The Only Wetsuit Guide You’ll Ever Need

Most of the best ocean adventures out there have one thing in common: a trusty wetsuit. Whether you’re shredding sunrise waves, exploring intricate kelp forests, conquering your next triathlon title, or simply opting for relaxing plunges in the iconic sting of the Atlantic, the right wetsuit keeps you warm, flexible, and fully prepared for whatever the deep blue has in store. However, as the world of wetsuits has rapidly expanded—driven by both necessity and popularity—the sheer number of options available can feel overwhelming, even for seasoned water lovers. But don’t worry—this guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know about wetsuits, including how to choose the right one for your specific needs. 

Why Owning a Wetsuit Matters

Whilst renting gear might get you by for the odd adventure, owning your wetsuit will set you up for endless fun in the deep blue. With a wetsuit by your side, you’ve scored yourself a second skin, guaranteed extra warmth and a one-way ticket to every spontaneous and thrilling escapade that waits for you in the waves. 

Here’s why it’s probably worth the investment:

The Perfect Fit: Say goodbye to awkward, saggy rental sizes and hello to your aqua skin that easily fits your form.

Comfort and Hygiene: You know where your own wetsuit has been. Enough said.

Always Ready: No need to go through the mission of booking and borrowing, just grab your wetsuit and head towards the plunges of your dreams.

Long-term Savings: Whilst renting starts to slowly add up, buying your own will save you the cash in the long run.

Personal Style & Functionality: It’s up to you to choose the perfect thickness, fit, cut and features which will suit your specific adventuring needs.

Wetsuit 101: The Basics

So what makes a wetsuit a wetsuit? Wetsuits are designed to help you stay warm in chilly waters (especially relevant for South Africa’s Atlantic), stay protected and linger out in the water for longer. Behind every stitch is the science and intention that guides you through unending waters. Whether you’re new to the scene or just need a refresher, here’s a crash course on the wetsuit basics.

How a Wetsuit Keeps You Warm

How does a wetsuit enable you to withstand the sting of the Atlantic long enough to catch those waves? Well, it’s actually your own body heat doing the work- the wetsuit itself serves to trap a thin layer of water between your skin and the neoprene. Within this layer, your wetsuit holds the heat that your body creates, keeping you warmer for longer. 

Neoprene, Flex & Fit: The Key Ingredients of Comfort

When it comes to staying comfortable in the water, there are three key factors that will truly make all the difference: first, the quality of the neoprene; second, the overall flexibility of the suit; and finally, how well it fits your body. Working together, these key factors of a wetsuit will ideally keep you cosy, mobile and feeling good through whatever adventure is on your cards. 

Neoprene: a type of synthetic rubber which serves as the core material of wetsuits. Neoprene brings insulation, flexibility and buoyancy to aquatic adventures. Good quality neoprene is critical as it tends to be softer yet more durable- allowing you to be fully and comfortably immersed in the ocean for longer. 

Flexibility: Essential for all those thrilling movement-heavy activities like surfing, windsurfing or open-water swimming, the more flexible the wetsuit, the easier it is to move naturally in the water. 

Fit: Having a snug second-skin type of fit is crucial. Too tight and you won’t be able to bend comfortably but too loose and cold water flushes right in, so make sure to find the perfect size for you when you browse your wetsuits.

Different Types of Wetsuits & What They’re For 

Every wetsuit is designed a little differently. The best wetsuit for you depends on how and where you plan to use it. From surfing swells in Cape Town’s icy waters to training for a triathlon, each wetsuit has a purpose- which one will you unlock? 

Surfing Wetsuits: Specifically designed for flexibility, ease of movement, and warmth during those long, dreamy sessions on the backline, these wetsuits offer key features to look out for. For instance, reinforced knees add durability, quick-dry linings enhance comfort between waves, and a snug fit ensures your suit will serve your surfing well from start to finish.

Diving Wetsuits: Desiring to plunge into the icy depths? These wetsuits are usually thicker for the deep cold blues waiting to be explored. With focus on thermal protection and durability scuba diving in some of South Africa’s iconic spots like Sodwana Bay has never been more inviting. 

Triathlon & Swimming Wetsuits: Built first and foremost for speed, flexibility and buoyancy, these wetsuits help you glide through open water while keeping your muscles warm and your body streamlined. Ideal for competitive athletes and open-water swimmers. 

The Rise of the Female Wetsuit: Wetsuits for the ladies are now tailored for real shape and performance, bidding farewell to boxy unisex fits and welcoming wetsuits that flatter and fit the female form, allowing the feminine to take on waves with force.

Kids Wetsuits: Made to keep all the little adventurers warm, safe and cosy in the waters as they learn to scuba, surf, explore and relish in all the fun the ocean has to offer. 

Choosing The Right Wetsuit for South African Waters

South Africa’s coastline is wild and diverse, calling for all kinds of wetsuit-wearing adventures.

Deciding what wetsuit to bring along with you ultimately depends on where you’re heading, when you’re going, and what you’ll be doing. In other words, the wetsuit should always match the mission—location, timing, and activity all play a role in making the right choice 

Location Matters: Surfing Cape Town’s iconic Atlantic? You’ll need a thicker wetsuit to combat icy temperatures, try 4/3mm or 5/mm wetsuits. Dabbling in Durban’s North Beach? The warm Indian Ocean waters only require a 2mm shorty. 

Time of Year: Summer in spots like Plettenberg Bay might only call for a lightweight suit but if you’re diving in Elands Bay or Gaansbaai in winter, a thick, hooded suit would probably serve you best.

Your Activity: If you’re an open-water swimmer training in one of the dams near Stellenbosch, then you should opt for a sleek triathlon wetsuit, specifically designed for buoyancy and a full range of motion. On the other hand, if you’re scuba diving off Aliwal Shoal, you’ll probably prefer a more durable and insulated diving wetsuit, as it’s built to handle deeper depths and colder currents.

How to Care for Your Wetsuit

A good wetsuit is the ultimate adventure investment. With the right care, it’ll keep you warm and protected for many seasons to come. Here’s how to ensure a healthy wetsuit lifespan: 

• Rinse with fresh water after every use (bonus points for hot water!) 
• Avoid direct sunlight when you dry it. 
• Hang it properly on a wide hanger or rail to avoid stretching the shoulders.
• Avoid direct sunlight when drying – shade will help prevent unwanted cracking and fading to keep things feeling neat. 
• Store it cool, flat or loosely folded (not crammed into a hot car boot).
• Never machine wash or tumble dry your wetsuit, hand-washing is key. 

Ready? The Best Spot to Buy Your Wetsuit 

Now that you know what to look for in a wetsuit, it’s time to gear up for your next adventure—and that’s exactly where Ocean Trade Supplies comes in. Whether you’re diving, surfing, swimming, or even just dipping your toes into something new, they’ve got the perfect suit to match. Plus, with their wide range of options and expert advice, finding the right fit has never been easier. Browse a wide selection of high-quality wetsuits that are made for every kind of water adventure that South Africa has to offer- all with the convenience of online shopping and the peace of mind that comes with trusted local quality. Ready to dive in? Find your perfect wetsuit at Ocean Trade Supplies and hit the water prepared