WINTER WETSUIT TEMPERATURE GUIDE: FINDING THE RIGHT WETSUIT THICKNESS FOR THIS WINTER

With this wetsuit thickness guide, we'll explain how water temperatures and weather conditions affect your choice for the best wetsuit. Obviously a thicker wetsuit is warmer, but there is more to consider when choosing the right wetsuit, especially in winter where small differences make a big impact. Let us guide you towards the ideal wetsuit for your winter surfing sessions.

WATER TEMPERATURE

First question to ask yourself is what the water temperature is where you’ll be using your wetsuit in winter. Comfort is key when surfing, and there's nothing worse than feeling too warm or cutting a session short due to the cold. Getting your wetsuit thickness just right is crucial. That’s why we need to find the suitable thickness for each water temperature.

At SRFACE, we like to keep things simple. That's why we've summarized our thickness advice in the Thickness Calculator. You can find it on every product detail page next to the button to select the wetsuit thickness. Find your home location, select your season, and we will provide the right wetsuit thickness. Can't wait to find your perfect wetsuit thickness for this season? Use our Thickness Calculator below.

THICKNESS CALCULATOR

OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE

The second important factor to consider is the air temperature you’ll be surfing in. In most locations colder air comes with cooler water in winter but there are some exceptions, usually when the seasons change or when the ocean brings cooler water to your local beach. When air temperature is considerably higher than the water temperature you may consider a 1mm thinner wetsuit. When the air is colder than the water it’s the other way around.

WEATHER CONDITIONS 

The last factors to take into account before zipping up your wetsuit for your winter surf session are sunshine and wind. A sunny day without wind will feel much warmer than a cloudy day with 20 knots offshore. These conditions can make the difference in winter when adding or removing a milimiter of rubber. Mainstream weather reports usually mention the effects on how the forecasted temperatures feels in reality. This is called the chill temperature. This already takes into account the energy provided by the sun and the windchill effects created by the wind. Humidity and evaporation also play a role, but that’s a more complicated effect and is called the “dewpoint”.

WINTER WETSUIT FEATURES

What wetsuit features should you look for when choosing the right wetsuit for surfing in winter? Below we list the obvious and less known features

• Neoprene thickness. A thicker wetsuit is warmer and vice versa.

• Neoprene quality. Some Neoprene types like Yamamoto have better heat retention capabilities.

• Plush inside lining. This thicker, plus lining keeps water away from your body and traps more air thats easier to warm up.

• Smoothskin panels. Smooth, rubber panels on chest and back dry faster when sitting on you board which means less windchill.

• Outside liquid seams. This seam type make a 100% water proof seam that lasts longer and prevents water from entering your wetsuit through the seams.

• Fully taped inside seams. Taping the inside of seams is the third line of defense against water entering your wetsuit.

• Sealed cuffs. Make sure your wetsuit has seals at the ankle and wrist cuffs that prevent water from entering your wetsuit in those areas.

Now we have looked at all the factors to consider when choosing your winter wetsuit let’s have a look at what wetsuit types suit the water temperature you’ll be surfing in.

4/3MM WETSUIT: WARMER WINTER WATERS

Perfect for regions where the temperature drop is only limited in winter, typically ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). This is ideal for places like Southern Europe, Morocco and the southern states in the USA. The extra thickness in the core and limbs compared to a 3/2 provides warmth while maintaining flexibility, especially as winter brings windier conditions and rain. On colder / windier days a surf cap can provide some extra warmth and protection against Surfers Ear. 

5/4MM HOOD WETSUIT: COLD WINTER WATERS

Best for colder regions where water temperatures dip below 10°C (50°F). A 5/4 can be used in temperatures between 5°C and 13°C (41°F to 55°F). If you're surfing in places like Ireland, Scotland, Northern France, or the Northern States in the USA this wetsuit provides maximum warmth while still allowing for freedom of movement during colder, longer sessions. 5/4 wetsuits are usually also available without a fixed hood, however in winter a hood is usually adviced.

6/5 MM HOOD WETSUIT: COLD TO FREEZING WINTER WATERS

These are usually the thickest winter surfing wetsuits available and best for regions where water and air drops below 5°C (41°F). These wetsuits keep you warm in the coldest surf area’s like Scandinavia, Canada and on very cold days in area’s where you can normally wear a 5/4. 

WINTER SURF ACCESSORIES

Autumn surf conditions demand not just the right wetsuit but also the right accessories to keep you fully protected from the cold.

SRFACE BOOTIES

SRFACE neoprene surf boots come in different thicknesses—3mm, 5mm, and 7mm—to match the water temperature. Whether you need a thinner boot for milder conditions or a thicker one for colder water, these boots provide warmth and grip.

SRFACE HOOD

A SRFACE neoprene hood is a must for cooler days, as it helps maintain your body temperature by shielding your head from cold water and wind.

SRFACE GLOVES

SRFACE neoprene gloves keep your hands warm while maintaining dexterity, making them an essential part of your autumn surf gear.

Choosing the right winter wetsuit is essential to stay warm, comfortable, and safe during your surf sessions. By considering water temperature, outside conditions, and the specific features of your wetsuit, you can find the perfect match for your needs. Whether you're braving freezing waters in Scandinavia or catching waves in milder winter climates, SRFACE has the tools and advice to help you stay in the water longer. Use our Thickness Calculator to find your ideal wetsuit and gear up for your next winter adventure. See you out there!