Care for Your Wetsuit
Keeping your wetsuit in top condition is key to extending its lifespan and ensuring comfort every time you hit the water. From rinsing after each session to proper storage, these best practices will help you get more out of your gear and maintain that great feel in the water.
Table of Contents
After Every Session
Rinsing: An Essential Step
After a session in the ocean, it's crucial to rinse your wetsuit with clean, cold water. This removes salt and sand. It also removes other impurities. Never use hot water; it can weaken the glues and neoprene. Skip the tumble dryer and washing machine, as these methods accelerate wear. Manual rinsing with cold water is the safest and most durable solution.
Drying: Preserving Neoprene Flexibility
For effective drying, avoid thin hangers that can deform the shoulders of your wetsuit. Instead, opt for a wide hanger or one specifically designed for neoprene. This allows air to circulate inside, especially when the wetsuit is turned inside out. Always dry your wetsuit in the shade, away from direct UV rays.
Deep Care
Cleaning: Hygiene and Freshness
Regular rinsing isn't enough. We recommend disinfecting your wetsuit once or twice a year with a specialized wetsuit shampoo. Dilute the shampoo in a basin or bathtub, let your wetsuit soak, then rinse it thoroughly and wring it out by hand. This treatment eliminates bacteria and odors, keeping your wetsuit clean longer.
UV Protection
UV rays and heat accelerate discoloration and weaken neoprene. To preserve its qualities, always store your wetsuit out of direct sunlight. When drying, choose a ventilated but shaded area. This helps protect the glues and maintain the material's flexibility.
Protecting Your Neoprene
Beware of Velcro
Velcro fasteners, especially those at the ankles or collar, can damage the outer jersey or inner lining. After each session, make sure to secure the Velcro tabs to their designated areas. This prevents them from snagging and damaging your wetsuit.
Putting On and Taking Off: Gentle and Patient
Never yank your wetsuit on or off, and avoid digging your nails into the neoprene. These actions can cause irreversible tears. Take your time and handle the neoprene with care.
Prevention at the Spot
When you take off your wetsuit, pay attention to your changing area. Asphalt or abrasive surfaces can damage the neoprene. A dedicated changing mat bag is a practical solution for safely changing and transporting your wetsuit.
Storage and Lifespan
If you won't be using your wetsuit for a while, store it flat or on a suitable hanger in a dry, dark place. Prolonged storage in poor conditions can weaken the neoprene and reduce the wetsuit's comfort.
By following these best practices, you'll significantly extend your wetsuit's lifespan and enjoy optimal comfort during every session. Nothing beats a clean, flexible, and well-maintained wetsuit for fully enjoying your Surf, Kite, or wingfoil sessions.
FAQ: Neoprene Care
How do I rinse my wetsuit?
After every session, rinse your wetsuit with clean, cold water to wash away salt and sand, as well as other impurities. Never use hot water, a washing machine, or a dryer.
How should you dry your wetsuit?
Hang it inside out on a wide or specialized neoprene hanger. This allows air to circulate, and always keep it in the shade, away from UV rays.
Should you deep clean your wetsuit?
Yes, once or twice a year, use a wetsuit shampoo. Let it soak, rinse thoroughly, then hand-wring it to remove bacteria and odors.
How should you store your wetsuit?
Store it flat or on a suitable hanger in a dry, dark place. This prevents the neoprene from weakening.
Take good care of your wetsuit, and it will last longer.
Neoprene hangers, care shampoos, and changing mats: find everything you need to preserve your gear.
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This guide was written by the GlissEvolution team. These care tips are valid for most wetsuits on the market.
