Ireland has some of the most rewarding waves in Europe, but the water is never what you would call tropical. Whether you are paddling out on a crisp winter morning or catching a summer evening session, your wetsuit decides how long you can stay in the water and how much you enjoy it. A suit that is too thin, too loose or badly made will leave you cold and tired long before the waves run out. Here is what to look for when choosing one.
Understanding Wetsuit Thickness
Wetsuits are described by the thickness of their neoprene in millimetres, usually written as two or three numbers, for example 4/3 or 5/4/3. The first number is the thickness around the torso, where you need the most warmth. The smaller numbers refer to the arms and legs, where thinner neoprene gives you more freedom to paddle.
As a general guide for Irish waters:
- Winter: many surfers wear a 5/4 or 5/4/3 suit, often with boots, gloves and a hood.
- Spring and autumn: a 4/3 suit is a common choice, sometimes with boots on colder days.
- Summer: a 4/3 or a 3/2 suit is usually enough, depending on how much you feel the cold.
Everyone is different, so think about how long your sessions are and how quickly you get cold. If you are unsure, it is better to go slightly warmer than you think you need.
Fit Matters More Than Anything
A warm wetsuit only works if it fits properly. The suit should feel snug all over without restricting your breathing or movement. Cold water flushing in through gaps at the neck, wrists, ankles or lower back is what makes you cold, not the water outside the suit.
When trying a wetsuit on, check that:
- There are no loose folds or air pockets around the lower back, armpits or knees
- The neck seal is close but comfortable
- You can raise your arms above your head and move as if paddling without strain
- The legs and arms end at the right place, not halfway up your shin or forearm
Wetsuits loosen slightly once they are wet, so a suit that feels a little tight in the shop is usually right.
Seams, Zips and Construction
How a wetsuit is put together has a big effect on how warm it is. For colder water, look for glued and blind-stitched seams, which let far less water through than flatlock stitching. Some suits also have taped seams on the inside for extra protection.
There are two main zip styles:
- Back zip: easy to get in and out of, which is useful for beginners.
- Chest zip: usually lets in less water and gives more flexibility across the back, but takes a bit more practice to put on.
Whatever you choose, look after it. Rinse your wetsuit in fresh water after every surf, dry it inside out away from direct sunlight and hang it over a thick hanger or folded over a rail rather than by the shoulders.
Do Not Forget the Accessories
In the colder months, your hands, feet and head lose heat fast. Neoprene boots keep your feet warm and protect them on rocky reefs and cold sand. Gloves help you keep your grip and feeling in your fingers, while a hood makes a huge difference on windy days and helps keep cold water out of your ears. You can find suits and accessories in our wetsuits range, and boots in our water shoes and socks section.
With the right suit, there is no need to hang up your board when the weather turns. Some of the best days at the surf spots in Ireland come in the colder months, so wrap up well and enjoy them.