The ultimate wetsuit guide for women
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Time to read 9 min
Finding the perfect wetsuit is about more than just warmth—it’s about comfort, flexibility, and making sure you can move effortlessly in the water, no matter the conditions. Whether you’re chasing waves, diving deep, or paddling along the coast, your wetsuit is one of the most essential pieces of gear. But with so many options and technical features to consider, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming—especially if it’s your first. That’s why we’ve created this simple, no-nonsense guide to help you navigate the world of wetsuits, so you can find the perfect fit and get out there with confidence.
TABLE OF CONTENT
WHAT WETSUIT THICKNESS DO I NEED? NATURAL RUBBER WETSUIT THICKNESS WATER TEMPERATURE WETSUIT THICKNESS TABLE HOW SHOULD MY WETSUIT FIT? WHAT TYPE OF RUBBER SHOULD I CHOOSE FOR MY WETSUIT? RUBBER FOAM TYPES YULEX 2.0: AS GOOD AS THE OTHERS, BUT BETTER FOR THE PLANET WHAT TYPE OF WETSUIT ENTRY SYSTEM SHOULD I CHOOSE? ENTRY SYSTEMS WHAT TYPE OF SEAMS SHOULD I CHOOSE? DIFFERENT SEAM TECHNIQUES GBS IS THE WAY TO GO! HOW SHOULD I TAKE CARE OF MY WETSUIT? WETSUIT WASHING AND CARE INSTRUCTIONS
WHAT WETSUIT THICKNESS DO I NEED?
NATURAL RUBBER WETSUIT THICKNESS
Wetsuit thickness is all about balancing warmth and flexibility. Thicker neoprene traps more heat but has less stretch, while thinner sections allow for better movement.
You'll see wetsuit thickness listed in one, two, or three numbers—like 4/3mm or 5/4/3mm. The first number represents the thickness around your core, where warmth is key. The second (and sometimes third) number refers to the neoprene on your arms and legs, designed to keep you mobile while still insulated.
Need help deciding what thickness is right for your conditions? Check out our Wetsuit Thickness Guide for the full breakdown.
WATER TEMPERATURE
Stay warm, stay comfortable, and stay out there longer—because the only thing you should be catching is waves, not a chill. The right wetsuit depends on when and where you’re surfing, so start by checking the water temperature of your destination. Once you know the conditions, match your wetsuit to the elements with the guide below, ensuring you have the perfect balance of warmth and flexibility for your next session.
WETSUIT THICKNESS TABLE
| Water Temperature | Natural Rubber Thickness | Wetsuit Design |
|---|---|---|
| Above 22°C | N/A | Sun’s out, buns out! Try a surf bikini. Combine this with a rash guard to protect you from rash and the sun! Or go for a one-piece surf swimsuit. |
| 18-22°C | 0.5 - 2 mm | Thinnest option wetsuit. Ideal for sunny days. Super light and stretchy. |
| 12-18°C | 3/2 mm Full Suit | Most popular wetsuit and versatile option. Full coverage but a lot of flexibility to move. |
| 9-12°C | 4/3 mm Full Suit | For cool to colder days. Warmer than the 3/2 (obviously ;-)). And maybe put those booties on.. |
| 6-9°C | 5/4 mm Full Suit (+ Hood + Gloves + Boots) | For winter days. With thermal lining inside. Combine with hood, gloves and booties for extra warmth. |
| Under 6°C | 6/5 mm or 7 mm Full Suit + Hood + Gloves + Boots | A toasty wetsuit with thermal lining. A hood, boots and gloves are a must at these conditions. |
HOW SHOULD MY WETSUIT FIT?
FIT
Your wetsuit should feel like a second skin—snug, secure, and molded to your body. A little tightness at first is normal (and even necessary) because natural rubber stretches over time, especially after countless surf sessions.
The eco-friendlier natural rubber our suits have to offer is particularly flexible, offering a balance of comfort and performance. But don’t size up for instant comfort—what feels just right in the shop could end up too loose in the water. A well-fitted suit means better insulation, less flushing, and more warmth, so trust the snugness—it’ll adapt to you, not the other way around.
