Buying a Cheap Wetsuit - Some Things To Look For
Different manufacturers advertise features of wetsuits that are supposed to improve performance. Some advertised features are useless gimmicks but some have merit for either comfort or performance. The more useful features are detailed here to help you choose the correct wetsuit.
Neoprene
This is a rubber foam material that is lined for stretch and warmth with a jersey fabric. Stretch is important for fit and comfort but the stretchier the fabric the less durability it has. In some areas, the knees for instance, durability is more important than flexibility so a stronger, more durable fabric is used.
seam Construction
In order to fit well a wetsuit is made from a number of panels. More panels mean a better fit but they also mean more seams which leads to decrease in the ‘give’ of the wetsuit. There should not be seams in areas that can cause chafing such as behind the knees or around the neck. Also in areas that interfere with the ability to move such as around the shoulders or behind the knees.
Types of Stitching
Blindstitching and flatlocking are the types of stitching used in the making of wetsuits. In more expensive wetsuits blindstitching is usually used. The seam is glued then stitched. The needle used only partially penetrates the material. As the hole does not penetrate right through the fabric the seam will not allow water to pass. Because this process is so labour intensive it is also the most expensive. The seam produced by flatlocking is flexible and strong but not watertight as the needle makes a hole right through the material. This is not really suitable for winter suits and is usually only seen in summer wetsuits.
Rubber Sealed Seams
A rubber compound can be used to seal the seam and make it watertight. This is highly effective but cannot be used in areas that need flexibility.
Types of Neoprene Coating
Two types of neoprene are used in wetsuits, WRC and PU printing. WRC stands for water repellent coating. WRC uses a water repellent chemical, although only on the top half of the suit usually. Less water is absorbed by the fabric and the wetsuit is therefore lighter and warmer. A process called PU printing is used to make the neoprene more durable and abrasion damage resistant.
Batwings
These are used in the more expensive wetsuits to make the suit warmer and more comfortable. They are thin strips of neoprene sewn inside the zip to prevent cold water entering.
Seal
Chafing at neck, ankle and wrist seals can be prevented by not having the seals too tight but they should not be loose enough to let water enter the wetsuit. A wetsuit made with elastic neoprene with not too many seams is what you should be looking for.
What is the Cost?
More expensive wetsuits have features such as superstretch material and blindstitching which enhance performance. These features can however give a shorter life to the wetsuit due to lowering the durability. A better performing wetsuit will not be as durable or last so long as a poorer performing suit. You should decide whether to sacrifice durability for a better performances. Don’t try to skimp on the quality of the wetsuit. If you are going to be wearing it for a long time you want the most comfortable one you can afford.
Conclusion
Look for the best neoprene wetsuit that is flexible, comfortable and fits well that you can afford.
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May 24th, 2009 at 4:13 am
I got certified 27 years ago in a 1/4 inch Bayley wetsuit. It was quite adequate for thermal insulation. The problem with it was that it was so stiff on land. If you were sitting on the ground someone would have to help you up.
Hated it. I now have a hyperstretch wetsuit which is quite comfortable and easy to move on land while wearing it.
Excellent article by the way