Putting on a wetsuit is not the easiest task in the world. There are wetsuits in different shapes, sizes and thicknesses, which means that how you put them on can differ greatly per wetsuit. For example, there are sturdy, thick wetsuits for kite surfing, for example, and thin, fragile wetsuits for swimming.
With both types, it is important that you put on the suit correctly to prevent the functions from being lost. We are therefore happy to tell you more about putting on a wetsuit and give you some useful tips on how to do this best.
What should you pay attention to when putting on a wetsuit?
There are a number of things that you should pay attention to when putting on a wetsuit. It is possible that you cannot or hardly wear a wetsuit due to certain factors. This is why it is important to pay attention to this.
Do you find out while putting on the wetsuit that it is too small or too tight? Then it can become more difficult to put on your wetsuit. In this case it is not the technique, but rather the fact that your wetsuit is too small.
For example, do you notice that your breathing is obstructed or your blood flow is restricted (in some places)? Then your suit is probably too small. It is then advisable to purchase a larger suit.
Don't assume that your wetsuit will adjust to your body over time if it is too small. A wetsuit is made of neoprene rubber, which means that the suit will always keep the same shape and will hardly adapt . Therefore, choose one or two sizes larger if you think your current wetsuit is too small.
The main function of a wetsuit is to keep your body warm by stopping the water circulation. If you have a suit that is too tight? Then there may be an opening at your back. As a result, the function of the suit will be lost, as water can simply enter the suit in this case.
Putting on a wetsuit: find the right suit
As you may have already heard, it is important that your wetsuit fits well if you want to put it on. This is the reason why you have to pay a lot of attention to certain things to find a suitable wetsuit.
Subsequently, putting on a wetsuit will become easier over time, but first we will look for a suitable wetsuit.
Fit and sizing
If you take a look at our webshop you will see that we offer various types of wetsuits from different brands. The fit and sizes can therefore differ per type and brand. It is therefore essential to calmly look at the fit and possibly also to take a look at the size chart.
Did you get the size chart? Always check the height and weight of the wetsuit first. Next, it is important to also look at the chest measurement, as this determines whether the wetsuit is too loose or too tight.
A chest size that is too narrow can restrict your breathing and freedom of movement. This will not benefit your performance in the water.
How should my wetsuit fit?
Do you want to put on your wetsuit? Then it is essential that your wetsuit fits well . You can also see a wetsuit as a second skin in the water that protects you against the cold. However, the wetsuit must fit well and not be too tight to prevent the functions of the suit from being lost.
So always choose a wetsuit with the right fit and size , so that you are sufficiently protected and still experience enough freedom of movement. This way you will be able to move better through the water and you will not even realize that you are wearing a wetsuit.
Do you have a full suit with long sleeves and legs? Then the sleeves should reach your wrists and the legs should reach the top of your ankle bone.
It is also good to know that the neoprene of your suit will loosen up as soon as you enter the water. The fabric therefore creates a 'memory', as it were, which makes the wetsuit fit better over time.
What if I chose the wrong size?
Putting on a wetsuit can be a lot more difficult, or even easier, if you have chosen the wrong size. In addition, the wrong size can be at the expense of the comfort you experience.
- Have you chosen not to wear anything under your wetsuit? Then it is possible that a wetsuit that is too small will rub against your body. It is therefore certainly advisable to wear undergarments under your wetsuit, depending on what you want to do with it. In addition, a wetsuit that is too small will not only feel uncomfortable, but will also break down more quickly. This is because the seams are tight and the neoprene is thinner, which increases the risk of tearing.
On the other hand, it may also be that you have opted for a wetsuit that is too large. Putting on a wetsuit that is too big is very easy, but during swimming you will notice that the water leakage system no longer functions. This way, cold water will constantly run into the suit and the hot water will be drained. You might as well go out on the water without a wetsuit.
Are you still looking for a suitable wetsuit in the right size? Then take a look at our webshop and find the suit that suits you. For questions or personal advice, you can always contact our customer service
What if I fall exactly in between two sizes?
Have you looked at the size chart? But do you come to the conclusion that you actually fall just in between two sizes? Then it is wise to first look at a wetsuit from another brand . The sizes and fits can differ greatly per brand.
Do you seem to be in between two sizes? Then it might be a smart choice to order two different sizes . Look mainly at the height and weight of the suit and check whether the chest measurements are correct when putting on.
Never choose a wetsuit that is a bit on the spacious side , as the suit will become a little looser in the water. It is also smart to take weight fluctuations into account if you choose a wetsuit that is reasonably tight. Putting on a wetsuit that is too tight can be difficult if you have a bad shoulder or if you are not that flexible with your upper body.
How should you put on a wetsuit?
Now that you know more about what to look for when choosing a wetsuit, we have come to the most important part: putting on the wetsuit. The first time it can be quite difficult to put on a wetsuit. However, we have a number of handy ways for you to make this easier and faster.
- Enter the water first: to make it easier to put on your wetsuit, you can choose to go into the water with your wetsuit. You then put on the suit in the water, whereby the water between the skin and the suit ensures less friction. This way you can put on your wetsuit without any effort;
- Putting on inside out: an easy way to put on your wetsuit is the 'inside out way'. Turn the entire wetsuit inside out and place one foot up to your ankle inside the suit. Then you roll up the wetsuit up to your torso and then repeat this with your other leg. Next are the same steps for your torso and arms;
- Diving clothes as undergarments : shouldn't most ways help? Then you can choose to put on diving clothes under your wetsuit. This not only makes it easier to put on the wetsuit, but also provides extra protection against, for example, jellyfish and coral;
- The trick with the plastic bag: nowadays the smartest ways to put on your wetsuit are invented. A good example of this is the plastic bag method. You can use a plastic shopping bag or sandwich bag for this. Place your foot in the plastic bag and step into the wetsuit. Then remove your foot from the plastic bag and repeat with your other foot and your arms;
- Use of lubricant: from now on, different types of aids have also been developed, including water-based lubricant. Lubricate the tightest parts with the lubricant and you will be able to put on the wetsuit effortlessly.
Take off wet suit
In addition to putting on a wetsuit, taking it off is of course just as important. We can already tell you that it is really about a lot of practice . The more you do it, the easier it gets. However, we can give you a number of tips to make it easier and faster.
As soon as you get out of the water , open the zipper of the wetsuit and let some water run into the suit . You can then take off the wetsuit quickly and easily, as there is hardly any friction. First take out your arms and pull the suit up to your waist.
Then place your hands on the inside of the suit by your hips and pull them down. Voilà your wetsuit is out and ready to be packed.
Buy a wetsuit at Watersports4fun!
Now that you know more about putting on a wetsuit, you may still be looking for a wetsuit. Take a look at our webshop where you will find various models and types of wetsuits from different brands.
Pay close attention to the points of attention that we have mentioned to prevent you from not or hardly getting the wetsuit on. A well-fitting wetsuit is essential and can prevent many problems.
Do you need help choosing a suitable wetsuit? Please contact our customer service for personal advice. We are ready for you and can be reached by email, telephone and live chat.