Guide to Winter Wetsuits and Cold Water Swimming

If you have a passion for winter surfing or cold water swimming and seek to enjoy the beach during the chilly off-season, your interest likely brought you here. Winter months are excellent for surfing as surf locations are less crowded. Moreover, immersing yourself in cold water can offer a thrilling adrenaline boost. This guide is designed for those who wish to embrace colder waters and fully enjoy the winter.

Our range includes a wide variety of winter wetsuits for surfing, along with other exceptional neoprene gear. You can browse through our extensive collection of Wetsuits & Neoprene Accessories, or find inspiration in this guide.

We begin with our winter wetsuit guide, though you can skip ahead to the winter swimming section if you prefer.

Guide to Selecting a Winter Wetsuit – Discover the Ideal Option for Surfing

A thick wetsuit is essential when temperatures drop and waters get colder. Winter wetsuits are designed to provide ample insulation, ensuring you stay comfortable while enjoying your favourite water activities. With a suitable wetsuit and good waves, why miss out on your passion during the winter?

Finding the optimal winter wetsuit is vital for remaining comfortable and secure in cold water, and we are here to assist! Whether you’re keen on surfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, or wakeboarding during the winter, adhere to our straightforward guidance to extend your surfing season.

For further detailed guidance, keep reading, or view our selection of winter wetsuits.

THICKNESS AND DESIGN OF WINTER WETSUITS

Several key attributes are important when selecting a wetsuit for winter. Unsurprisingly, the thickness of the neoprene is crucial: The thicker it is, the better the insulation offered.

The thickness of a wetsuit is generally indicated by two numbers: the first for the torso area and the second number for the arms and legs. Optimal winter wetsuit thickness depends on water temperature. Here is a quick reference table for neoprene thickness and corresponding water temperatures:

Here are additional tips when considering winter wetsuits. When reviewing different wetsuit models for winter use, it's wise to take the following into account:

• Material: Many brands employ specific technologies to enhance warmth in their wetsuits. One example is incorporating a foam core within the neoprene. Once you identify an appropriately thick model, check whether it provides specialised insulation through its specifications, enriching your winter surfing.
• Stitching: Neoprene materials are commonly sewn using flatlock, glued stitches, or Glued Blind Stitches (GBS). GBS is renowned for being waterproof and flexible, making it a top choice for winter wetsuits.
• Sealing: Some winter wetsuits come with taped or sealed seams to increase water resistance and longevity.
• Zipper: Chest zips on winter wetsuits are beneficial for minimal water penetration and enhanced flexibility. While back zip wetsuits are simpler to put on and remove, they allow more water in and out.
• Wetsuit Hood: A wetsuit hood is vital when temperatures drop, helping prevent cold water from entering through the neck. However, if you prefer a removable option, a neoprene hood will suffice.
• Neoprene Gloves: To keep hands warm and protected while surfing, use wetsuit gloves. It is easier handling gear with warm hands than frozen ones. For shape, 5-finger gloves offer greater dexterity but less insulation compared to mittens, while lobster-style gloves balance flexibility and insulation effectively.
• Surf Boots: Feet protection is crucial for winter paddleboarding or surfing. Neoprene shoes are indispensable! Choose boots with a grippy rubber sole, ensuring warmth for the conditions expected.
• Thermal Rash Vest: An ideal transition from summer to winter wetsuits involves a thermal vest, which layers under a summer wetsuit for added insulation. Achieve the equivalent warmth of a 4/3 mm wetsuit for temperatures between 10-14 °C this way.

For more comprehensive insights into wetsuit selection, consult our detailed Wetsuit Buying Guide.

Swimming in Cold Water

Also referred to as winter or ice swimming, cold water swimming is a great way to relive stress at the beach during colder months. Let the cold water take your worries away! Winter swimming is known for numerous mental and physical health benefits — and the best part is, costly gear isn’t necessary to dive in. A simple towel is all it takes if simplicity is your aim!

Cold water swimming gear enhances comfort and ensures safety. Consider these accessories to elevate your winter swimming experience:

• Neoprene Boots: Choose boots with a firm rubber grip on jetty surfaces and ladders. They prevent foot injuries from rocks as well. Neoprene boosts comfort and minimises injury risk – an ideal situation for winter swimmers!
• Towel Ponchos: Featuring a hood, the towels offer wind protection and dry your skin, lessening wind chills after a swim. Change wet swimwear underneath for ease.
• Neoprene Gloves: Helpful in protecting hands from cold, gloves also facilitate a solid grip on the ladder while entering/exiting the water.
• Thermal Swim Caps: To minimise heat loss or guard ears while in cold water, a neoprene hood is recommended.
• Dry Bags: Handy throughout the year, dry bags make valuable companions in winter swimming. Store wet towels and swimwear in one, sparing car and bus seats from dampness. Check our surf bags section for diverse options.
• Other accessories: Planning a swift trip to the car post-swim? A waterproof seat cover is useful – amongst other surf accessories suited for winter swimmers. Fancy a warm beverage after the chill? Bring a mug along!

Benefits of Cold Water Swimming

Cold water swimming's growing popularity has several valid reasons. Reports commonly associate numerous health benefits with immersion in icy waters, including enhanced immunity, better mental well-being, and improved circulation.

However, winter swimming risks also warrant consideration before taking the plunge. If heart or respiratory issues exist, consult a doctor first. Newcomers should join a group to gain insights into best practices before diving!

Follow the advice shared here to prepare well, and enjoy your time in cold waters!