Cheap wetsuits from different manufacturers will have different features for improved performance and as selling points. Many features advertised are nothing but gimmicks but some are very useful for either performance and comfort. To help you when you purchase your wetsuit we’ve put together some information on the most useful features.
Neoprene
This is a rubber foam material that is lined for stretch and warmth with a jersey fabric. A better fit can be achieved with a more elastic fabric but it will be at the cost of a shorter life time of use. It is not necessary to use a stretchy fabric in all areas, around the knees for instance, and a stronger fabric can be used in these areas instead.
Construction of Seams
Wetsuit construction includes panels to ensure a good fit. In order to achieve a better fit some suits are made with more panels. This is fine but it does entail more seams which then leads to a loss in flexibility. There should not be seams in areas that can cause chafing such as behind the knees or around the neck. Also areas that will reduce the ability to move, such as across the shoulders or under the arms.
Stitching Types
Blindstitching and flatlocking are the types of stitching used in the making of wetsuits. In higher quality wetsuits blindstitching is most often used. Before stitching the seam is glued, then a needle used that does not puncture the material all the way through. No hole through the fabric means a watertight seam. As the process is labor intensive it also costs more. In flatlocking a flexible and strong seam is produced but the needle passes right through the material so it is not watertight. It is a feature of summer wetsuits only as it is not really suitable for winter suits.
Liquid Sealed Seams
A rubber compound can be used to seal the seam and make it watertight. flexibility is important in some areas and, as the rubber compound reduces this it cannot be used in these areas.
Different Types of Neoprene Coating
Wetsuits use two types of neoprene, PU printing and WRC (water repellent coating). A water repellent chemical is used on the top half of WRC wetsuits. Less water is absorbed by the fabric and the wetsuit is therefore lighter and warmer. PU printing is a process that is used to make the neoprene more resistant to abrasion damage and therefore more durable.
Batwings
Used in most expensive wetsuits, batwings are thin pieces of neoprene that are sewn inside the zipper to prevent the entry of cold water, thus making the wetsuit warmer and more comfortable.
Wrist, Ankle and Neck Seals
It is necessary to have seals at ankle, wrist and neck snug enough so that water does not leak in but loose enough that they do not rub or cause irritation. Some points you should consider are a good fit with a soft, elastic neoprene and not too many seams.
How Much Will a Wetsuit Cost?
Enhanced performance is achieved in more expensive wet suits through the use of blindstitching and super stretch material. Although these features are nice they can lower the strength of the wetsuit and lead to a shorter life. It is really a balance between your budget, how much you want better performance as opposed to durability and a longer lasting suit. A wetsuit needs to be comfortable if you are in it for long periods so buy the best, most flexible one within your budget.
Conclusion
Look for the best neoprene wetsuit that is flexible, comfortable and fits well that you can afford.
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