- Choosing the right wetsuit is crucial for warmth, protection and freedom of movement when surfing.
- O’Neill Reactor 2mm offers a great balance of flexibility and durability at an affordable price, ideal for milder water temperatures.
- Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 3/2mm is for cooler waters, offering extra insulation and excellent stretch without restricting movement.
- Quiksilver Prologue 2/2mm is affordable, flexible and comfortable, perfect for warmer conditions.
- When choosing a wetsuit, beginners should consider thickness for the appropriate water temperatures, a good fit to prevent water pooling, and the type of closure for ease of dressing.
- A well-selected wetsuit is one that is affordable, comfortable, and easy to use.
- A well chosen wetsuit will help you learn to surf by providing protection and comfort.
Getting started in surfing is an exciting endeavor that requires talent, practice and the right equipment. An essential element is the wetsuit. Not only does it keep you warm, it also protects you from UV rays and abrasions, and improves your buoyancy in the water. But which wetsuits are best for beginners? This article, part of the Surfing 101: Getting Started in Surfing series, looks at the best options for beginner surfers.
Why Choosing the Right Wetsuit is Crucial
Before we dive into the recommendations, it is important to understand why choosing the right wetsuit is so important. A good wetsuit not only enhances your experience in the water by providing warmth and protection, but it also promotes freedom of movement – a key element in learning to surf. In addition, the right fit is crucial to prevent water pooling, which can cool the body.
Top Wetsuits for Surfing Beginners
Below are some of the best beginner wetsuits based on quality, comfort and value.
O’Neill Reactor 2mm
The O’Neill Reactor is an excellent entry-level wetsuit that offers flexibility and durability at an affordable price. Its 2mm thickness is ideal for milder water temperatures and provides a good balance between warmth and freedom of movement. Additional features such as the seamless paddle design in the armpit area increase mobility and prevent chafing.
Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 3/2mm
This suit is designed for beginners who want to surf in cooler waters. With its 3/2mm thickness, the Dawn Patrol provides extra insulation without restricting movement. The E5 neoprene construction provides excellent stretch, while the Flash lining on the chest and back provides extra warmth.
Quiksilver Prologue 2/2mm
The Quiksilver Prologue is another great option for beginners, especially because of its value. It combines flexibility with comfort and is made from Freemax neoprene, known for its excellent stretch. The Prologue is perfect for surfers looking for a lightweight and flexible suit for warmer conditions.
What Beginners Should Look for When Choosing
In addition to brand and model, beginners should also look for certain features that best suit their needs, including
- Thickness: The thickness of the wetsuit, measured in millimeters, affects warmth. Beginners should consider the water temperatures of their surfing area to choose the appropriate thickness.
- Fit: A good fit is critical. A suit that is too tight can restrict movement, while one that is too loose may not provide sufficient warmth. Many brands offer sizing charts to help you find the ideal fit.
- Closure: The suit’s closure (back, chest, or zipperless) affects both comfort and ease of donning and doffing. Beginners often prefer back zippers for ease of use.
The right wetsuit can make the difference between a good and a great surf session, especially for beginners. By focusing on quality, comfort, and value, you can find a wetsuit that will ease your transition into surfing while providing protection and warmth. The O’Neill Reactor, Rip Curl Dawn Patrol and Quiksilver Prologue stand out as excellent examples of suits that can support beginner surfers.
Choosing the right wetsuit is an important step towards successful surfing. With the right information and careful selection, this step becomes an exciting part of every beginner’s surfing journey.
