How Long Does a Wetsuit Last?

Jörg Matzdorff
Jörg Matzdorff

Share Article

When determining how long your wetsuit may last, the main factors are the quality of your suit, how often you use your wetsuit, and for what purpose. If you are an avid surfer and are in the water multiple times per week, then your wetsuit will definitely not last as long as someone who only paddleboards a few times per year.

The average lifespan of a wetsuit is about 4 years to 10 years or more, depending on how heavily you use it. A cheaper brand wetsuit may only last a season or two before zippers start to malfunction. 

If you take care of your wetsuit and properly rinse it with fresh water and hang it to dry after each use, your wetsuit can last for many years. This article will look at the various factors that affect how long a wetsuit lasts and some tips to help prolong the life of your wetsuit.

Key Takeaways:

  • Low-quality wetsuits can have some issues that may shorten their lifespan
  • Depending on your sport and how often you use your wetsuit, it may last dozens or even hundreds of sessions.
  • A good wetsuit from a quality manufacturer should last anywhere from 4 years to 10 years or more
  • If you’re buying a wetsuit to wear, don’t skimp on quality
  • The type of sport or water activity you use your wetsuit for will also affect how long it lasts

Why Does Wetsuit Quality Matter?

The difference in price between a cheap wetsuit and a high-quality wetsuit can be hundreds of dollars, but the difference in lifespan can be several years. A wetsuit is an important investment for any surfer, and it’s worth taking the time to choose a suit that will last.

The quality of your wetsuit is the most important factor in how long it will last. A higher-end, name-brand wetsuit will definitely last longer than a cheap, knock-off brand. If you are serious about water sports, then you should consider investing in a higher-quality wetsuit. 

There is usually a difference in quality between wetsuit price ranges, with high-end manufacturers employing techniques that last longer than their lower-cost counterparts. The most significant differences that can be seen when comparing two wetsuits side by side are in things like:

  • Zippers, 
  • Seams and stitching, and the 
  • Construction of high-contact parts 

Low-quality wetsuits can have some issues that may shorten their lifespan, such as:

  • Poorly glued or sewn seams that come undone 
  • Zippers that corrode or break 
  • Thin neoprene that tears easily

If you buy a cheap wetsuit, it is important to inspect it carefully before using it. If there are any loose seams or faulty zippers, it is best to return them or exchange them for a different one. There may also be issues that aren’t immediately apparent. For example, a cheap wetsuit with an inferior zipper would be pretty disastrous because cold water could seep in through the zipper.

Recommendation:

If you’re buying a wetsuit to wear, don’t skimp on quality; even if your budget is tight, you’ll be able to tell that the technology and materials in a higher-end class of wetsuit become obsolete long before the wetsuit itself wears out.

How the Type of Sport has an Influence on Wetsuit Longevity

The type of sport or water activity you use your wetsuit for will also affect how long it lasts. Wetsuits that are meant for surfing will not last as long as those made for scuba diving, for example. This is because surfing puts more wear and tear on a wetsuit than other water activities. Let’s look at various water sports and how they affect your wetsuit’s durability and longevity.

1. Surfing

When you are surfing, you are constantly rubbing against the sand and saltwater, which can break down the neoprene material over time. You are also more likely to rip or tear your wetsuit when surfing than when participating in other water activities.

If you’re a surfer that wants to surf almost every day, you’ll need a performance-oriented surf wetsuit with an anatomical cut, enough stretch for all-day surfing, and the appropriate water temperature stitching.

For surfers who want a lightweight, super-stretchy suit, high-end wetsuits are ideal. Wetsuits with a lot of stretch are required by frequent surfers.

2. Paddle & Kayak

If you are paddling or kayaking, your wetsuit will not experience as much wear and tear as it would if you were surfing. However, you are still likely to get some saltwater and sand on your wetsuit, which can break down the neoprene material over time.

If you paddle or kayak often, investing in stretchy, high-quality pieces is the best method; if you only swim occasionally, a budget-friendly standard stretch paddle wetsuit will be enough. One good thing to look out for is wetsuits with reinforced areas like on the buttocks and knees. This will make your suit last longer in high-wear areas.

3. Diving

Diving wetsuits, like surf wetsuits, can also be subjected to wear and tear. Divers use neoprene, which is different from regular wetsuit neoprene in that it is more robust. This is because when you are diving, you are constantly rubbing against the sand and saltwater, which can break down the neoprene material over time.

