A neoprene suit that traps a thin layer of water against your skin, which your body heats to provide thermal insulation in cold water.
Wetsuits work by allowing a small amount of water inside, which your body warms. The neoprene then insulates this warm water layer, keeping you comfortable in cold conditions. Thickness is measured in millimeters — a "3/2" wetsuit has 3mm neoprene on the torso and 2mm on the arms and legs.
Thicker suits (5/4, 6/5) are for cold water, thinner suits (2mm shortie) are for mild conditions. In tropical water (above 24°C), most riders skip the wetsuit entirely. Key types: full suit (full arms and legs), spring suit (short arms and/or legs), shorty (short everything), and rash guard (no insulation, just sun and abrasion protection).
Fit is critical — a loose wetsuit flushes constantly with cold water and defeats the purpose. A well-fitting wetsuit should feel snug with no air gaps.
Example usage
"Water was 14°C — my 4/3 wetsuit kept me warm for a 2-hour session. Hands got cold though, need gloves next time."
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