Hello Gang,
Today we're going to learn how to choose the right wetsuit to make the most of your experience on the waves of Biscarrosse.
The wetsuit is one of the most important pieces of your surfing gear. It keeps you warm and protects you from the elements while offering optimal freedom of movement.
But how do you choose the right combination? What criteria should be considered?
We will give you all the information you need to make the best choice.
1. Choosing the type of wetsuit
There are several types of wetsuits, each suited to specific surfing conditions.
Long-sleeved, long-legged wetsuits are perfect for cold waters, while short-sleeved, short-legged wetsuits are better suited to warmer waters.
Furthermore, most wetsuits are classified by thickness in millimeters (mm), ranging from 1mm to 6mm. The colder the water, the thicker the wetsuit should be.
2. Choosing the right size wetsuit
It is important to choose a wetsuit that fits your body perfectly. A wetsuit that is too big can cause chafing and water entry, while a wetsuit that is too small will be uncomfortable and will not allow you to move freely.
Take the time to try different sizes to find the one that fits you best.
3. Choosing the materials for your wetsuit
The suits are mostly made of neoprene, a material that allows you to stay insulated from the cold water.
- Classic neoprene:
Neoprene is a rubber developed by the company "Du Pont de Nemours" in 1931. Originally, air bubbles were added to make it more flexible and transform it into neoprene foam, the material used to make wetsuits.
However, the raw material used for this neoprene is petroleum, which made using the suit uncomfortable in hot weather (heat can create an exchange between the skin and the suit).
Today, wetsuit manufacturers have stopped using petroleum and have introduced new, more environmentally friendly types of neoprene.
- Limestone:
This neoprene is made from limestone. For this neoprene, the raw material (petroleum) is replaced by limestone. This mineral then undergoes several processes to obtain the same properties as conventional neoprene. Carbon black (produced from recycled tires) is added to the limestone.
The composition of these combinations is then 70% limestone and 30% black carbon.
Currently, all brands use this neoprene; it has become a standard.
- Oysterprene:
Another type of eco-friendly neoprene is oysterprene, made from oyster shell powder. This recent innovation (invented in 2020, thanks to the initiative of “Sooruz”) was created to replace limestone, which is difficult to produce, with a renewable and readily available material.
- Yulex or naturalprene:
Patagonia also innovated with Yulex, also called Naturalprene, composed of 85% natural rubber made with rubber tree sap and 15% synthetic rubber for UV resistance.
The brand even shares the composition of this suit with any other brands that wish to do so. Although rubber production can lead to deforestation, major brands like Patagonia source their rubber from FSC or PEFC certified forests, which do not participate in deforestation.
- Bioprene:
Finally, bioprene is a thermal insulator made from natural and renewable raw materials, such as rubber tree sap, sugar cane, and oyster shells. This innovation was developed by the Sooruz brand.
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In conclusion, choosing the right wetsuit is crucial for making the most of your surf sessions in Biscarrosse. Several factors must be considered, such as water temperature, size, thickness, and neoprene type, to find the perfect wetsuit for you. A well-fitting and comfortable wetsuit can make all the difference between a pleasant and an unpleasant surf session at the Biscarrosse surf spots.
Come to Gang Surf now! rent our wetsuits !
