What are the different types of Wetuits?

When you need to keep warmer in the water no matter the season, a wetsuit will provide the protection you need...

Wetsuits are made from a variety of thickness Neoprene (rubber) ranging from 0.5mm to 7mm thick  It comes as nylon lined rubber which is easier to pull on or non lined (smoothskin rubber) which is harder to get on but repels the wind and allows water to roll off better.  Both have their advantages. 

The thickness you buy will vary on both your purpose for wearing a wetsuit and the water temperature you need protection from.

Types of Wetsuits:

Spring Suit (shorty wetsuit)  

2mm thickness of rubber.  This may come as short sleeve or long sleeve and cover from the neck to just above the knees. The zipper is generally at the back which makes it easy to pull on and off by yourself.  Good choice of wetsuit for swimming, snorkelling, surfing and general water activity where the water temperature is not too cold. Brands carried Quiksilver, Aquasport, Roxy.

Short John 

2mm  thickness rubber.  The same as a spring suit but with a singlet style upper body with cut off sleeves.

Steamer (Full length wetsuit)  

2mm - 5mm thickness rubber.  Most popular worn as 2/3mm thickness rubber.  This wetsuit covers your body from neck to ankles.  A full suit is worn during the winter months or those needing warmth and protection for longer stints in the water. Snorkelling and spearfishing wetsuits require extra padding in the knees, elbows and chest areas.  Brands carried Quiksilver, Aquasport, Cressi sub, Omer, Ocean Hunter, Mares, Rob Allen.

Spearfishing Wetsuit (One piece full wetsuit or 2 piece jacket and pants)

1.5mm - 5mm thickness rubber.  Usually camo print in design as to not be seen underwater.  There is a variety of wetsuits availble for spearfishing including Open cell and Closed cell neoprene.  Both one piece and 2 piece options.  2 piece offers comfort and extra warmth with an included hood attached.  One piece wetsuit is perfect for beginners or just starting out on a budget.

Closed cell neoprene wetsuits are easy tro put on and are tough.  They consist of nylon fabric glued to thje the rubber both on the inside and outside of the wetsuit.  Perfect for those wanting ease of getting in and out of a wetsuit.

Open Cell neprene are extremely warm for those wanting to upgrade their wetsuit.  The inside of the wetsuit rubber has been left uncovered (open rubber)  The seal is better against the skin giving you a warmer wetsuit.  Usually sold in a 2 piece hooded jacket and longjohn (pants) combination.  A lubricant is best to get in and out of wetsuit. 

Wetsuit shorts 

2mm thickness.  Great for waterski, swimming.

Wetsuit top  

Ranges 0.5 mm - 2mm thickness.  Perfect for those needing warmth in the upper body only.  Keep the chest, back and kidneys warm without as much restriction in the water.  A wetsuit top can also be worn as an extra layer under your full wetsuit.   These wetsuit tops are also available with an attached hood for Scuba divers and spearfishman. This prevents water from trickling down the neck allowing a more sealed upper body.

Wetsuit Hood 

2mm - 5mm thickness.  When most of your body heat escapes from  the head, it makes sense to wear a wetsuit hood and trap the heat in.  It feels like putting a blanket over your entire body.  The difference of wearing a wetsuit hood in the water is amazing. Can be used for any water activity and available as a hood only with or without a neck seal or attached to your full wetsuit or wetsuit top.

Scuba Diving Wetsuit  

5mm - 7mm thickness.  A Scuba Diving wetsuit comes as either a one piece or 2 piece wetsuit.  A long john (pants) and a seperate jacket style provides 2 layers of warmth and protection over the upper body.  A dry  suit is sometimes used in cases of extreme cold and deep water.   Brands carried are Tusa, Mares, Scubapro, Cressi Sub.

Waterski Buoyancy Wetsuit 

3mm thickness or 5mm thickness depending on your requirements.  Barefoot suits are 5mm thick.  Waterskiing wetsuits have a built in bouyancy in the upper body.  This acts as floatation in the same way a life jacket does for water sports in rivers.  Waterskiing, wakeboarding, tube riding. Brands carried Wavelength, Sands, KGB, Williams.

HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR WETSUIT

Be sure to use wetsuit lubricant if needed before putting on your suit and mixing it with water. This will increase the life span of the suit and reduce chances of tearing

After a dive, ensure you clean your suit with wetsuit shampoo that has low irritants and harmful chemicals that may destroy the neoprene. Avoid using normal shampoos and conditioners as they tend to eat away at the neoprene

After cleaning and hosing down the suit, make sure you store it in a dry and cool place away from any sunlight and hang it. Avoid storing it in a garage or shed where excessive temperatures and car smoke fumes can cause serious damage. (Do Not Fold your suit in storage as it may cause permanent creases)

At Wilderness Sean' Ski we can fit you out in any wetsuit for any sport or activity.  The trained experts in store can advise you on the correct wetsuit for your purpose. 

Wetsuit Sale now on

Wetsuit Size Chart