Choosing the right wetsuit depends on a combination of water temperature, activity type, session length, and personal comfort. While all wetsuits are designed to provide insulation and protection in the water, different styles and thicknesses offer varying levels of warmth, flexibility, and coverage.
This guide explains the main types of women’s wetsuits, how thickness affects warmth, and how to choose the most suitable option for warm to temperate water conditions.
Explore our full range of women’s wetsuits designed for different water conditions and activities.
What Does a Wetsuit Do?
A wetsuit works by trapping a thin layer of water between the suit and the body, which is gradually warmed by body heat. This water is warmed by body heat, creating insulation that helps maintain comfort in cooler or windy conditions. In addition to warmth, wetsuits also provide:
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Protection from wind and sun exposure
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Added comfort during longer sessions
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Support and coverage for active water use
Different designs prioritise warmth, flexibility, or minimal coverage depending on how and where they’re used.
Understanding Wetsuit Thickness
Wetsuit thickness refers to the thickness of the neoprene material, usually measured in millimetres (mm). Thicker wetsuits provide more insulation, while thinner options prioritise flexibility and freedom of movement.
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Lighter thicknesses (around 1.5–2mm) are commonly chosen for warm-water conditions, travel, and shorter sessions. They offer light insulation and sun protection while remaining easy to move in.
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Thicker wetsuits (such as 3/3mm) provide additional warmth and coverage, making them more suitable for cooler or windier conditions and longer sessions in the water.
Factors like wind, session length, and individual sensitivity to cold can all influence how warm a wetsuit feels, so thickness selection is often a matter of personal preference rather than a fixed rule.
What do thickness numbers like 3/2mm or 4/3mm mean?
When a wetsuit is described as 3/2mm, 3/3mm, or 4/3mm, the numbers refer to the thickness of the neoprene panels used in different parts of the suit. The first number typically indicates the thickness through the torso, where warmth is most important, while the second number refers to the thickness used in the arms and legs, where flexibility and ease of movement are prioritised.
For example, a 3/2mm wetsuit uses slightly thicker neoprene through the core for insulation, combined with thinner panels through the limbs to support mobility. A 3/3mm wetsuit offers more uniform insulation throughout the suit, while a 4/3mm wetsuit provides increased warmth through the body for cooler conditions, with slightly thinner panels in high-movement areas.
This panel distribution helps balance warmth and flexibility, allowing wetsuits to be adapted to different water conditions and activity levels.
Types of Women’s Wetsuits
Women’s wetsuits come in a range of styles designed for different conditions and activities. Understanding these options can help narrow down the right choice.
Fullsuit Wetsuits
Fullsuits feature long sleeves and full-length legs, offering the most coverage and insulation. They are commonly chosen for cooler conditions or longer sessions where warmth and protection are priorities.
Explore our full range of full wetsuits for women.
Springsuits
Springsuits are lighter wetsuits designed for warm-water conditions. They typically offer shorter leg coverage or lighter insulation while maintaining flexibility. Springsuits are often used for summer surfing, travel, and active water sports.
Browse our collection of women’s springsuits for warm-water sessions.
Long Jane & Short Jane Wetsuits
Long Jane wetsuits provide insulation through the torso and legs while leaving the arms free, allowing greater upper-body movement. Short Jane styles offer similar construction with shorter legs, making them suitable for warmer conditions.
Discover our Long Jane wetsuits designed for flexibility and comfort.
Surf Vests & Neoprene Tops
Neoprene vests and tops provide light insulation and core warmth without restricting arm movement. These pieces are often used on their own in warm water or layered with other neoprene items depending on conditions.
Explore our range of neoprene vests for lightweight insulation.
One-Piece Neoprene Swimsuits
One-piece neoprene swimsuits combine the streamlined feel of swimwear with light insulation and support. They are typically chosen for warm-water conditions where minimal coverage and ease of movement are preferred.
View our neoprene one-piece swimsuits designed for warm-water activities.
Neoprene Bikinis & Shorts
Neoprene bikini sets and shorts offer light insulation and added support compared to standard swimwear. These styles are often used for warm-water surfing and active days in the ocean where flexibility and minimal coverage are key.
Browse neoprene bikinis for active warm-water sessions.
In recent years, women’s wetsuits have evolved beyond purely technical black designs, with more attention given to fit, colour, and aesthetic expression — reflecting a broader shift toward wetsuits that feel as considered as the women who wear them.
Choosing Based on Water Conditions
When selecting a wetsuit, it’s helpful to consider the overall conditions rather than focusing on temperature alone. Wind, water exposure time, and activity level all play a role in how warm a wetsuit feels.
Many surfers and swimmers opt for lighter wetsuits or neoprene pieces in warm conditions, while choosing thicker or more covered styles when sessions are longer or conditions are less predictable. Layering neoprene pieces can also provide flexibility across changing conditions.
Fit, Comfort, and Personal Preference
Fit is one of the most important factors when choosing a wetsuit. A well-fitting wetsuit should feel snug without restricting movement or breathing. Comfort preferences vary between individuals, with some people naturally feeling colder than others.
Activity also matters — surfers who paddle frequently may prioritise flexibility through the shoulders, while swimmers may prefer streamlined designs with minimal bulk.
Materials & Construction
Modern wetsuits are made using a range of materials and construction techniques that influence warmth, flexibility, and durability. Limestone-based neoprene is commonly used for its stretch and performance characteristics, while seam construction can affect comfort and water resistance.
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Flatlock stitching offers flexibility and comfort, often used in lighter wetsuits for warmer conditions.
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Glued and blind-stitched (GBS) seams create a more watertight construction, helping retain warmth during longer sessions.
Understanding these elements can help when comparing different wetsuit styles and deciding what best suits your needs.
Finding the Right Wetsuit for You
There’s no single “right” wetsuit for everyone. The best choice depends on where you surf or swim, how long you spend in the water, and what feels comfortable for your body and activity. Starting with an understanding of thickness, style, and fit can make choosing a wetsuit far simpler — and more enjoyable.
To explore all styles and find the right wetsuit for your needs, visit our complete women’s wetsuit collection.
