Wetsuit Shops

[Erika!]

Hi,

I'm looking to get a wetsuit for use in the UK for bodyboarding and occassional wakeboarding. Has anyone any suggestions of what thickness to go for? Having always hired them in the past I've never paid any attention to what I've been wearing and so am now finding myself very confused at all the options.

Also, I am based in the London/Surrey area - can anyone recommend a good shop that I can go to with a wide selection for trying on.

Thanks!

[jonny]

try... <edit>
they do cheaper ones too but the main benefit is that they send you a chart to measure yourself. Your suit is then tailored for you.

Guaranteed 100% perfect fit!

For all year round use a 4/3 would be adequate.

Just summer - a 3/2

Scotland or mainly winter use - a 5/4 I'd suggest.

[SingleFin]

Right then... for summer use, most of the time 3/2 mil should be ok, and for winter 4/5 mil will see you through. Having said that though, thickness isn't the only factor - how much do you feel the cold? I know a guy that wears a five mil suit through the summer to stay warm. Also, look at the seams - simple stitched ones won't be as warm as sealed ones - I've worn an o'neill psycho 3/2 (+boots and gloves) all winter with no problems.
Also, try loads on and get one that fits well. A good shop will spend loads of time with you getting one that fits well...

[sinistapenguin]

Definitely try any suit on.

A good fitting 3/2 will keep you warmer than an ill-fitting 5/4.

Salomon have launched a range of wetsuits and the S-Core 4/3 is supposed to be an awesome suit.

I would look at 4/3s for year round in the UK.

Just try suits on and get the one that fits best.

Cheers

Sinista