Wetsuits
How do I find the right size wetsuit?
Finding the right size wetsuit can be quite a challenge. It should fit like a second skin, tightly wrapped around your body. After all, a wetsuit only works when the fit is right. On the other hand, you don't want it to be too restrictive or tight, and want to avoid excess material in areas like your armpits, lower back and behind your knees. But don’t worry, we offer suits for every body type and gladly help you choose your correct wetsuit size. This makes wetsuit shopping a lot easier than before. Keep your measurements at hand, have a look at our wetsuit sizes guide and order the right size without having to try it on in a sandy fitting room!
How to size a wetsuit?
As described above, it should fit tightly around the body. Only then, a thin layer of water can be trapped between the neoprene and your skin to keep your body warm. When the
suit is too large and the material piles up in certain areas, cold water seeps
in and runs through the suit (a phenomenon known as flushing). A wetsuit that is too small, however, is too tight and can restrict your freedom of movement in the water. This especially the case with winter wetsuits: the thicker the
neoprene, the less flexible it is. When you try on your suit, you must be able to bend down and touch your toes, and move your arms and shoulders freely.
Tip: Remember that in addition to wetsuit sizes, wetsuit thicknesses are also very important!
O’Neill wetsuit sizes explained
Rather than on height, O’Neill wetsuit sizes are based on body types. While some are tall and slim, others have broad shoulders and a big chest, and yet another one is a bit heavier. Therefore, we do not only offer small, medium, large and extra large wetsuits, but multiple variants of each. SS (small small) for example, is a great fit for shorter persons with a relatively big waist and chest, while ST (small tall) is suited for taller persons that have the same waist and chest circumference. The normal S is the best choice for people who fall in between.
How to take care of your wetsuit?
After every session, you have to wash your wetsuit in order to get it fresh and ready for the next one. Apart from eliminating sand, salt, and odors, regular care will make your wetsuit last much longer. The good news is that washing your wetsuit isn’t that hard. In this blog article, we will tell you how to wash and care for your wetsuit, so you can enjoy it for longer and spend more time in the water!
How to take care of your wetsuit
Even though there are basic guidelines that apply to all wetsuits, washing instructions may vary per manufacturer or wetsuit type. Therefore, you should always carefully read the instructions on the label of your wetsuit. In general you should follow the following instructions:
1. Taking off
Avoid taking off your wetsuit while standing on gravel, grass or other rough surfaces. Instead, use the O’Neill Wetsuit Change Mat or lay down a towel to stand on.
2. Cleaning
Rinse your wetsuit in fresh, cold water and turn inside-out to dry in the shade lying flat. It is critical NOT to wash your wetsuit with hot water, dry it in the sunlight, or leave it in the boot of your car for long periods of time. Heat contact with neoprene affects the fabric’s flexibility and durability.
3. Drying
At home, hang your wetsuit on a wide plastic hanger (not wire) in a well-ventilated area; this will prevent deterioration and creases, do not fold.
How to clean your wetsuit?
The best (and easiest) way to clean your wetsuit is to rinse it with cold or lukewarm water after each surf. Make sure to rinse it on both sides until all sand, salt and dirt are gone. You can either wash it in the shower or dunk it in a large bucket of water. This helps to keep the neoprene stretchy and the zippers running smoothly. After washing your wetsuit with cold water, hang it on a hanger to drip dry. Use a horizontal hanger and fold the suit in half over the waistline. Always keep the wetsuit out of direct sunlight to prevent UV and ozone damage.
How to put on a chest zip wetsuit?
Since it’s the most popular and common performance wetsuit, we will start to explain how to put on a chest zip wetsuit, also known as a front zip wetsuit or F.U.Z.E. When your wetsuit is pulled up to your waist, insert your right arm into the right sleeve. Then put your left arm in the left sleeve, and pull the entry flap over your head. Lastly, close the front zipper and attach the snap (if there is one).
Wondering how to put on a chest zip wetsuit? Check the video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Kp2HkQomHs
How to put on a zipless wetsuit?
Putting on a zipperless wetsuit is quite similar to putting on a front zip wetsuit. There are however some minor differences. The good news is that wetsuits without a zipper are usually made from very stretchy neoprene, which makes them easier to put on. If you have your suit pulled up to your waist, start working your left arm through the left sleeve and pull it over your shoulder. Pull the right side down and insert your right arm. Arrange all the panels around your neck in the right position and pull the zip-free gaiter over your head from right to left. Make sure the adjuster is loosened to make it easier.
Wondering how to put on a zipless wetsuit? Check the video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IBgXDxeCdc
