Guide to Wetsuit Sizing

What is a wetsuit?

A wetsuit is a garment made of neoprene material that is designed to provide insulation and protection in various water activities. It is commonly used by surfers, divers, and other water sports enthusiasts. The main purpose of a wetsuit is to keep the body warm by trapping a thin layer of water between the skin and the suit. This layer acts as an insulator, helping to maintain body temperature even in cold water. Additionally, wetsuits also provide protection against the elements, such as UV rays, abrasions, and stings from marine life.

Importance of proper wetsuit sizing

Wearing a properly fitting wetsuit is crucial for maximizing comfort and performance in the water. A wetsuit that is too tight can restrict movement, hinder flexibility, and cause discomfort, making it difficult to move and perform at your best. On the other hand, an ill-fitting wetsuit that is too loose can allow water to flow in and out, reducing the insulating properties and leaving you cold and uncomfortable. Improper sizing can also lead to chafing, rashes, and blisters, which can be painful and take away from the enjoyment of your water activities.

How to measure for a wetsuit

To ensure the best fit possible, it is important to accurately measure your body. Here are the key measurements to take when determining your wetsuit size:

1. Chest circumference: Measure the fullest part of your chest with your arms relaxed at your sides.
2. Waist circumference: Measure the narrowest part of your waist, usually around your belly button.
3. Hip circumference: Measure the fullest part of your hips, typically at the widest point.
4. Height: Stand up straight against a wall and measure from the floor to the top of your head.

Understanding wetsuit size charts

Different wetsuit brands may have slightly different sizing charts, so it is important to consult the specific brand’s size chart for accurate measurements. These charts typically include measurements for chest, waist, hip, and height, and may also consider weight or other factors. When referring to the size chart, it is essential to pay attention to the measurements and select the size that aligns closest with your own measurements. Keep in mind that wetsuits are meant to fit snugly, so it is better to err on the side of a slightly smaller size if your measurements fall between two sizes.

Factors to consider when choosing a wetsuit size

Apart from the measurements, there are a few other factors to consider when selecting a wetsuit size:

• Body type and shape: Different wetsuit brands may cater to different body types. Some may have a more athletic fit, while others may accommodate a wider range of body shapes. It is important to choose a brand that suits your body type to ensure a comfortable fit.
• Thickness of the wetsuit: Wetsuits come in different thicknesses, typically measured in millimeters. Thicker wetsuits provide more insulation but may restrict movement, while thinner wetsuits offer greater flexibility but less warmth. Consider the water temperature and activity level to determine the appropriate thickness for your needs.
• Intended water temperature and activity level: The water temperature and the type of water activity you will be participating in also play a role in wetsuit sizing. Colder water requires thicker wetsuits to retain body heat, while warmer water may allow for thinner, more flexible wetsuits.

Trying on a wetsuit

Once you have selected a wetsuit based on your measurements and other considerations, it is time to try it on. Follow these steps for a proper fit:

1. Start by putting on a swim cap to protect your hair and avoid pulling.
2. Put on the wetsuit gradually, pulling it up from your legs and hips. Make sure it is snug but not overly tight.
3. Gently wiggle into the arms, ensuring a range of motion without any excessive resistance or discomfort.
4. Check that the length fits well, with the neoprene sitting just above your ankle and wrists.
5. Test the fit by performing a few movements, such as bending at the knees and rotating your arms. The wetsuit should feel comfortable, allowing for flexibility and mobility.

Common wetsuit sizing mistakes to avoid

When it comes to choosing and sizing a wetsuit, there are a few common mistakes that should be avoided:

• Choosing the wrong size based on clothing size: Wetsuits are not typically sized the same way as regular clothing. It is important to rely on accurate body measurements rather than assuming your clothing size will translate to the right wetsuit size.
• Ignoring the manufacturer’s size recommendations: Each wetsuit brand has its own sizing guidelines, so it is crucial to follow their recommendations rather than relying solely on your own judgment or assumptions.
• Settling for an ill-fitting wetsuit: It may be tempting to settle for a wetsuit that is not an ideal fit, especially if you find a good deal or are in a rush. However, investing in a properly fitting wetsuit will greatly enhance your comfort and performance in the water.

Tips for maintaining the fit of a wetsuit

To prolong the life and maintain the fit of your wetsuit, follow these tips:

• Proper care and storage: Rinse your wetsuit thoroughly after each use with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and other debris. Hang it to dry in a cool and shaded area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid folding or creasing the wetsuit to prevent permanent damage.
• Stretching and adjusting: Over time, a wetsuit may stretch and become looser. To maintain a snug fit, consider using wetsuit-specific stretchers or adjusting the fit by taking it to a professional wetsuit repair shop.

