Winter Wetsuits and Guide to Cold Water Swimming

If you're interested in winter surfing or cold water swimming, chances are you're here because you want to enjoy the beach during the off-season when the water is chilly. Winter presents an ideal opportunity for surfing since the surf spots are not as congested. Simultaneously, cold water immersion itself can provide an exhilarating adrenaline rush. This guide is designed for those who wish to maximise their winter experience by embracing the colder waters.

We provide an extensive range of winter wetsuits for surfing along with other excellent neoprene gear. Head directly to our complete collection of Wetsuits & Neoprene Accessories, or seek inspiration from this guide.

We'll begin with guidance on winter wetsuits, but do not hesitate to jump straight to the section on winter swimming.

Guide to Buying Winter Wetsuits – Finding the Best Winter Wetsuit for Surfing

When temperatures plummet and the water becomes cold, a thick winter wetsuit is your best companion. Winter wetsuits offer ample insulation to keep you comfortable while you indulge in your favourite water activities. With the right winter surfing wetsuit on and ideal waves, why pass up the chance to do what you love?

Selecting the perfect winter wetsuit is essential for ensuring comfort and safety in cold water, and we’re here to assist you! Whether you're into winter surfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, or wakeboarding, follow our straightforward tips to extend the surfing season.

For more detailed guidance, keep reading, or if you prefer, view our selection of winter wetsuits.

WINTER WETSUIT THICKNESS AND DESIGN

When selecting a wetsuit for winter, certain factors are crucial. It shouldn’t be a surprise that the thickness of the neoprene material is critical: thicker wetsuits offer better insulation.

A wetsuit's thickness is generally represented by two numbers: the first indicates the neoprene's thickness in the torso area, while the second refers to the thickness in arms and legs. The ideal thickness of a winter wetsuit is based on the temperature. Here's a quick reference table for neoprene thickness according to water temperature:

Here are some more tips for selecting winter wetsuits. When examining various models intended for winter use, it’s wise to consider the following:

• Material: Many companies employ unique technologies to boost the heating capabilities of their wetsuits. Often, this is achieved by incorporating a foam core into the neoprene. Once you've found a model with the suitable thickness, check the product details to see if it’s designed with special insulation features that can further elevate your winter surfing experience.
• Stitching: Neoprene materials are typically connected using flatlock stitching, glued stitches, or Glued Blind Stitches (GBS). GBS is renowned for being waterproof and highly flexible, making it the best option for winter wetsuits.
• Sealing: Some winter wetsuits incorporate taped or sealed seams for enhanced water resistance and durability.
• Zipper: Chest zips are highly effective in winter wetsuits as they offer minimal water ingress and great flexibility. Although back zip wetsuits are easier to put on and remove, they tend to allow more water to enter and exit through the zipper.
• Wetsuit Hood: In cold temperatures, a wetsuit hood becomes essential, so weigh up whether a hooded wetsuit is ideal for you. With a hooded wetsuit, you lessen the chance of cold water splashing down your back via the neck. Alternatively, if you'd prefer the option to remove the hood, consider a neoprene hood.
• Neoprene Gloves: These gloves will ensure your hands remain warm and safeguarded while surfing. Navigating your equipment is considerably easier with warm hands compared to frozen ones. Look for a tightly-fitting pair with a correct thickness for your requirements. Regarding their configuration, generally, 5-finger gloves enhance dexterity but provide less warmth than mittens. Lobster-style gloves often strike a balance, blending flexibility with strong insulation.
• Surf Boots: When engaging in winter paddleboarding, surfing, etc., keeping your feet warm is vital. Neoprene shoes are essential! Opt for a pair with a grippy rubber sole that offers adequate warmth for the temperatures you'll encounter.
• Thermal Rash Vest: As autumn approaches, smoothly transitioning from summer to winter wetsuits is key. A thermal neoprene vest worn beneath your summer wetsuit provides additional insulation. By doing this, you achieve the warmth of a 4/3 mm wetsuit suitable for temperatures between 10-14 °C.

Explore our thorough Wetsuit Buying Guide to gain detailed insights into selecting the right wetsuit.

Tips for Cold Water Swimming

Cold water swimming, often referred to as winter swimming or ice swimming, is another excellent method of enjoying the beach in winter. Just immerse yourself in the cold water and let your worries drift away! Known for its numerous health advantages for both mind and body, winter swimming doesn’t require a costly investment to get started. Getting back basics, all you need is a simple towel!

Gear designed for cold water swimming aims to enhance your comfort and safety. Consider using the following accessories to enrich your winter swimming ventures:

• Neoprene Boots: Choose boots with a secure rubber sole for stability on the bathing jetty and ladder surface. They also serve to shield your feet from rocks. Neoprene boots improve your comfort significantly, reducing the risk of injury—a double win for winter swimmers!
• Towel Ponchos: Also known as changing ponchos, these are useful throughout the year. When exiting the water, a hooded towelling poncho offers wind protection, absorbing moisture from the skin and thereby reducing wind chill. Use it to undress your wet swimwear privately, functioning as both a towel and changing poncho!
• Neoprene Gloves: These gloves keep your hands insulated, and they provide a steady grip on the ladder when entering and exiting the water.
• Thermal Swim Caps: To prevent heat loss or protect your ears during cold water immersion, a neoprene hood is an invaluable addition.
• Dry Bags: Useful year-round, these bags are practical for winter swimming. Tuck away your wet towel and swimming clothes in a dry bag, preventing car or bus seats from getting damp. Browse our surf bags category to find numerous dry bag options.
• Other accessories: If you tend to head straight to your car post-swim, a waterproof seat cover is advisable. We also stock numerous surf-related accessories that are ideal for winter swimmers. Fancy a warm mug of coffee or tea after the cold? A mug is highly recommended: always have one handy when visiting the beach in winter!

Advantages of Swimming in Cold Water

The appeal of cold water swimming is growing for many sound reasons. People often cite various potential health benefits connected to cold water immersion, such as strengthened immunity, mental health improvements, and enhanced circulation.

However, consider the risks associated with winter swimming before jumping in. It is critical to consult your doctor if you have any heart issues or respiratory conditions prior to winter swimming. Beginners are encouraged to join a group or community to master the best practices before taking the plunge!

Prepare properly by following the guidance we've provided, and you'll be set to go!