Wetsuits

Steamers, springsuits and how to choose

A wetsuit works by trapping a thin layer of water between the neoprene and your skin. Your body heat warms that layer, and the suit holds it there — which is why a snug fit matters more than anything else. A loose suit flushes cold water through and never warms up. Wetsuit types. A full-length steamer covers the whole body, arms and legs, and is the warmest option — the pick for winter skiing and the coldest water. A springsuit has short legs (and either long or short arms) for milder conditions — common for spring and autumn sessions in Queensland and warmer states. A John wetsuit is a sleeveless full-leg suit that gives leg and core warmth while leaving the arms free for full rope movement — popular with skiers who run hot through the shoulders. Springsuits and Johns layer well under a heater top when the water drops colder than expected. Thickness. Wetsuit neoprene is measured in millimetres, often as two numbers (like 3/2mm) — the first is the torso thickness, the second the limbs, so the core stays warmer while the arms and legs stay flexible. Thicker neoprene is warmer but less flexible; thinner is more flexible but colder. Match the thickness to your local water temperature and how much you feel the cold. Fit. The suit should be snug everywhere with no gaps or loose folds, and sealed at the ankles, wrists and neck to stop water flushing through. It’ll feel tight when dry — that’s correct; neoprene gives a little once wet. If you can’t get it on or it restricts your breathing, it’s too small; if there’s bagging at the lower back or behind the knees, it’s too big. Mens, womens and kids. Womens suits are cut for a different torso shape; mens run straighter. Kids and grom suits are sized down for younger riders, who lose heat faster than adults and benefit from a full suit sooner. Brands. Rip Curl runs the deepest range here across steamers and springsuits for mens, womens and kids. Jetpilot covers ski and jet ski with its Flight and RX lines. Follow specialises in towed watersports. Ronix, Radar and HO round out the range. Care. Rinse in fresh water after every use, dry inside-out away from direct sun, and never wring it — fold or hang over a wide bar to protect the neoprene.