Additional considerations for specific wetsuit types

Different types of wetsuits are designed for specific water activities and offer varying levels of coverage and insulation. Here are a few common types:

• Full wetsuits: These provide full coverage, typically extending from the neck to the ankles. They are suitable for colder water temperatures and offer maximum insulation and protection.
• Shorty wetsuits: Shorty wetsuits have shorter arms and legs, providing less coverage while still offering insulation for the upper body and thighs. They are commonly used in warmer water conditions.
• Spring suits: Spring suits, or short arm/short leg wetsuits, are ideal for mild to warm water. They offer less coverage than full wetsuits but provide more insulation than shorty suits.
• Drysuits: Unlike neoprene wetsuits, drysuits are made of waterproof material and are designed to keep you completely dry while allowing for insulation underneath. They are often used in extremely cold water conditions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wetsuit size is crucial for both comfort and performance in the water. By accurately measuring your body, consulting size charts, considering various factors, and trying on the wetsuit properly, you can ensure a snug and comfortable fit. Avoiding common sizing mistakes and properly maintaining your wetsuit will also help prolong its lifespan and retain its fit. Whether you’re a surfer, diver, or any other water sports enthusiast, a well-fitting wetsuit will enhance your experience and allow you to fully enjoy your time in the water. So, take the time to find the right wetsuit size and embark on your aquatic adventures with confidence!

Tags: Size Finder, tall S XS ST M, What wetsuit sizes, ML MS, MLS MT, arm mobility, little water.

 

Men’s XCEL Wetsuits Size Chart
SIZE	HEIGHT (FT)	WEIGHT (LB)
XS	5’4″-5’6″	125-135
S	5’6″ – 5’8″	135 – 150
ST	5’9″ – 6	145-160
MS	5’7” – 5’9″	145 – 160
M	5’8” – 5’10”	155 – 170
MT	5’11” – 6’1”	165 – 180
MLS	5’6” – 5’8”	155 – 170
ML	5’9″ – 5’11”	165 – 180
LS	5’7″ – 5’9″	165 – 180
L	5″10″ – 6′	175-190
LT	6’1″ – 6’3″	185 – 200
XLS	5’8″ – 5’10”	190 – 205
XL	5’11” – 6’2″	190 – 205
XLT	6’3” – 6’6″	205 – 220
2XLS	5’9″ – 6″	195 – 210
2XL	6’0” – 6’3”	205 – 220
3XLS	5’10” – 6’1″	220 – 240
3XL	6’1” – 6’6”	230 – 260
4XL	6’1″-6’6″	280 – 300
Women’s XCEL Wetsuits Size Chart
SIZE	HEIGHT (FT)	WEIGHT (LB)
2	4’11 -5’2″	90 – 100
4/XS	5′ – 5’3″	95 – 105
6/S	5’2″ – 5’5″	105 – 115
6T	5’5″ – 5’8″	115 – 130
8S	5’2″-5’4″	105 – 120
8/M	5’4″-5’7″	115 – 130
8T	5’7″-5’10”	120 – 135
10S	5’3″ – 5’6″	120 – 135
10/L	5’5″ – 5’8″	130 – 145
10T	5’9″ – 6′	140 – 155
12S	5’4″ – 5’7″	140 – 155
12/XL	5’6″ – 5’9″	150 – 165
14S	5’4″ – 5’7″	150 – 170
14/2XL	5’6″ – 5’9″	160- 160
16	5’7″ – 5’10”	180 – 200
Youth XCEL Wetsuits Size Chart
SIZE	HEIGHT (FT)	WEIGHT (LB)
4	3’10” – 4’1″	40 – 55
6	4’1″ – 4’4″	50 – 65
8	4’4″ – 4’7″	60 – 75
10	4’7″ – 4’10”	70 – 85
12	4’10” – 5’1″	80 – 95
14	5’1″ – 5’4″	95 – 110
16	5’4″ – 5’6″	105 – 120

Toddler XCEL Wetsuits Size Chart
SIZE	HEIGHT (FT)	WEIGHT (LB)
T1	28″ – 32″	20 – 25
T2	33″ – 37″	25 – 30
T3	38″ – 42″	30 – 35
T4	43″ – 47″	35 – 40
T5	48″ – 52″	40 – 45

 

Solite Boot Size Chart

MEN VOLTE Wetsuits Size Chart
SIZE	HEIGHT (FT)	WEIGHT (LB)
XS	5’7” – 5’9”	125 – 140
S	5’8” – 5’10”	135 – 155
MS	5’6 1⁄2” – 5’8 1⁄2”	140 – 160
M	5’9” – 5’11”	150 – 170
MT	5’11” – 6’2”	160 – 180
LS	5’7 1⁄2” – 5’9 1⁄2”	160 – 180
L	5’10” – 6’0”	170 – 190
LT	6’0” – 6’2”	180 – 200
XLS	5’8 1⁄2” – 5’10 1⁄2”	180 – 200
XL	5’11” – 6’2”	190 – 210
XLT	6’3” – 6’5”	200 – 220
2XL	6’0” – 6’3”	210 – 230
3XL	6’1” – 6’6”	230 – 250
WOMEN VOLTE Wetsuits Size Chart
SIZE	HEIGHT (FT)	WEIGHT (LB)
6	5’5” – 5’7”	105 – 125
8	5’6” – 5’8”	110 – 130
10	5’7” – 5’9”	120 – 140
12	5’8” – 5’10”	130 – 150
14	5’9” – 5’11”	140 – 160
16	5’11” – 6’0”	160 – 180
KIDS VOLTE Wetsuits Size Chart
SIZE	HEIGHT (FT)	WEIGHT (LB)
2	3’1 1⁄2” – 3’4 1⁄2”	30 – 35
4	3’10 1⁄2” – 4’1 1⁄2”	40 – 55
6	4’1 1⁄2” – 4’4 1⁄2”	50 – 65
8	4’4 1⁄2” – 4’7 1⁄2”	60 – 75
10	4’7” – 4’10”	75 – 90
12	4’10” – 5’1”	90 – 105
14	5’1” – 5’4”	105 – 120
16	5’4” – 5’7”	120 – 135

