How to Stop Chafing From a Wetsuit

Your wetsuit may chafe you if you use it often or if it is poorly manufactured. Many surfers experience this problem because of the regular need to paddle with their arms. The fabric along the armpits can rub against the sensitive flesh and cause it to turn red and irritated. Chafing can get to the point where it makes wearing the wetsuit too painful, but remedies are available to keep you comfortable in your wetsuit.

Things You'll Need

  • Anti-chafing lotion
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Instructions

    • 1

      Buy a wetsuit that fits you. In a too-tight suit, the fabric can rub up against your skin, which can be extremely uncomfortable. A larger suit has more room for you to move.

    • 2

      Purchase a suit that has smooth seams. A well-tailored suit won't have seams that come out from the inside of the suit and rub against your skin. In a poorly tailored suit, you'll find these seams around the hip, crotch and shoulder areas.

    • 3

      Apply an anti-chafing lotion to the affected area before you put on the wetsuit. This won't likely remedy the problem if the suit is too small or poorly manufactured, but it will help.

    • 4

      Take the wetsuit off as soon as you are out of the water. Walking in the wetsuit without lubrication from water can cause chafing.

    • 5

      Hose the wetsuit off after you are finished using it. This will get rid of any sediment, such as salt, that adheres to the wetsuit and rubs against your skin.