Surf Talk Guru

Wetsuit thickness is indicated by the numbers included with the name of the suit, for example, the Xcel 4/3mm Infiniti. The first and largest number tells you the thickness, in millimeters, of the neoprene in the chest and groin area of the wetsuit, where you need to retain most of your heat. The second number describes the thickness of the neoprene in the arms and legs of the suit, where it needs to be a little thinner and more flexible for paddling and maneuvering on your board. If the wetsuit is described with three numbers, like 5/4/3mm, it’s 5mm in the chest and groin, 4mm in the arms, and 3mm in the legs.

Wetsuit manufacturers offer suit styles and thicknesses for every practicality. 1mm and 2/1mm springsuits offer a minimum amount of protection from weather and water conditions and are only good for tropical waters 78 degrees and up. 2mm and 3/2mm fullsuits are good for water temperatures 60 degrees and up. 4/3mm fullsuits are used for 52 degrees and up. 5/4mm can be used for 48 degree water, and 6/5mm for 40 degrees and up. The bulk of the thicker suits will add more warmth, but also weigh you down. Some people prefer thicker suits in warmer water to extend their sessions. Remember that a wetsuit, especially in wintery conditions, isn’t complete without a hood, booties, and gloves.