How to care for your surfing wetsuit

Your wetsuit is one of the most essential pieces of gear for surfing, and if you take good care of it, you’ll get many more sessions out of it. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been surfing for years, wetsuit care is key to keeping it in top condition.

In this guide, we’ll cover why you need to look after your wetsuit and provide practical steps for doing so.

Why care for your wetsuit?

A wetsuit does more than keep you warm. It provides a barrier between your body and the cold water, helping to regulate your body temperature so you can stay out longer and enjoy the waves. It’s also a financial investment—quality wetsuits don’t come cheap, and replacing one prematurely can take a hit on your budget. Proper care not only extends the lifespan of your wetsuit but also keeps it functioning at its best, retaining flexibility, insulation, and comfort.

Neglecting care can result in stretching, thinning, and even tearing of the neoprene, leaving you cold and uncomfortable in the water. Not to mention, that lingering odour after repeated use could be avoided with the right cleaning routine. Here’s how to give your wetsuit the care it deserves.

Rinse it immediately after every use

Saltwater, sand, and even freshwater can break down the neoprene fabric over time. The first step in wetsuit care is to rinse it thoroughly after each surf session. Use cold or lukewarm water—never hot, as heat can damage the neoprene. Take time to flush out the insides, as salt can accumulate there too.

If you're rinsing it at the beach, avoid using water directly from outdoor showers that may be warm or contaminated with sand. Instead, rinse it at home with clean water for the best results.

Use a wetsuit cleaner occasionally

For a deeper clean, use a wetsuit-specific cleaner every few weeks, especially if you’re surfing regularly. Wetsuit shampoos are formulated to be gentle on neoprene while removing salt, oils, and bacteria that can build up over time. Simply dilute the shampoo in water and soak your wetsuit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Look for wetsuit cleaners that also condition the neoprene, keeping it supple and increasing its lifespan. There are several great options available, and your local surf shop will likely stock the right products.

Dry it the right way

One of the biggest mistakes surfers make is drying their wetsuit in direct sunlight. While it might seem like the fastest way to get it dry, UV rays degrade neoprene, causing it to become brittle and lose its flexibility. Instead, hang your wetsuit in the shade, ideally on a wide hanger designed for wetsuits. A standard hanger can stretch the shoulders of your wetsuit, causing damage over time.

Brands like C-Monsta, Surf Logic, and Northcore make durable, well-designed wetsuit hangers that allow for proper airflow, drying your wetsuit evenly without stretching it. These hangers often come with clips or hooks to keep the wetsuit securely in place, making them a solid investment for any surfer.

To speed up drying, flip your wetsuit inside out after the outside has dried. This ensures both sides are thoroughly dry before your next surf session.

Store it properly

Once your wetsuit is clean and dry, storing it correctly is crucial to prevent creases and maintain its shape. Always hang it on a thick, broad hanger (like those mentioned earlier) to avoid stress points, especially on the shoulders. Avoid folding your wetsuit, as this can create permanent creases in the neoprene.

If space is limited and you need to fold your wetsuit, try to roll it loosely instead, without creating sharp folds. When storing it for long periods, like between seasons, keep it in a cool, dark place where it won’t be exposed to heat or sunlight.

Repair small tears quickly

Even with the best care, wetsuits are vulnerable to minor nicks and tears, especially if you’re surfing over reef or rockier breaks. Don’t ignore these small damages, as they can worsen over time, letting cold water seep in and making the suit less effective.

Luckily, minor repairs can be done at home with wetsuit repair glue or patches. These are available at most surf shops, and the process is straightforward: clean the damaged area, apply the glue, and press it together. Larger tears or damage to seams might require professional repair, so it’s worth checking with your local surf shop for help.

Avoid contact with sharp objects

Finally, one of the simplest ways to prolong the life of your wetsuit is to be mindful of what it comes into contact with. Sharp fins, rocks, or even fingernails can easily puncture or tear neoprene. Take care when putting your wetsuit on and off, and avoid dragging it over rough surfaces.

What about wetsuit accessories?

Items like wetsuit boots, gloves, hoods and rash vests should be treated in the same way as your wetsuit - rinse them out in cool water and hang them to dry, out of direct sunlight.

The C-Monsta wetsuit hanger has specific sections for you to add your wetsuit gloves and boots, to help them dry more easily and retain their shape better.

Conclusion

Looking after your wetsuit isn’t difficult, but it does require some consistent effort. By rinsing it after every session, cleaning it occasionally with wetsuit shampoo, drying it properly on a hanger like the ones from C-Monsta, Surf Logic, or Northcore, and storing it carefully, you can extend the life of your wetsuit and keep it performing at its best for many surf seasons to come.

Take the time to care for your wetsuit—it’ll keep you warmer, more comfortable, and save you from needing a new one sooner than you’d like!

Need a new wetsuit? Check out our range of wetsuits for men and women, from Vissla and Sisstrevolution.