WHY DO SURFERS WEAR WETSUITS | BODY GLOVE - Body Glove

WHY DO SURFERS WEAR WETSUITS

September 14, 2022 2 min read

Body Glove | The Original Wetsuit Company

WHY DO SURFERS WEAR WETSUITS?

The primary purpose of a wetsuit is to provide warmth and body heat retention. Surfers, divers, and swimmers wear flexible neoprene wetsuits to allow them to stay comfortable in cold water for longer durations. In 1953 the founders of Body Glove, Bill and Bob Meistrell, developed the first commercially viable wetsuit with the primary purpose to allow surfers and divers to enjoy playing in cold water longer.

Today, the reasons and purposes surfers wear wetsuits reach beyond just the warming factor. The best wetsuits also offer excellent protection from the elements including sun protection, wind protection, and impact protection. Even in warm water situations, many surfers choose to wear a wetsuit to protect them in the event of a wipeout in which they may make physical contact with the ocean bottom – reef, rocks, etc., and sometimes even collisions with their own surfboard. In addition, a protective wetsuit can help assist surfers from feeling the effects of jelly fish, sea lice, and other ocean organisms that may otherwise deliver a painful, stinging sensation to bare skin.

Wetsuits come in a variety of coverages and thicknesses to meet the needs of surfers all over the world. For warmer climates, surfers prefer “shorty” wetsuits commonly called Spring Suits which generally feature neoprene thicknesses of 1mm to 2mm. In colder climates, surfers prefer to wear Full Suits, some with integrated hoods, in thicknesses ranging from 3mm to 7mm. Thick wetsuits are critical for surfing in cold water climates, particularly to help protect and prolong the onset of hypothermia, a life-threatening low body temperature condition.

NEOPRENE THICKNESS AND WARMTH RETENTION

Body Glove Wetsuit Styles

In recent years, with an increased focus on big wave surfing, wetsuits have evolved to include floatation panels, taking surfwear to a new level. These popular wetsuits are commonly called float suits. By adding foam panels in strategic areas, the wetsuit can double as a life vest, aiding the surfers rise to the surface in large surf.

When making the decision to purchase a wetsuit, it’s important to match the wetsuit’s coverage and thickness with the climate and temperature of water you will be predominantly surfing. As a new surfer, consider these benefits when choosing a wetsuit.

TOP 5 REASONS TO WEAR A WETSUIT:

  • Warmth & Body Heat Retention
  • Hypothermia Protection
  • Sun Protection
  • Wind Protection
  • Impact Protection
  • Jelly Fish / Sea Lice Protection

Whether a beginner or a pro, soak up the sun and hit the waves with the perfect wetsuit for all your adventures. Need more help? Explore our selection of wetsuits and surfboards designed for every moment in the water. Learn more about fit and style with our Wetsuit Guide.

Bikini Cut Spring Suits.



Also in Body Glove News

Martha Stewart Stuns in Body Glove's '91 Collection One-Piece in Sports Illustrated 2023 Swimsuit Issue 2023
Martha Stewart Stuns in Body Glove's '91 Collection One-Piece in Sports Illustrated 2023 Swimsuit Issue 2023
Martha Stewart Stuns in Body Glove's '91 Collection One-Piece in Sports Illustrated 2023 Swimsuit Issue 2023

May 15, 2023 3 min read

Martha Stewart, a long-time friend of Body Glove, steals the spotlight in the 2023 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, rocking a stunning one-piece swimsuit from the iconic '91 Collection.
WHAT TO WEAR UNDER YOUR WETSUIT
WHAT TO WEAR UNDER YOUR WETSUIT
WHAT TO WEAR UNDER YOUR WETSUIT

January 31, 2023 2 min read

Happy Holidays from the Body Glove Family
Happy Holidays from the Body Glove Family
Happy Holidays from the Body Glove Family

December 19, 2022 1 min read

Surf Like Santa

The Legend of the Surfing Santa lives on! Join the Holiday Spirit with a Limited Edition Body Glove 4mm Santa Wetsuit and bring tidings of comfort and joy to your local lineup.