How to find the right neoprene thickness for your needs, different season in different surfing areas.
You ask yourself:
What neoprene thickness do I need at what water temperature? How much mm does the neoprene of my wetsuit need to have?
We have the ultimate guide to neoprene thickness, water temperature and water sports for you. Here we answer all your questions. You can also find temperature tables with recommended neoprene thickness for different water sports in the following FAQs.
The thickness of the wetsuit has an influence on the elasticity and thermal properties. These factors also have a great influence on fatigue. The harder you have to work against the neoprene, as the stretch is low, costs energy, as does the cold water, which saps your energy sources.
Therefore, always keep in mind the perfect balance between neoprene thickness and stretch for the conditions.
When in doubt, however, you should always choose the thicker neoprene, as severe hypothermia and the resulting loss of power can be life-threatening.
Summary:
The thinner the neoprene, the colder and more flexible the surf suit.
The neoprene thickness of a wetsuit is always given in millimetres (mm). The specification is always as follows: 3/2 mm means that the neoprene has a thickness of 3 mm on the torso/body and 2 mm on the arms and legs. The arms and legs need more flexibility and therefore the neoprene is thinner there and offers more stretch.
So which wetsuit thickness is right for you?
The thickness of the neoprene depends on the water temperature and the type of sport you are doing. Bodyboarding and surfing require a slightly different wetsuit thickness than windsurfing, for example, in the same conditions. A windsurfer is more exposed to the wind and is out of the water most of the time. A surfer has to work harder and paddle, which heats up the body more and warms the neoprene. In addition, surfers are in the water all the time and are not as exposed to the wind.
In the following two FAQs you will find tables with all the important data for the different water sports.