How to choose the right size?
Every brand differs in size due to different materials, panel cuts, sewing techniques and placement of zippers and pads. So you might need a different size than you are used to.
Wetsuit sizes are generally specified in US sizes (2, 4, 6, 8 etc). Specific sizes are available for taller and skinnier people. They're usually marked with the letter "T" next to the size. So size 6T is a medium-tall wetsuit.
Make use of our detailed size chart (located on each product page) and check our return policy in case you need a smaller or a bigger size.
Fitting tips
Finding the perfect fit for your suit is essential to ensure comfort, flexibility, and functionality. Whether you're gearing up for adventure or just want to make sure your new purchase works for you, these simple checks will help you get the best fit. Trust us, when everything feels just right, you'll be ready to move with confidence.
- Wrist and ankle coverage : Ensure there’s no gap, but avoid too tight a fit. You want warmth without restriction.
- Armpits and waist : Check that the suit fits snugly but still allows for full range of motion. Lift your arms and twist your torso—there should be no resistance.
- Freedom to move : Bend forward, squat, and stretch. You should move naturally, without feeling restricted.
- Excess material or bubbles : If you notice big folds or extra material, it’s a sign the suit isn’t sitting right. Small wrinkles are okay.
- Neck seal : The neck should feel secure, but not too tight. It should keep water out while allowing you to breathe easily.
- Breathing room : The suit should be tight but still comfortable to breathe in. You shouldn't feel constricted.
- Pad positioning : Double-check that knee and tummy pads sit comfortably and don’t bunch up.
- Ask for help : If in doubt, customer support is always there to help guide you through the process.
When you get it right, it’s a game-changer. Enjoy the fit.
WHAT TYPE OF RUBBER SHOULD I CHOOSE FOR MY WETSUIT?
Choosing the right type of neoprene for your suit can make all the difference in terms of performance, comfort, and sustainability. Whether you're after flexibility, warmth, or eco-friendly materials, the right neoprene will help you perform your best while supporting your values. Here’s a breakdown of your options.
RUBBER FOAM TYPES
| Regular Neoprene | Limestone Neoprene | Yulex2.0 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Flexible but less so than others. | More flexible, ideal for movement. | On par with limestone for comfort and flexibility. |
| Insulation | Moderate warmth. | Warmer and better insulative properties. | Offers great warmth and insulation. |
| Eco-Friendliness | Made from petroleum (not eco-friendly). | As harmful as petroleum-based rubber. | Yulex 2.0 is made from natural rubber, harvested sustainably, making it the best eco-friendly option available. |
| Durability | Average lifespan. | Can last a bit longer than conventional neoprene if taken care of properly. | Comparable to limestone, providing long-lasting performance. |
| Cost | More affordable, common in budget-friendly options. | Higher cost | A bit more of a premium cost, but worth it for the environmental impact and performance. |
YULEX 2.0: AS GOOD AS THE OTHERS, BUT BETTER FOR THE PLANET
Choose Yulex 2.0 if you want to make a real difference in reducing your carbon footprint. It’s just as comfortable, durable, and high-performing as other materials, but with a far lower environmental impact.
Discover our Yulex 2.0 wetsuits and join us in making waves for a more sustainable future.
WHAT TYPE OF WETSUIT ENTRY SYSTEM SHOULD I CHOOSE?
ENTRY SYSTEMS
| Wetsuit Entry Types | Zipper systems explained |
|---|---|
| Front Zip | Mainly used on thin wetsuits (2 mm or less). Easy entry. A shorter zip makes for less water leakage but also makes it harder to get into. |
| Back Zip | The traditional style option. It's a zipper in the back until the neck with a leash for easy opening and closing. Although very commonly used, it does give up some flexibility in the back due to the rigidness of the zipper. Popular for entry-level suits. For more comfort and performance, go for a Chest Zip. |
| Chest Zip | Probably the most common option for full wetsuits at the moment. This style offers more flexibility and better insulation, especially with wetsuits for colder conditions. |
| No Zip | Zip-free wetsuits increase flexibility because a zipper is rigid. However, it is more of a struggle to put your suit on and off. Also, the entry opening is larger, which can cause more water to enter your suit. |
Find out what fits best for you
For example, a front or back zip can work perfectly in warm conditions, especially with a thinner suit, where ease of entry is key. These options are convenient for quick get-ins, but remember—when it comes to colder water, you need to make sure the zippers are fully waterproof to minimize leakage and maximize warmth.
