full suits that will keep you warm in water temperatures down to the low to 50s, but that may be wet suit overkill when the water hits 60 or so.

A lot of what you need to know depends on YOUR personal preference, and the water temperatures where you will be surfing. If I had to pick a good "all purpose" suit, I would go with a good 3/2 spring suit, or a 3/2 short sleeve full suit. Both will easily get you through the mid 50s water temp in relative comfort, but not melt you when the sun gets hot and pushes the air temp into the 80s.

I have been surfing since '66, and I prefer warm water, but I have gotten through some really cold days in my 3/2 full suit and booties. Something else to note, a wet suit adds weight

and although its fairly slight, some surfers notice the difference. The less rubber the better, in my opinion.

Answer 2

It really depends on where you are going to surf. More info would make a recommendations easier. the thing I would consider is you might get a little warm in a suit that is thicker than you need, but you will be very cold in one that isn't thick enough.

Answer 3

Everyone has different tolerances for cold.  But, in general for water between 68 and 75 degrees, I'd go for a spring suit.  For water between 60 and 68, I'd recommend a full wetsuit.  Obviously, for water above 75 degree, you won't need a suit.

Answer 4

i would recomend a 3'2 wetsuit, thats what i have, and i can surf everywhere. the wetsuit i have keeps me warm in 55-68 degrees, if the water temp is higher then that, you dont need anything, but thats how i am, i dont get that cold while i surf. my advice to you is when you in the water thats a little bit colder then usuall is to not think about it and just surf. but anyway Good Luck.