How to Fit a Wetsuit for Surfing

A proper fitting wetsuit significantly contributes to the enjoyment of surfing. Follow manufacturer's guidelines when fitting your neoprene rubber wetsuit. Fit can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer for the same size. Determining the right fit can be tricky. You want the suit to fit tightly, like a second skin, but if it is too tight it can restrict movement. The objective of the correct fit is to allow a thin layer of water between the wetsuit and your body, allowing your body to reach and maintain a comfortable temperature level.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the right wetsuit style for you by starting with the full zipper style, which has a zipper running the full length of the back of the suit. The half zipper style includes a zipper starting at the waist and runs up the middle of the back to the neck. The zipperless style, the warmest and most water-tight, is one that you step into at the neck area and work your legs and arms into at the appropriate openings.

    • 2

      Put socks on your feet and point toes down before putting the wet suit on to help your feet slide through the suit more easily.

    • 3

      Start pulling the suit up the body once your feet are through the leg holes. Pull the suit tightly as you go, especially in the crotch and waist area. This ensures a sufficient amount of suit remaining to properly fit over your chest area and shoulders.

    • 4

      Put your arms through the appropriate openings and work the fabric up the arm. Finish putting the suit on and zip it up. Lean forward and pull up on any bunched fabric around your body until you get a comfortable fit.

    • 5

      Grasp the material on the arms and pull it up and over your shoulders until it feels comfortable. This forces your shoulders back, giving a feeling of a straight back, which should add to the comfort of the fit.

    • 6

      Spend sufficient time putting the suit on to ensure you have given adequate attention to the proper fit over the entire body. Determine whether the suit conforms to your body shape.

    • 7

      Walk around in the suit for a couple of minutes. Breathe deeply to ensure there is no discomfort.