Wetsuit Styles & Fits

When it comes to watersports, having the right gear can make all the difference. Wetsuits are an essential piece of equipment for any wakeboard or water ski enthusiast, providing both warmth and protection from the elements. But not all wetsuits are created equal - there are different types of wetsuits for different activities and conditions. In this blog post, we'll take a look at four types of wetsuits commonly used in watersports: steamers, springsuits, johns, and heater tops.

STEAMER WETSUITS (FULL SUITS) Steamer wetsuits are the most common type of wetsuit used for waterskiing, wakeboarding and other watersports. They are made from neoprene, a synthetic rubber that is both flexible and insulating. Steamer wetsuits typically have long arms and legs, covering the entire body except for the head, hands, and feet. The name "steamer" comes from the fact that the wetsuit traps a thin layer of water between the neoprene and the skin, which is then warmed by body heat. This creates a steam-like effect that helps keep the wearer warm in colder water.

SPRINGSUITS Springsuits, also known as shorties, are wetsuits that have short arms and legs, typically ending just above the elbow and knee. They are often used in warmer water conditions, where a full wetsuit would be too hot. Springsuits are also popular with wakeboarders and waterskiers who prefer more mobility in their arms and shoulders. Like steamer wetsuits, springsuits are made from neoprene and trap a layer of water between the suit and the skin to help keep the wearer warm.

JOHNS Johns, also known as short johns or long johns, are wetsuits that have long or short legs but no sleeves. They are often used by skiers, as they provide extra insulation in the legs while still allowing for greater freedom of movement in the arms. Johns are often worn in conjunction with a wetsuit top or vest to provide extra warmth to the upper body.

HEATER TOPS Heater tops, also known as kilns or neoprene tops, are wetsuit tops that are worn over the torso to provide extra insulation and protection from the sun and wind. Wetsuit tops keep your torso and core warm and are great option coming into and out of winter for water skiers and wakeboarders alike. Heater tops are often used in conjunction with johns in warmer water. They are typically made from thinner neoprene than full wetsuits, providing extra flexibility and mobility for the wearer.

FIT

A wetsuit should fit snugly on your body, but not be so tight that it restricts your movement or breathing. It should fit like a second skin so when you put on a wetsuit, it should feel snug but not constricting. You should be able to move around comfortably and breathe normally. There should be no gaps between your skin and the wetsuit, as this can allow water to seep in and make you feel cold. The wetsuit should not have any wrinkles or bunches of material, as this can cause discomfort and chafing. The thickness of the neoprene should be appropriate for the water temperature you will be in. Thicker wetsuits are warmer but can be less flexible. It's important to note that different brands and styles of wetsuits may fit differently, so it's always a good idea to try on a wetsuit before purchasing it, and make sure to consult the manufacturer's size chart (found on the product page) to find the best fit for your body.

In conclusion, choosing the right wetsuit for your watersport activity and conditions is important to ensure both comfort and safety. Steamers, springsuits, johns, and heater tops are all different types of wetsuits that provide varying levels of insulation and mobility. By understanding the differences between these wetsuits, you can make an informed decision on which one is best for your needs.

We hope this guide has helped you to find the best wetsuit to suit your needs on the water. If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to CONTACT our friendly sales staff.