Show Your Wetsuit Some Love
Proper wetsuit care is essential for maintaining its flexibility, warmth, and durability. A well-maintained wetsuit will last longer, saving you money while keeping you comfortable in the water.
Here’s how to properly care for your wetsuit after each session to ensure it stays in top condition:
Post-Surf Wetsuit Care Tips
Rinse Thoroughly: After every session, rinse your wetsuit with fresh, clean water to remove salt, sand, and debris. Use a hose, shower, or bucket, and pay close attention to areas where residue can accumulate, such as zippers, seams, and pockets.
Rinse Inside and Out: Turn your wetsuit inside out and rinse the interior as well. Salt and sweat buildup inside the suit can accelerate deterioration, leading to unpleasant odors and material breakdown.
Avoid Hot Water: Never rinse your wetsuit with hot water—it can damage the neoprene, causing it to lose flexibility. Stick to cold or lukewarm water to preserve its integrity.
Use a Wetsuit Shampoo or Cleaner: Every few sessions, wash your wetsuit with a neoprene-specific cleaner or wetsuit shampoo. This helps remove bacteria, odors, and salt buildup while keeping the neoprene supple. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
Dry Properly
Hang your wetsuit on a broad-shouldered hanger to prevent creasing and stretching.
Turn it inside out initially to allow the interior to dry first.
Dry it in a shaded, well-ventilated area to prevent UV damage from the sun.
Avoid hanging your wetsuit by the shoulders on thin wire hangers, as this can stretch the material over time. Instead, use a wetsuit hanger or drape it over a thick rod.
Store with Care
Store your wetsuit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or extreme cold.
Avoid folding or crumpling it, as this can cause permanent creases. Instead, hang it properly or lay it flat.
If space is limited, loosely rolling the wetsuit (instead of folding) can help prevent damage.
Prevent Compression Damage: Avoid leaving your wetsuit in a tightly packed bag, trunk, or under heavy objects for extended periods, as this can compress the neoprene and affect its flexibility.
Keep It Away from Sharp Objects: Be mindful of where you place your wetsuit—sharp objects, rough surfaces, and Velcro from other gear can cause snags, punctures, or tears.
Repair Minor Damage Quickly: Inspect your wetsuit regularly for small tears, holes, or loose seams. Repair them promptly using neoprene cement or specialized wetsuit repair patches to prevent further damage.
Maintain Zippers and Velcro
Rinse zippers thoroughly to remove salt and sand, which can cause corrosion or jamming.
Use a silicone-based zipper lubricant to keep zippers running smoothly.
Keep Velcro closures clean to prevent them from sticking to and damaging the wetsuit’s fabric.
Rotate Between Wetsuits (if possible): If you surf frequently, having more than one wetsuit and rotating between them allows each to fully dry and extend their lifespan.
Follow these steps to keep your wetsuit comfortable, flexible, and functional for many surf sessions to come!
How to Change Out of a Wetsuit on a Public Beach
Changing out of a wetsuit on a crowded beach can be tricky, but with a little planning, you can do it quickly and discreetly.
Use a Changing Mat or Towel: Stand on a towel, mat, or plastic bag to keep your wetsuit clean and avoid getting sand stuck inside. This also prevents unnecessary wear on the neoprene when changing on rough surfaces.
Find a Secluded Spot: Look for a quiet area behind rocks, dunes, or your vehicle for added privacy. If the beach is busy, wait for a lull in the crowd before changing.
Use a Changing Poncho or Robe: Surf-changing ponchos or oversized towels with hoods provide privacy while changing. They’re easy to slip on and off, allowing you to get out of your wetsuit without exposing yourself.
Wear a Rash Guard or Bikini Underneath: Having a base layer like a bikini top, rash guard, or board shorts makes it easier to remove your wetsuit in public. You won’t have to worry about full exposure when peeling off the suit.
Apply Lubricant for Easy Removal: If your wetsuit tends to stick, apply a little baby oil, body glide, or a neoprene-friendly lubricant to your wrists and ankles before your session. Avoid petroleum-based products like Vaseline, as they can degrade neoprene.
Change in Stages: First, peel the wetsuit down to your waist, keeping a towel or poncho over your upper body. Once your upper body is free, step out of the lower portion while wrapped in your towel or poncho.
Ask for Assistance: If you're with a friend, they can hold up a towel or poncho to provide extra privacy while you change.
Be Quick and Efficient: Plan your movements to get in and out of your wetsuit as fast as possible. The longer you take, the more attention you might draw.
Respect Other Beachgoers: Be mindful of those around you—avoid changing too close to families or crowded areas. Stay aware of cultural norms and beach rules regarding public changing.
Practice Makes Perfect: The more you change out of your wetsuit, the smoother and quicker the process will become. Find a routine that works best for you and stick with it.
Follow these steps and you can transition from the water to dry clothes effortlessly while keeping your wetsuit in great shape and maintaining privacy.
Take care of your wetsuit, and it will take care of you—sesh after sesh!
Ho Stevie!
