HOW TO CHOOSE A WETSUIT
 Wetsuits are worn to protect skin from the sun and other marine life, even if it is cold. A wetsuit can be used to protect your skin from the sun and gear when learning how to kiteboard.
While it’s not necessary to wear a suit on the water during the summer, we recommend that you cover up for longer, safer sessions.
How to choose a wetsuit – Assess your needs
- Where are you riding? What are your seasons high and cold temperatures for water and air? What length of season can you ride? What temperature changes do you see during your riding season?
- Do your body get cold easily? What is your personal opinion on warmth?
- How much do you have to spend on your kite, board, and harness? Your wetsuit will determine how comfortable you can ride for as long as possible. Winter requires a wetsuit. It should be 5/4 blind stitched, glued, and it must be at least 4 inches thick. This is a cost-effective investment of $200 to $355.
- Sizing This is crucial for your comfort. A suit should fit snugly, but not too tight. Do your toes touch the floor? Is the length of your arms and legs sufficient? It is not a good idea to have a lot of neoprene around your legs and arms. We recommend that you do not purchase a wetsuit online if it is not fitting correctly. We will exchange the wetsuit for a different size if you call us.
You should look for a tight fit when drying your wetsuit.
Neoprene
This is the main stuff that your suit is made from. This rubber is made from melted petroleum chips and Limestone, which has been around for 80,000,000 years. The Synthetic rubber is infused with tiny nitrogen gas bubbles which give it the flexibility and insulation we seek. Material thickness ranges from 3mm to 9mm. The foam material can be used for windproofing and water absorption. The suit’s mobility decreases with increasing thickness. Suits are often laminated with other materials, depending on their intended function. There are many types of Neoprene available. The suit will last longer and be more comfortable if it is more stretchy.
Thickness Kiteboarders need a wetsuit with a good fit and the right mix of features. You will not be completely dry in wetsuits. The idea is to let a little water in, and your body heat will take care the rest. The thickness of a wetsuit is measured in millimeters. This also impacts heat. For example: 2mm , 3/2mm, 4/3mm. The thickness of the torso is the first number, while the thickness of the extremities is the second. To increase flexibility, less neoprene can be used in the extremities. Thickness increases warmth, but decreases flexibility.
Recommended water temperature + thickness:
- 75-85F 1.5-2mm Neoprene Tops + Board Shorts or similar NPVamp for Ladies
- 65-75F 3/2 Wetsuit – Recommended For The Pamlico Sound!
- 55-65F 4/3 Wetsuit with Base Layer
- 45-55F 5/4mm Wetsuit with Base Layer
- 35-45F Drysuit and base layer
Thermal Linings
Bamboo Charcoal is found in many Mystic suits. Bamboo Charcoal’s antimicrobial and anti-odor qualities are well-known. Bamboo Charcoal is used to make linings for some products. Bamboo Charcoal helps prevent soiling and the growth of bacteria that can cause odors in wetsuits. This is due to saltwater, sweat, body oils, and saltwater. Bamboo Charcoal absorbs far-infrared radiation from the sun and sends it to your body. Although it isn’t visible to the naked eye, you can feel it in your skin as heat, heating your body, and improving blood circulation.
Heat Lock: an ultralightweight inner liner made of a series hollow, tubular yarns. The heat-lock traps body heat and stores it within the yarn’s cavity, making you feel warmer and dryer. Insulating hollow fiber lining which traps and reflects your body heat.
3/2 Winter Wetsuit – These suits allow water to drain through the suit every time it is washed out. A lot of people prefer a shorter wetsuit, such as this Mystic star.
4/3 Simple Kite Surfing Wetsuit This is a complete wetsuit that has been blind stitched and glued. It blocks 90% of water from entering your suit. This suit is essential if you are riding in colder climates.
5/4 insulated suit – This suit is similar to a 4/3, but has more features to keep you warm. To reduce the risk of water splashing during wipeouts, insulation panels are included. These suits are very popular due to their durability and price. These suits also make great surfing wetsuits.
Wind Suit – These suits can be used for kiteboarding or windsurfing. The outer layer is made of smooth skin, which allows water to drain from the suit once you’re riding again. This reduces heat loss due to wind-chill. These wetsuits can be extremely comfortable but are not as durable. These suits are great if you’re careful with your gear and don’t want to surf.
Drysuits – Available from 35 to 45 degrees. There are many layers of underwear that can be used for any weather condition. They are a favorite of those who have ridden them. Although you will have to pay more for them, how much is your riding time?
This post was written by Aaron McClearnon, Owner of Elite Watersports. At Elite Watersports, We strive to provide exceptional service and genuine interactions with those interested in Madeira Florida Kitesurfing. We hold dear our passion for being out on the water and maintain this as our foundation for all business practices.