Diving wetsuits also have different cuts than regular wetsuits. They are designed to allow divers to move more easily in the water. Diving wetsuits also have different closures than regular wetsuits. They have zipper closures instead of Velcro closures.

Diving wetsuits are also usually made with a thicker neoprene material than regular wetsuits. This is because when you are diving, you are exposed to colder water temperatures than when you are surfing or paddling. It’s also true that the more flexible the neoprene, the more likely it is to wear out. 

If you only go underwater a few times per year, a low-cost suit may be adequate. Neoprene can become less elastic and stretchy with time. If you dive frequently, you will appreciate a soft and stretchy suit and get your money’s worth. 

4. Triathlon & Swimming (Water Aerobics, Lap Swimming, Etc.)

Swimming wetsuits or triathlon suits can take a beating, and triathlons frequently demand that you get in and out of them fast, step on them, and throw them at whatever is available. In addition, these kinds of suits are often worn in chlorinated pool water, which is a severe danger to neoprene.

Additionally, triathlon wetsuits are entirely composed of slippery materials, and if you’re not careful putting them on or taking them off, this can result in a fingernail crack. Rips in surf wetsuits’ smooth skin region are possible, but triathlon wetsuits are more likely to rip since they are extremely flexible and soft and must be put on and removed rapidly during a race.

How to Take Care of Your Wetsuit

Taking care of your wetsuit is important if you want it to last. This means rinsing it in fresh water and hanging it to dry after every use. You should also avoid storing your wetsuit in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as this can damage the neoprene material. If you take care of your wetsuit, it can last for many years. However, if you use it frequently, you may need to replace it every few years.

How often you need to replace your wetsuit depends on how often you use it and how well you take care of it. If you use your wetsuit frequently, you may need to replace it every two to three years. If you take good care of it and only use it occasionally, you may be able to get five to ten years out of it.

In order to prolong the life of your wetsuit, it is important to take care of it. Here are some basic tips on how to do so:

  • Do not use your wetsuit in pools.
  • If you are a saltwater swimmer, rinse your wetsuit often.
  • Transport and store your wetsuit carefully.
  • Don’t store your wetsuit in the sun
  • Patch tears and holes when you see them

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prolong the life of your wetsuit:

1. Fresh Water Rinse

Saltwater also destroys the neoprene and any glue that holds the seams of your wetsuit together. Before you take off your suit, rinse off well in the showers, especially if you are not going straight home to finish cleaning.

Clean the inside and outside of your wetsuit to get rid of the trapped saltwater after rinsing it at home. Be sure to use cool water, as hot water will also attack the materials in your wetsuit. Over time, skipping this step will cause holes and tears in your suit because of the saltwater breakdown.

2. Washing your Wetsuit

If you rinse your suit well and dry it properly, you do not need to soap it after every use. Nevertheless, you should wash it after a few uses. This will keep it fresh and free from bacteria. To properly wash your wetsuit:

  1. Fill your tub with cold water and wash it by hand.
  2. Use a special shampoo for wetsuits or something super mild like baby shampoo.
  3. Do not scrub, but make sure it gets a good lather.
  4. NEVER put it in the washing machine or dryer because wetsuits are delicate garments, the washing machine will break them, and the heat of the dryer will ruin them

3. Hanging and Drying your Wetsuit

The best way to dry your wetsuit is by hanging it. Do not put it in the sun or in the dryer, as this will damage the neoprene. Instead, hang it up and find a shady place to dry it. Use your shower rod, outside in the garage, or outside in the shade are all good spots.

Get a hanger wide enough to hang your wetsuit through flat at the waist. You don’t want to bunch it up and leave wet spots everywhere. Hang it inside out first, then turn it right side out again once that side is dry.

4. Storing Your Wetsuit

If you reuse your wetsuit immediately, fold the arms and legs into themselves and through the middle, and then put it on your surf equipment. If you use it within a week, put it in a dark, cool place. Avoid hanging it up in a way that will cause permanent wrinkles over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few frequently asked questions about wetsuit longevity and care, as well as wetsuit replacement and more.

Jörg Matzdorff
Jörg Matzdorff

Outdoor and surfing enthusiast.