Australia is a lovely country to go surf, but not everyone stays here on their holiday. There are a few very fine spots around the world where this sport is even more fun. The climate and water temperature of those faraway places should determine the composition of your wetsuit. You'll find numerous mens and ladies wetsuits for sale at Powerhouse Surf in Perth. Which one should you choose?
If you are an experienced surfer, you'll know exactly what to buy for familiar waters. However, if you want to discover yet unknown surf paradises, then thin rash vests and thermal tops may not be enough. Other factors will decide whether you'll be well-protected, so you can wholeheartedly enjoy the exciting new waters, or whether you'll return to Oz with a nasty cold.
Choosing mens and womens wetsuits for sale: single-lined or double-lined
Since the invention of the wetsuit in the early fifties, foamed neoprene is the material of choice. Only, nowadays both mens and womens wetsuits for sale at Powerhouse Surf are made with either single-lined and double-lined neoprene. Many surfers prefer double-lined, claiming the material is more durable. However, a top-quality SL may be more durable than a cheap DL. Besides, most wetsuits are double-lined anyway. Only steamers are usually manufactured single-lined.
More important than the durability of our mens wetsuits for sale is the so-called windchill. More wind means that the felt air temperature is colder, but not only the wind influences how you experience the temperature, wet surfaces do so too. A single-lined neoprene suit has the advantage then since it repels the water better than a double-lined suit. In DL you're better protected against the sun's ultraviolet rays, and it's easier to slip into the suit.
3/2 or 4/3?
Not only the number of layers matters once you're in the water. The thickness and density of the material are important too. In waters of moderate temperature, a 4/3 wetsuit will do nicely. The most sensitive parts of your body, your chest and kidneys, are then protected by 4 millimetres of neoprene. The moving parts of your body will still be getting 3 millimetres.
Again, a high-quality 3/2 will easily outdo a 4/3 of a cheaper brand, especially if you consider that top brands go far to make their wetsuits as waterproof and insulated as possible.
What about the seams?
A wetsuit's seams can be sewn, glued or both. The disadvantage of sewing is that the water can seep inside through minuscule holes. To avoid this, glue is applied first, and the wetsuit is blind-stitched. Some brands will ban the use of needle and thread entirely, and only use glue. These techniques have their pros and cons. Check a wetsuit well before buying; ensure that at least the armholes and knees are seamless.
Which size?
Your wetsuit should fit you like a second skin, so try as many sizes as you need. Bend through the knees, walk (and jump) around, wave your arms, and stretch your neck. All comfy? Grab that wetsuit!
An extra tip: before you don your wetsuit, always check if your finger- and toenails are short enough.
Do you want more tips? Don't hesitate to ask at Powerhouse Surf. We're always happy to help fellow-surfers. With our advice, you'll be adequately equipped, and ready to brave even the coldest waters.