Toddler VOLTE Wetsuits Size Chart
SIZE	HEIGHT (FT)	WEIGHT (LB)
T0	2’1 0½” – 3’2 ½”	25 – 30
T2	3’2 ½” – 3’6 ½”	30 – 35
T4	3’6 ½” – 3’10 ½”	35 – 40
T6	3’10 ½” – 4’1 ½”	40 – 55

APPAREL MENS TOPS (APPROXIMATE SIZING)

Size	Chest	Waist
XS	30 – 32	24 – 26
S	34 – 36	28 – 30
M	38 – 40	32 – 34
L	42 – 44	36 – 38
XL	46 – 48	40 – 42
2XL	50 – 52	44 – 46
3XL	54 – 56	48 – 50
4XL	58 – 60	52 – 54
5XL	62 – 64	56 – 58

MENS SWEATPANTS/SHORTS Size Chart

XS	24 – 26
S	28 – 30
M	32 – 34
L	36 – 38
XL	40 – 42
2XL	44 – 46
3XL	48 – 50
4XL	52 – 54
5XL	56 – 58

WOMENS APPAREL TOPS Size Chart

Size	Bust	Waist
XS	32 – 33½	25 – 26
S	34 – 35½	27 – 28
M	36 – 37½	29 – 30
L	39 – 40½	31½ – 33
XL	42 – 43½	34½ – 36

WOMENS CAMI’S Size Chart

Size	Bust	Waist
XS	30 – 33½	24 – 25
S	33½ – 35	26 – 27
M	35 – 36½	28 – 29
L	37 – 39	30 – 31½
XL	39 – 42	32 – 34½

WOMENS SWEATS/CASUAL TOPS Size Chart

Size	Bust	Waist
XS	31 – 32	23 – 24
S	33 – 34	25 – 26
M	35 – 36	27 – 28
L	37 – 39	29 – 31
XL	40 – 41½	32 – 34½
2XL	42 – 44	35 – 38
3XL	45 – 46	39 – 42

WOMENS BOTTOMS SIZE CHART

Size	Waist	Hips
XS	25 – 26	35 – 36
S	27 – 28	37 – 38
M	29 – 30	39 – 40
L	31½ – 33	41½ – 43
XL	34½ – 36	44½ – 46

WOMENS SWEAT/CASUALWEAR BOTTOMS Size Chart

Size	Waist	Hips
XS	23 – 24	33½ – 34½
S	25 – 26	35½ – 36½
M	27 – 28	37½ – 38½
L	29 – 31	39½ – 41½
XL	32 – 34½	42½ – 45
2XL	35 – 38	46 – 48½
3XL	39 – 42	49 – 51

WOMEN’S DRESSES Size Chart

Size	Bust	Waist	Hips
XS	32 – 33½	25 – 26	35 – 36
S	34 – 35½	27 – 28	37 – 38
M	36 – 37½	29 – 30	39 – 40
L	39 – 40½	31½ – 33	41½ – 43
XL	42 – 43½	34½ – 36	44½ – 46

HyyperFlex Men’s Wetsuits Size Chart

Size	Height (not available from mnfctr)	Weight (not available from mnfctr)
XS
S
M
MS
ML
L
LS
LL
XL
XLS
XLL
XXL
3XL

HyyperFlex Women’s Wetsuits Size Chart

Size	Height (not available from mnfctr)	Weight (not available from mnfctr)
XS-4
SM-6
MD-8
LG-10
ML
XL-12
XXL-14
16

HyyperFlex Youth Wetsuits Size Chart

Size	Height	Weight
10	4’8″ – 4’11”	75-90 lbs.
12	4’10” – 5’1″	90-105 lbs.
14	5’1″ – 5’4″	105-120 lbs.
16	5’4″ – 5’7″	120-135 lbs.

HyyperFlex Toddler/Kids Wetsuits Size Chart

Size	Height	Weight
1	2’10” – 3’1″	20-25 lbs.
2	3’1″ – 3’5″	25-30 lbs.
3	3’5″ – 3’9″	35-40 lbs.
4	3’9″ – 4’2″	40-50 lbs.
6	4’2″ – 4’5″	50-60 lbs.
8	4’5″ – 4’8″	60-75 lbs.