What Is The Best Way To Dry A Wetsuit?

There isn’t a surfer on the planet that enjoys putting on a wet wetsuit, especially as we head into the colder winter months. Drying a wetsuit also increases the likelihood of your wetsuit lasting longer and staying fresher. 

So what is the best way to dry a wetsuit?

Here are our top ten ways to dry a wetsuit from the team at 10 Over Surf Shop.

Hang it Properly

Use a wide, padded wetsuit hanger to avoid creating stress points on the shoulders. Hang the wetsuit upside down by the legs, so water can drain out of the torso and arms. Or better yet, use a purposely designed wetsuit hanger like the C-Monsta hanger or the SurfLogic Wetsuit Hanger. 

Avoid Direct Sunlight

While sunlight can help with drying, prolonged exposure can damage neoprene material. Hang it in the shade or in a well ventilated area.

Ventilation

Make sure there is good airflow around the wetsuit. Hanging it in a well ventilated area helps to speed up the drying process. This is as important as the wetsuit being warm.

Flip Inside Out

Due to the nature of how a website repels water it’s always faster to dry the wetsuit inside out.

Avoid Heat Sources

Do not use artificial heat sources like heaters or dryers. High heat can damage the neoprene and other materials in the wetsuit.

Use a Wetsuit Hanger

Invest in a wetsuit hanger designed to distribute the weight of the suit evenly and help it keep its shape.

Shake Out Excess Water

Before hanging, give the wetsuit a good shake to remove excess water.

Drying Rack or Towel

If you're unable to hang the wetsuit, lay it flat on a towel or a drying rack. This may take longer but is better than leaving it bundled up.

Rotate Positions

If possible, rotate the wetsuit on the hanger during the drying process to ensure all parts get adequate airflow.

Clean Before Drying

Rinse the wetsuit with freshwater after each use to remove salt, sand, and other debris. This helps prevent odors and keeps the neoprene in better condition.

Store Properly

Once the wetsuit is completely dry, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Remember that excessive heat and sunlight can degrade the neoprene over time, leading to a shorter lifespan for your wetsuit. Taking the time to dry it properly after each use can significantly extend its life and maintain its performance.