How to choose a wetsuit Part 1
The first factor to consider when choosing a surfing wetsuit is the water temperature. Water temperature varies depending on the location and time of year. Keep these guidelines in mind: Warm = above 20°C. Temperate = 17°C–22°C. Cold = 12°C–17°C. Very cold = 7°C–12°C. Visit seatemperature.org to check sea temperatures around the world.
How to choose a wetsuit Part 2
The second factor to consider is how long you’ll be out on the water. Our 100 models are suitable for sessions of up to 1 hour. For 1–2 hours, opt for a 500 wetsuit; for 2–3 hours, go for a 900.
Wetsuits with a higher model number are warmer, more watertight, and better at reducing irritation and fatigue (thanks to greater freedom of movement). The same is true for the 900 models compared with the 500 models.
Note: The 900 models are easier to put on.
Choosing a size
To get the most out of your wetsuit, it’s important to choose the right size. A surfing wetsuit should have a very tight fit with no visible folds. When dry, it might feel too tight, but this discomfort disappears as soon as the wetsuit gets wet. If your wetsuit is too big, folds will appear. You will feel irritation, and the suit’s thermal comfort will be reduced, letting in water.
Try it on before you buy it!
Materials
This shorty is made of neoprene for guaranteed comfort in the water. The synthetic lining improves its resistance to wear. Neoprene thickness: 1.5 mm.
Neoprene is a closed-cell polychloroprene elastomeric foam with trapped nitrogen bubbles that have insulating properties.
Collar
The neck finish has been developed to limit irritation. According to the sensitivity of the wearer, a UV top can be worn under the wetsuit to reduce the risk of irritation. The application of grease (e.g. Vaseline) in friction areas (neck, underarms) is also recommended if wearing the wetsuit for long periods. Make sure the flap is always inside the wetsuit to limit the risk of irritation with the zipper and the neck.
Fasteners
Our zips and fastenings are lab-tested for guaranteed durability and resistance to salt water. The zip is located at the back of the wetsuit for greater comfort when lying down to paddle.
Zipper
We are required by law to put a short cord on the zippers of children’s products to prevent the risk of strangulation. Above size 10 years, the cords are long so that kids can use them by themselves. A small rip-tab prevents the zipper from accidentally opening.
Anti-chafing design
Seamless panels under the arms reduce irritation caused by paddling movements.
Stay warm for longer with our thermal accessories!
Each temperature range has its own outfit.
When we’re in the water, more than half our body heat is lost through our extremities (feet, hands, head). To stay warm, consider these accessories:
- Warm to temperate water (> 17°C): Low-cut neoprene booties.
- Cold water (12°C–17°C): High-cut booties and gloves.
- Very cold water (7°C–12°C): High-cut booties, gloves, hood, and hooded top.
Find our entire range of neoprene accessories on our website.
Versatile wetsuits
Our wetsuits are designed to meet the needs of the most demanding surfers. They’re also compatible with many other water sports, including kitesurfing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and stand-up paddle boarding.
What is Olaian?
Tribord is becoming Olaian, the new Decathlon brand dedicated to surfing, bodyboarding, and skimboarding. All our surfing products are gradually being rebranded. The logo on your product may therefore differ from the logo seen in the product image.
