Table of Contents
Who said that sailing is a sport for the summer months only? As long as the water isn’t frozen, sailing can be enjoyed all year round. In fact, during spring and autumn, the winds often blow stronger, making these seasons ideal for sailing. However, to make the most of your sailing experience in any season, the right gear is essential, and this is where wetsuits and drysuits come into play.
Both wetsuits and drysuits aim to protect your body from the cold and the elements, though they achieve this in different ways. Understanding how each suit works is the first step in deciding which one will best suit your sailing needs.
Wetsuits
Wetsuits are typically made from neoprene, a stretchy, water-resistant material with excellent insulating properties. These suits function by trapping a thin layer of water between the wetsuit and your skin. This water is warmed by your body heat, creating a layer of insulation that helps reduce heat loss. As such, a wetsuit won’t keep you dry, but it will help maintain your body warmth by slowing down heat loss through convection.
Sailing wetsuits come in a variety of thicknesses, typically ranging from 2mm to 7mm. The thicker the wetsuit, the better the insulation it provides. However, thicker options are also bulkier, which can affect comfort and mobility. This is one thing to consider when buying a sailing wetsuit.
Drysuit
Drysuits, on the other hand, are made from materials such as neoprene, vulcanised rubber, or laminated fabrics. Unlike wetsuits, drysuits seal tightly around the neck, wrists, and ankles, preventing water from entering. This waterproof barrier keeps you completely dry, making drysuits ideal for colder environments where water temperatures are too low for a wetsuit to be effective.
One advantage of drysuits is that they allow you to wear additional layers of clothing underneath for extra insulation, giving you more control over your body temperature.
Comparing Warmth
The choice between a wetsuit and a drysuit largely depends on the water temperature and the length of time you’ll be in the water. For moderate water temperatures (above 10°C) and shorter activities, a wetsuit should provide sufficient insulation, especially if you’ll be in and out of the water frequently.
For colder temperatures (below 10°C) and longer sailing sessions, a drysuit is the better option. Because drysuits keep you fully dry and allow for additional thermal layers, they offer superior warmth. If staying warm and dry is your main priority, especially in colder conditions, a drysuit is the ideal choice.
Comparing Flexibility and Mobility
Flexibility is one of the key differences between wetsuits and drysuits. Wetsuits are designed to fit snugly against your body and are made from stretchy neoprene, allowing for a full range of motion. This makes wetsuits particularly suited to activities like sailing, where agility and rapid movement are important.
Drysuits, while excellent for warmth and protection, offer less flexibility. The thicker material and the air trapped inside can make movement more cumbersome, particularly when wearing extra thermal layers beneath the suit.
Comparing Durability and Maintenance
While both wetsuits and drysuits require proper care to maintain their performance and longevity, their maintenance needs differ slightly.
Wetsuits, made from stretchy neoprene, are more susceptible to damage from sunlight, saltwater, and friction with boards and sailing equipment. To maintain your wetsuit, rinse it with fresh water after each use, dry it away from direct sunlight, and store it flat or on a wide hanger to prevent creases. Though frequent exposure to harsh conditions can shorten a wetsuit’s lifespan, proper care can help it last several seasons.
Drysuits are designed for more extreme conditions and generally offer greater durability. However, the seals around the neck, wrists, and ankles are fragile and require regular inspection and maintenance. Given their higher price point, it’s important not to overlook the upkeep of a drysuit. With proper care, a drysuit can last longer than a wetsuit.
What to Consider When Buying a Wetsuit
When purchasing a sailing wetsuit, ensuring the correct size is one of the most important factors. A wetsuit that is too loose won’t trap water effectively, reducing its insulation. The wetsuit should fit snugly against your body without any bagginess or excessive creasing, as this can allow cold water to flush through, defeating the purpose of the suit. At the same time, the wetsuit shouldn’t be so tight that it restricts movement, especially under the arms, which could make swimming difficult.
Thickness is another key consideration. For warmer climates or summer sailing, a thinner wetsuit (2mm to 3mm) offers better flexibility and comfort while still providing adequate warmth in milder waters. In contrast, a thicker wetsuit (4mm to 5mm) is better suited for colder conditions, offering more insulation against the wind and water.
Some wetsuits also feature thermal linings that enhance warmth. These linings trap body heat more efficiently than standard neoprene, helping you stay warm for longer, even in cold winds or water. Thermal linings also tend to dry faster and feel softer against the skin, improving both comfort and performance—particularly useful if you’ll be exposed to varying weather conditions or spending extended periods in the water.
What to Consider When Buying a Drysuit
When choosing a drysuit, durability and waterproofing are the two most critical factors. Opt for drysuits made from robust, waterproof materials such as Gore-Tex or trilaminate fabrics, which can withstand the harsh marine environment and keep you dry.
Fit is just as important with drysuits as it is with wetsuits. A drysuit that’s too tight will restrict movement, while one that’s too loose may allow water to seep in. Adjustable cuffs, neck seals, and built-in booties or socks help ensure a snug fit while keeping water out and allowing for flexibility.
Breathability is another essential feature in a drysuit, especially during active sailing. A breathable fabric will help prevent overheating and excess sweating inside the suit. Reinforced areas like the knees and elbows can add durability, while features such as pockets, hoods, and reflective elements offer added convenience and safety.
Finally, consider whether you prefer a front-zip or back-zip drysuit. Front-zip suits are easier to get in and out of without assistance, making them a popular choice for solo sailors. It would help if you also accounted for thermal insulation and layering options since drysuits don’t provide warmth on their own.