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Differences Between Surfing and Swimming Wetsuits

Differences Between Surfing and Swimming Wetsuits

Thickness Paddling out and sitting on a board in cold water necessitates a wetsuit. Surfing wetsuits help surfers stay warm by using different thicknesses of neoprene for corresponding temperatures of water. For open water swimmers, the temperature is less of importance as they are constantly moving and have a high body temperature. Swimming wetsuits often have multiple panels of varying thicknesses. Swimming wetsuits have very thin layers in the armpits to allow for continual rotation. Sometimes the cuffs and sleeves of the arms and legs are designed for easy removal since triathletes need to be able to take of wetsuits as quickly as possible during transitions.

Speed Open water swimming is all about speed, and swimming wetsuits are designed for optimal hydrodynamics. Swimming wetsuits have thicker neoprene over the hips so the body lies higher in the water, reducing drag. Another way swimming wetsuits reduce drag is often by being made from smooth skin neoprene which is a much smoother finish than thicker neoprene used in wetsuits. Beware of surfing in a swimming wetsuit because it’s not meant to have a wide stance like on a surfboard!

Styles Surfing wetsuits come in a wide variety of styles to fit differences in water temperature, from full length to vests. Swimming wetsuits are usually full suits or sleeveless, again to help create buoyancy and reduce drag. Wetsuits aren’t only for wearing in the ocean. If looking to stay warm in a pool for swimming or water aerobics, we recommend trying our wetsuit jackets, vests, or spring suits. Note of caution: while rashguards are great for surfing, they’re not always a great choice for swimming. Make sure your rashguard fits tightly to avoid chafing when swimming for extended periods of time.