Winter Wetsuits and Winter Swimming Guide

Whether you're into winter surfing or cold water swimming, you're likely here because you want to visit the beach during the off-season when the water is cold. Winter is ideal for surfing due to less crowded surf spots. Additionally, cold water immersion can provide an exhilarating adrenaline rush. This guide is for those who want to make the most of winter by embracing colder waters.

We offer a wide range of surfing winter wetsuits and other excellent neoprene gear. Go directly to our full selection of Wetsuits & Neoprene Accessories, or get inspired by this guide.

We will start with the guide to winter wetsuits, but feel free to jump straight to the section about winter swimming.

Winter Wetsuit Buying Guide – What is the Best Winter Wetsuit for Surfing?

A thick winter wetsuit is essential when temperatures drop and the water turns cold. Winter wetsuits provide the necessary insulation to keep you comfortable while enjoying your favorite water sports. With the right winter wetsuit and good waves, why miss the chance to do what you love?

Choosing the best winter wetsuit is crucial for staying comfortable and safe in cold water, and we're here to help! Whether you're into winter surfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, or wakeboarding, follow our simple advice to extend your surfing season.

Continue reading for more detailed advice, or check out our picks of winter wetsuits.

WINTER WETSUIT THICKNESS AND DESIGN

When selecting a wetsuit for winter, several attributes are vital. The thickness of the neoprene material is key: The thicker the wetsuit, the better the insulation.

Typically, wetsuit thickness is denoted by two numbers: the first number represents the neoprene thickness in the torso area, and the second number represents the thickness in the arms and legs. The optimal thickness of a winter wetsuit is determined by the temperature. Here's a quick reference table for neoprene thickness and water temperature:

We have a few more tips for choosing winter wetsuits. When considering different models for winter use, keep the following in mind:

• Material: Many manufacturers use specific technologies to enhance the heating properties of their wetsuits, such as adding a foam core to the neoprene. Once you find a model with the appropriate thickness, refer to the product specifications to see if it has special insulation properties that might improve your winter surfing experience.
• Stitching: Neoprene materials are commonly stitched together with flatlock, glued stitches, or Glued Blind Stitches (GBS). Known for being waterproof and highly flexible, GBS is the superior option for winter wetsuits.
• Sealing: Some winter wetsuits feature taped or sealed seams for increased water resistance and durability.
• Zipper: Chest zips are excellent for winter wetsuits because they tend to allow minimal water ingress and offer great flexibility. Back zip wetsuits are easier to get in and out of, but they typically allow more water to enter and exit.
• Wetsuit Hood: You'll need a wetsuit hood in cold conditions, so consider whether a hooded wetsuit is ideal for you. A hooded wetsuit minimizes the likelihood of cold water flushing down your back through the neck opening. Alternatively, you might prefer the option to remove the hood, in which case a neoprene hood is what you need.
• Neoprene Gloves: Wetsuit gloves keep your hands warm and protected while surfing. Warm hands make it easier to handle your equipment. Choose a pair that fits snugly and has the right thickness for your needs. Generally, 5-finger gloves offer better dexterity but less insulation compared to mittens. Lobster-style gloves are a great middle ground, combining flexibility with strong insulation.
• Surf Boots: When winter paddleboarding or surfing, your feet will likely freeze. Neoprene shoes are essential! Choose a pair of neoprene boots with a grippy rubber sole that offers optimal warmth for the temperatures you'll surf in.
• Thermal Rash Vest: As autumn approaches, a thermal neoprene vest can be worn under your summer wetsuit to add an extra layer of insulation. This allows you to achieve the warmth equivalent to a 4/3 mm wetsuit for temperatures ranging from 10-14 °C.

Check out our comprehensive Wetsuit Buying Guide for in-depth knowledge on choosing the right wetsuit.

Cold Water Swimming

Cold water swimming, also known as winter swimming or ice swimming, is another fantastic way to enjoy the beach during winter. Just immerse yourself in the cold water and shake off all your worries! Winter swimming is known to have numerous health benefits for both mind and body, and the best part is that you don't need to invest a fortune in expensive gear to get started. A simple towel is all you need if you strip it down to the basics!

Cold water swimming gear is designed to enhance your comfort and safety. Consider the following accessories to improve your winter swimming experience:

• Neoprene Boots: Choose a pair with a rubber sole that grips firmly on the surface of the bathing jetty and ladder. They will also protect your feet from rocks. Neoprene boots double your comfort and reduce the risk of injury – a win/win for winter swimmers!
• Towel Ponchos: Also known as a changing poncho, this item is great to have throughout the year. When you get out of the water, a hooded towelling poncho offers wind protection while absorbing the moisture on your skin, further reducing wind chill. You can even take off your wet swimwear underneath it, using it as a changing poncho!
• Neoprene Gloves: Wetsuit gloves protect your hands from the cold and help you get a firm grip on the ladder when you are getting in and out of the water.
• Thermal Swim Caps: If you want to prevent heat loss or protect your ears while immersing yourself in cold water, a neoprene hood can prove to be a valuable piece of equipment.
• Dry Bags: Dry bags are useful all year round and come in handy for winter swimming. Gather your wet towel and swimming clothes in a dry bag, so you don’t have to worry about getting car seats or bus seats wet. If you browse our surf bags category, you will find many different dry bags to choose from.
• Other accessories: If you tend to get straight into the car after a dip, you may want to get your hands on a waterproof seat cover – and as it turns out, we also have other items among our surf accessories that are great for winter swimmers. Fancy a hot cup of coffee or tea after the cold shock? We recommend mugs: Always bring a mug when you visit the beach during winter!

Swimming in Cold Water Benefits

Cold water swimming is gaining popularity for many good reasons. People often mention the numerous possible health benefits associated with cold water immersion. Boosted immunity, improved mental health, and enhanced circulation are just a few of them.

The risks of winter swimming are also something you need to consider before diving in. Talk to your doctor before winter swimming if you have a heart condition or respiratory issues. The novice winter swimmer should join a group or community to learn all the best practices before diving in!

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