If flexibility is your priority, go for the smallest zippers, like a chest zip. This style allows for more freedom of movement and better insulation, making it ideal for colder conditions without sacrificing comfort.
Or, if you're after maximum flexibility, you could opt for a no-zip wetsuit. It offers incredible freedom and stretch, but there's a catch—getting it on and off can be quite a challenge. But hey, in the worst-case scenario, you can always wear it to bed for a cozy night’s rest!
WHAT TYPE OF SEAMS SHOULD I CHOOSE?
DIFFERENT SEAM TECHNIQUES
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Flatlock This method entails overlapping the edges of two panels and stitching through both. It makes a strong seam with some flex, but it also leaves a number of holes in the neoprene that can leak. This means flatlock seams are generally reserved for summer wetsuits and lower price-point suits. |
Glued and Blindstitched (GBS) Blindstitch is used on high-end and winter suits because it assures the least amount of leaking, the most flexibility, and the best durability of all the possibilities. The panels are glued together end-to-end before stitching, which results in a firm, watertight seam. |
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Taped Seams On the inside of the seams, stretchable tape is applied to make them more watertight and durable. This additional barrier keeps water out, commonly found in high-quality full wetsuits. |
Sealed Seams Liquid rubber is poured over the seams to fully waterproof them, sometimes on both the inside and outside. This option is the most waterproof but has the lowest flexibility, so it's usually not found on high-performance wetsuits. |
GBS IS THE WAY TO GO!
When it comes to choosing a wetsuit that offers the perfect balance of durability, warmth, and flexibility, Glued and Blindstitched (GBS) seams are the gold standard. This construction method ensures the least amount of water leakage while providing maximum comfort and long-lasting performance. For full wetsuits, the taped seams option takes things a step further by adding an extra layer of watertight protection.
If you’re looking for a wetsuit that delivers top-tier performance, check out some of our GBS WALLIEN wetsuits by clicking the button below.
HOW SHOULD I TAKE CARE OF MY WETSUIT?
WETSUIT WASHING AND CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Once you’ve made the investment in a wetsuit, proper care is essential to extend its life and ensure you get the most out of your purchase. Not only does this benefit you, but it also supports a more sustainable approach by reducing the need for replacements. Taking a little extra time and attention can keep your wetsuit performing like new for seasons to come. Here are some key tips for maintaining your wetsuit and increasing its longevity.
Never put your wetsuit in the washing machine. The agitation and heat from the machine can damage the neoprene, leading to a loss of flexibility and performance.
Avoid drying your wetsuit in direct sunlight. While it may be tempting to let it air dry quickly, UV rays can weaken the neoprene, causing it to dry out and lose its shape over time.
Rinse with cold, fresh water after each use. Saltwater and chlorine can deteriorate the material, so be sure to rinse your wetsuit with clean, cold water immediately after use. Avoid using any chemical cleaners or harsh detergents that could affect the fabric.
Be mindful of sharp objects. When storing your wetsuit or taking it off, ensure there are no sharp items around that could puncture or tear the material. Hang your suit properly, using a hanger designed for wetsuits, to avoid unnecessary stress on the fabric.
Protect your wetsuit from overuse. While it’s great to share your love of wetsuits, be cautious when lending yours out. Friends may love it so much they’ll want to "borrow" it frequently—but keep in mind that too much wear can affect its lifespan.
For more detailed guidance, check out our extensive wetsuit maintenance guide for everything you need to know about taking care of your suit. By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure that your wetsuit lasts longer, performs better, and remains a sustainable choice for years to come.
