Surfing demands a lot from swimwear. One moment a surfer is paddling out, the next popping up on a wave, then wiping out in a churning mass of whitewater. A suit needs to hold its durability through it all.
Many surfers learn this lesson the hard way. Excited to hit legendary breaks, they pack favorite beach wear only to discover it’s not up to the task. After particularly epic wipeouts, emerging from the water with tops around necks and bottoms… somewhere else entirely is not uncommon. Red-faced walks of shame back up the beach aren’t as uncommon as you might think.
Experienced surfers know better. The right swimsuit can make or break a surf session. Here’s what to look for to avoid wardrobe malfunctions and focus on what matters – catching waves.
Fit and Function
Snug is the name of the game for surf swimwear. It should hug the body without restricting movement. For women, this usually means a one-piece or sporty bikini. Men can opt for board shorts or sleek jammers.
Long-sleeved one-pieces with high necks provide sun protection and stay put through tumbles in the wash. The compression fit helps surfers feel locked in when popping up on boards.
Those preferring two-pieces should look for high-waisted bottoms and crop tops or racerback styles. Ties and thin straps are a recipe for disaster. Wide, secure straps that won’t budge are essential.
For men, board shorts are classic, but should have a tie waist and be short enough not to tangle legs. Many surfers are switching to tighter, knee-length styles for less drag in the water.
Materials Matter
Fabric is just as important as fit. Durability to withstand salt water, sun, and sand is crucial. Nylon, polyester, or spandex blends are common choices.
Neoprene, used in wetsuits, is popular for surf-specific swimwear. It provides warmth and protection from board rash. Some suits incorporate neoprene panels into traditional swimsuit fabrics for versatility.
Quick-drying material is a must. Putting on a clammy, damp suit for early morning sessions is far from ideal.
Sun Protection
Long days in the water mean serious sun exposure. Many surf suits now come with built-in UV protection. A UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+ offers maximum coverage.
Painful sunburns despite slathering on sunscreen are common surf trip souvenirs. Long-sleeved suits are wise choices for full days in the water.
Those preferring less coverage might consider rash guards over suits. These lightweight shirts provide sun protection and prevent chafing from boards.
Style Points
Functional doesn’t mean unstylish. Surf wear has evolved beyond basic black wetsuits.
Bold colors and patterns dominate the surf world. Tropical prints, color blocking, and retro-inspired designs are popular. Many suits feature cut-outs or mesh panels for fashion-forward looks without sacrificing function.
Mixing and matching is trendy. Patterned tops with solid bottoms or vice versa are common. The key is ensuring all pieces are secure enough for surfing.
Eco-Friendly Options
Surfers have a vested interest in clean oceans. Many brands now offer sustainable options made from recycled materials.
These suits often incorporate recycled fishing nets or plastic bottles. They perform comparably to traditional suits while helping reduce ocean pollution.
Eco-friendly suits can be surprisingly soft and comfortable. Knowing a small difference is being made for the environment adds extra stoke on the waves.
Wetsuits for Cold Water
Cooler climates require more than swimsuits. Wetsuits are essential for keeping warm in cold water.
Wetsuit thickness is measured in millimeters. A 3/2 suit (3mm thick in the body, 2mm in the arms and legs) suits mild temperatures. Colder water might need 4/3 or even 5/4/3 suits.
Fit is crucial. Too loose, and cold water flushes through. Too tight restricts movement. Many surf shops offer wetsuit fittings to find perfect sizes.
Accessories
The right accessories enhance surf experiences and protect from the elements.
Good surf booties keep feet warm and provide board traction. They’re essential for rocky bottoms or cold water. Surf hats or hoods offer extra sun protection and warmth, particularly useful for early sessions with low sun.
Surf gloves help maintain board grip in cold water and protect hands from sun and board rash.
Caring for Surf Wear
Proper care extends surf wear life. Rinsing suits in fresh water after each use removes salt and sand. Avoiding wringing or twisting fabric prevents fiber damage.
Hanging suits to dry in shade preserves them. Direct sunlight fades colors and breaks down fabric over time.
Deeper cleaning requires mild soap designed for technical fabrics. Machine washing or drying can damage suits.
Choosing the Right Suit
With numerous options, choosing surf wear can be overwhelming. Considerations include:
- Surf location: Tropical waters need less coverage than colder climates.
- Session length: Longer sessions might require more sun protection.
- Surfing style: Big wave surfers might prefer more secure, full-coverage options.
- Budget: Quality surf wear can be an investment, but pays off in performance and durability.
The best suit makes a surfer feel confident and comfortable in the water. Trying different styles helps find the perfect fit.
Surf Wear Evolution
Surf wear collections often evolve with skill levels. Beginners might start with basic board shorts and rash guards, graduate to sport bikinis, and eventually amass suit quivers for different conditions.
Dawn patrol sessions at local breaks might call for sleek, easy-to-don one-pieces. Tropical surf trips suit fun, colorful two-pieces with ample sun protection. Cold water adventures require trusty wetsuits.
Each suit tells a story of waves ridden and wipeouts survived. They become part of the surfing journey.
The Future of Surf Wear
Surf wear continues evolving with new technologies and design innovations. Suits with built-in impact protection for big wave surfing, smart fabrics adapting to water temperature, and even shark-deterrent designs are emerging.
Growing ocean conservation awareness is driving more sustainable options. Biodegradable suits made from natural materials like algae are in development.
Whatever the future holds, swimwear keeping pace with surfing demands will always be needed. From towering waves to gentle ripples, the right suit makes all the difference in water time.
Final thoughts: The Right Surfwear
Appreciating surf wear as armor against elements, a second skin in water, and a wave-chasing partner enriches the experience. Choosing wisely and caring well ensures countless rewarding surf sessions.
