How to choose the right wetsuit for your surf camp?
You’ve booked your surf camp, laid out your sunglasses, and your stoke is high—but which wetsuit should you bring? A good wetsuit is essential for comfort, freedom of movement, and keeping you warm in the water. In this blog post, we’ll explain what to consider when choosing the right wetsuit for your surfing adventure.
The thickness: when do you choose 3/2, 4/3 or 5/4?
The thickness of a wetsuit determines its warmth. This thickness is expressed in millimeters, for example, 3/2 mm. The first number is for your torso (where you lose the most heat), the second for your arms and legs (for greater flexibility).
3/2 mm
Perfect for spring and summer in France, Spain, and Portugal. Keeps you warm without overheating—ideal for a summer surf camp!
4/3 mm
Suitable for spring and autumn, or if you get cold easily. A little thicker, but still flexible enough for active sessions.
5/4 mm or thicker
Only necessary for colder surf spots or winter sessions. Not ideal for summer camp, unless you’re going to a truly chilly destination.
Sleeveless or sleeveless? Shorty VS Fullsuit
Shorty
A short wetsuit with short sleeves and legs. Super light, plenty of freedom of movement, but only suitable for really warm water. Think high summer in Spain or southern Portugal.
Fullsuit
A wetsuit with long sleeves and legs. This type keeps your body warm, protects against wind, sun, and chafing from your board. Perfect for surf camps in France or Portugal, especially outside the peak season.
Zip location: back zip, chest zip, or zipless?
Back zip
The classic: easy to put on, but sometimes lets in a bit more water. Great for beginners and relaxed surf sessions.
Chest zip
A zipper at the front near your chest. Fits tighter, keeps water out better, and offers more freedom of movement. A bit more difficult to put on, but popular among avid surfers.
Zipless
No zipper, but a stretchy entry at the top. Maximum freedom of movement, minimal water ingress. For the real diehards.
Other handy tips for your wetsuit
- Fit is key: A wetsuit should be snug, but you should still be able to move normally. Too loose = cold, too tight = no fun.
- Test it dry and wet: A wetsuit feels tighter in the water. So try it on properly when dry, and expect a little slack.
- Sun protection: Even in warm water, a wetsuit protects against sunburn.
- Don’t forget your surf booties if you’re heading to a rocky spot or surfing in cold water.
Don’t have your own wetsuit? No worries!
At Brunotti Surfcamps, you can always rent a shorty. This summer wetsuit protects you from the sun, the cold, and your surfboard. Shortys are available for €20 per person per week and can be easily rented on-site. At the end of the week, you return the shorty to your surf instructor.
Want to go to surf camp? Book your surfing holiday with Brunotti Surfcamps now!
