How to choose your wetsuit?
A wetsuit protects against the cold, wind, and chafing. Choosing one depends on the water and air temperature, the type of sailing, and body shape. Here are the 5 points to check.
1. Neoprene thickness
Thickness is chosen based on water temperature. As a general guide: 1.5 to 2 mm for summer, 3 mm for mid-season, 4/3 mm and more for autumn and winter. Examples: WIP SUMMER NEO LONG JOHN WOMEN 1.5 mm, Magic Marine 2 mm Magic long john, WIP NEO LONG JOHN MK2 3 mm, Racing Fullsuit FZ 4/3 GBS, WIP STEAMER MK3 5/4/3 mm. A double thickness (e.g., 3/2) indicates thicker neoprene on the torso and thinner neoprene at the joints.
WIP SUMMER NEO LONG JOHN WOMEN 1.5 mm Wetsuit
2. The cut
A shorty (short legs and arms) is suitable for warm water, such as the Magic Marine 3/2 mm Brand shorty. A long john (sleeveless) keeps the arms free for dinghy and catamaran sailing and can be paired with a technical top. A fullsuit covers the arms and legs, like the 3/2 mm Brand Fullsuit. For winter sailing, a drysuit is worn with insulating layers underneath, like the Magic Marine Regatta Drysuit Fzip.
Magic Marine 3/2 mm Brand neoprene shorty
3. Seams and closure
Flatlock seams are flat and allow some water to pass through: they are suitable for temperate waters. GBS seams (glued and blind-stitched) limit water entry, as seen on the 3 mm Racing Long John GBS. A back zip makes it easier to put on, while a front zip (FZ) reduces water entry in the back and allows you to dress alone.
Magic Marine 3 mm Racing Long John GBS
4. Reinforcements based on use
Hiking puts strain on the back of the thighs and the seat area: reinforcements or battens reduce wear and pressure, as on the 3/2 mm Horizon Hiking Long John. For foiling boats, dedicated models like the SLAM FOIL LONG JOHN 1.5 prioritize freedom of movement. Knee pads protect the wetsuit during catamaran sailing.
Magic Marine 3/2 mm Horizon Hiking Long John
5. Size and body shape
A wetsuit should be snug without restricting breathing: a pocket of water between the neoprene and the skin reduces insulation. Women's cuts are available, such as the Elite 4/3 FZ Woman fullsuit, as well as junior models: 3/2 mm Brand Fullsuit Junior, Windesign 3 mm Junior Boy's Long John, and Windesign 3 mm Junior Girl's Long Jane. Consult the brand's size guide (Magic Marine, WIP, Windesign, Rooster).
Magic Marine Elite 4/3 FZ Woman fullsuit
Find all models in our fullsuits, long johns, shorties, and drysuits collection.
