How to Care for Your Open Water Swimming WetsuitUpdated 12 days ago

How to Care for Your Open Water Swimming Wetsuit

Why Open Water Wetsuits Are Delicate

Open water swimming wetsuits are designed for maximum flexibility, buoyancy, and hydrodynamics, using ultra-stretchy, lightweight neoprene with smooth outer coatings. This specialised material reduces drag in the water and improves performance, but it also makes the wetsuit more fragile than standard surf wetsuits.

The thin, high-stretch neoprene and smoothskin surface are particularly prone to nail nicks, rips, and abrasions if not handled carefully. Treating the wetsuit gently helps preserve its performance and lifespan.

Before Swimming:

• Check your nails: Keep fingernails and toenails trimmed to avoid accidental rips when putting the wetsuit on.

• Use gloves (optional): Thin gloves can help prevent fingernail nicks.

• Apply lubricant: Use a wetsuit-safe lubricant (not petroleum-based) around high-friction areas like the neck, underarms, and ankles to reduce chafing and make it easier to put on/take off.

• Avoid sharp surfaces: Be mindful of rocks, piers, or rough ground that can snag or tear the neoprene.

After Swimming:

1. Rinse Immediately:

   • Rinse thoroughly with fresh, cool water (never hot) to remove salt, chlorine, sand, and dirt.

2. Wash Properly:

   • Occasionally wash with a wetsuit shampoo or mild soap designed for neoprene to remove odors, bacteria, and body oils that can degrade the material.

3. Handle Carefully:

   • Avoid pulling or overstretching when removing the wetsuit, especially around seams and thin panels.

Drying:

• Dry inside out first. Once the inside is dry, turn it right-side out to dry the outside.

• Hang on a wide hanger: Use a wetsuit-specific hanger or fold it at the waist over a thick line or bar. Thin hangers can deform the shoulders.

• Shade only: Dry out of direct sunlight to prevent UV damage that weakens neoprene and breaks down the smooth outer coating.

Storage:

• Store in a cool, dry place away from heat, sunlight, and humidity.

• Hang on a wide hanger or store gently folded without sharp creases.

• Avoid leaving it in a hot car or sealed bag for extended periods, which can cause material breakdown.

Extra Tips:

• Check regularly for small nicks or tears and repair them promptly with wetsuit glue or patches to prevent them from worsening.

• Never machine wash, tumble dry, iron, or bleach.

• Keep away from oils, fuel, sunscreen, and insect repellent, which can degrade the neoprene and smoothskin finish.