How to Repair a Wet Suit

Wetsuits with rare exception are made of neoprene, a specialized form of rubber fabric. These specialty suits are used for a variety of water sports such as surfing, kite-boarding and scuba diving. Due to the extreme nature of these sports, the suits are exposed to rigorous conditions and suits rip and tear. When this occurs the wetsuit needs to be repaired. Repair wetsuits yourself with a few basic tools and some neoprene patches.

Things You'll Need

  • Neoprene patches
  • Neoprene epoxy
  • Scissors or utility knife
  • Flat work surface
  • Hanger and drying line
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Instructions

    • 1

      Rinse off the suit and let it dry. Set the wetsuit down on a flat surface and locate the rip or tear.

    • 2

      Cut a patch from the scrap neoprene at least one inch larger than the damaged area on the wetsuit.

    • 3

      Smear the epoxy onto the back of the patch and on the area around the rip or tear. Pinch the rip together and place the patch onto the area. Press hard and hold for at least one minute, or until the epoxy sets enough to hold the repair.

    • 4

      Place the wetsuit onto a hanger and place on a drying line. Let the repair dry for 24 hours. The epoxy needs to time to dry and cure.

    • 5

      Put the wetsuit on and submerge the repaired area to test the patch. Wetsuits function by allowing a thin layer of water between the skin and fabric. The patch should not leak, though, so look for air bubbles rising out of the patch area. If present, re-glue the patch.