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Water Sport Wetsuits

Unless you're living on Oahu or in the Caribbean, it's difficult to be a year-round water sports enthusiast without a wetsuit. Finding a water sport wetsuit that will let you play water polo in spring or go windsurfing in autumn requires some basic knowledge about wetsuit shape and construction. Here are some quick wetsuit tips for the water sports novice.

How water sports wetsuits work

Most wetsuits are made from a flexible and stretchable material called neoprene. The best water sport wetsuits also feature thin layers of low-density foam that give your body extra buoyancy in the water.

Contrary to what you might think, wetsuits keep you warm using water that gets into the suit. That doesn't mean you're waterlogged though. The pressure difference underwater causes a thin layer of water to enter the wetsuit. Your body heat warms the water, and the wetsuit keeps colder water out.

Choosing the right water sport wetsuit

Fit is extremely important when choosing a wetsuit. Wetsuits that aren't snug will let water in through the neck or armholes. A poorly fitting wetsuit is also very awkward and will greatly reduce your speed and mobility.

Another important factor is thickness. Water sport wetsuit thickness is measured in millimeters. Most wetsuits range from 2mm to 6mm. The general rule of thumb is that thickness increases protection but reduces flexibility.

Wearing different wetsuit styles can further increase your flexibility. The most flexible style of all is the short wetsuit, i.e. the shortie. The arm and leg lengths are equivalent to t-shirts and shorts. The shortie is a perfect wetsuit for water sports that require a lot of movement and are played in water temperatures 70 degrees or warmer.

The in between water sport wetsuit option is the three quarter length or springsuit. The arm and leg measurements are a little longer, and the neoprene is a bit thicker. This wetsuit is best in water temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees.

Finally, the fullsuit is the water sport wetsuit you want for water temperatures below 65 degrees. Full-length arms and legs provide maximum protection and thicker neoprene keeps you safe. (If you're planning on playing in waters close to 50 degrees, you'll need to use a wetsuit known as a semi-dry suit that has improved neck, wrist, and ankle seals.)