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A quick guide on where to surf and what to wear.
Finding the best wetsuit for surfing in Australia can be easy so long as you know what to look for. But before getting started on the hunt for the best wetsuit, it is best first to get familiar with Australia’s top surfing spots.
Why is Australia a popular surfing destination? Australia is home to some of the most popular surfing spots in the world. Australia is such a popular surfing destination that tourists from all over the world flock to the country every year.
Understanding the unique aspects of each major region in the country is essential before deciding on the appropriate wetsuit to bring. That’s because the temperatures here are different because and the region.
1. Northern Region
The Northern Region is farther from the Sunshine Coast so the waters will be relatively hot. That means no need to wear thick wetsuits even during winter.
What’s important to consider when surfing in the Northern Region are the UV rays from the sun. So, make sure to choose suits that provide UV protection. Check out this Mind of Freedom UV Swimsuit from Roxy.
2. Queensland (Sunshine Coast) to Northern NSW
Moving farther down the country means colder weather. So, if deciding to surf anywhere between Noosa and Yamba, it’s best to have options for summer, winter, and even during the off-peak seasons.
Using a wetsuit with UV protection is vital during the summer. Do consider a thicker suit or even a 1.5mm vest during the shoulder seasons. Check this one from Ocean & Earth. For the winter season, do not hesitate to wear a 3/2 steamer as soon as you feel the cold. Different styles are available, which means staying stylish while surfing during winter is possible.
3. Rest of NSW (Mid-Coast to Southern Region)
During the summer, a 1mm vest will suffice. But if surfing further down the region, then consider a 2mm suit. Come winter, a 3/2 steamer is ideal no matter how long or short a surfer stays in the water. Remember that winter in Sydney and further down the South Coast of NSW guarantee cold waters.
4. Tasmania, Victoria, and South Australia
These three regions are further down south compared to the previous ones on the list.
When surfing in one of the warmer parts of the region during the summer, using a spring suit is okay. However, this can only be applicable when it’s a relatively warm day, and the sun is out.
For the other months of the year, it’s best to wear a steamer. If deciding to go surfing in the middle of the winter, it’s best to use a 4/3.
Booties and hoods are also necessary when surfing during the dead of winter. Surfing with the kids? Make sure to get them one of these for proper protection from the cold.
5. Western Australia
Western Australia is unique compared to the other regions as it has a longer coastline. This means that the water temperature varies per location.
If surfing in the southern half, wearing a 3/2 steamer during the winter is a must. On the other hand, surfing during the shoulder season could mean just wearing a spring suit. Consider this style from O’Neill for a chic but functional spring suit.
If going up north to surf, surfers would not have any problems with wearing a UV surf tee. But of course, this would still be dependent on how up north they are.
A Guide to Get the Best Wetsuit for Surfing in Australia
After getting familiar with the different water temperatures in the different regions, what comes next? It is time to shop for the best wetsuit for surfing in Australia! Consider the following factors to find the best wetsuit for surfing.
· Wetsuit Thickness
As mentioned earlier, the different regions in Australia have different water temperatures depending on the season. With this, it is kind of crucial to decide on where to surf and what time of the year to do it. These two questions will serve as a guide in determining the wetsuit thickness.
Sensitivity to the cold varies from person to person. But as a general guide, the further down south, the thicker the wetsuit needed.
· Wetsuit Size
Size is another vital factor to consider in choosing the perfect wetsuit for surfing. Keep in mind that sizing may be different from brand to brand. Therefore, it is important always to check the sizing chart from the brand to ensure a correct fit.
The perfect wetsuit for surfing should feel like a second skin. A wet suit that is too small and tight will hinder water sealing which may lead to tears.
A loose wetsuit should be avoided, too. Yes, it can be easier to put on and take off, but a wetsuit that is too large could restrict its functionality. In addition, this could result in an uncomfortable experience in the water.
· Wetsuit Entry System
A wetsuit’s entry system affects the overall function of the suit. Choosing the entry system can depend on the level of surfing skills and the frequency of surfing.
Entry-level suits will have back-zips. These are the easiest way of getting in and out of a suit, but they provide little warmth and ease of movement.
Nowadays, there are more suits available with chest enclosures. This is because this kind of entry system allows back flexibility and maximises paddle flexibility. It also prevents water from seeping through.
The best kind of entry system is no zippers at all. These kinds of suits are the stretchiest suits in the market. There is more flexibility because of the absence of the zipper. Paddling and general movement are improved in this kind of entry system too.
· Wetsuit Stitching
Wetsuit stitching affects the durability of the suit. In addition, it will dictate the suit’s flexibility, sealing capabilities, and overall performance.
Take note of the three main types of seams in wetsuits:
a. Overlock: This kind of stitching is not usually found in high-end suits. This is because this is the simplest way of stitching but is the least effective in preventing water from seeping in.
Overlock stitching also leaves a bulge on the inside of the suit, which can get uncomfortable during surfing. This stitching can usually be found in more affordable wetsuits and summer suits.
b. E-stitch or Flatlock: This is commonly found in entry-level wetsuits. It is effective in keeping the wetsuit in one piece, but it’s not the most ideal stitch for warmth.
Flatlock creates more holes in the fabric which means more water seeping through. This kind of stitching is ideal for spring suits and other suits for the summer.
c. Blindstitch: This is considered the best stitch to make the wetsuit watertight. This results in a wetsuit perfect for cold water because less water seeps through.
Blindstitch is done by gluing together the edges of the panel. Once dry, the panels are then stitched on the inside.
Note, though, that the stitching does not go all the way through the outside part of the panels. This makes wetsuits with blindstitched seams much better in keeping water from seeping in.
Shop for the best wetsuit for surfing in Australia at Slimes Newcastle.
Choosing the best wetsuit for surfing can be challenging, which is why it is important that you have a wide range of options to choose from. Slimes Newcastle has different kinds of wetsuits from different leading brands. So, whether you like cold water surfing or warm water surfing, we have the wetsuit that is perfect for you. Call us on 02 4961 3088 or email newcastlestore@slimes.com.au for enquiries. Browse our website or drop by our store at 496 King St, Newcastle, NSW 2300 to try out a wetsuit.
