This article will save you from having to change your wetsuit regularly; your wallet and the planet will thank you for it.
Here's a quick guide to follow based on our experience and that of our pro riders to have a more durable surf wetsuit in less than 5 minutes after each session.
If you follow these quick tips, each taking less than 5 minutes post-surf, your wetsuit, warmth and neoprene flexibility will last longer.
1) Rince your Wildsuits Wetsuit with clear water after each session
This removes sand and properly cleans the inside and out of your suit. Use cold water as too hot will damage the neoprene. Even if you had a late session and are feeling lazy, don’t forget to wash it out the following morning
2) Allowing your wetsuit to dry naturally will make it more durable.
We advise drying your suit inside or in warm, shady outside areas. Don’t dry your wetsuit in direct sunlight, near the radiator, in the car and definitely not with a hair dryer!
Sunlight and high temperatures destroy the nitrogen molecules within wetsuits, in turn allowing water to enter through the neoprene. It could also cause the glue on the internal tape to melt and peel off.
3) Don’t leave your wetsuit wet
Wetsuits are not designed to stay wet after sessions. To look after it, make sure you hang it up and store it in a dry place. If you leave your wetsuit wet for a long time it will develop germs and bacteria, which will give off an unpleasant odour. A little extra tip; turn your suit the right way round once the inside is dry to allow it to totally crisp up.
4) From time to time, wash your wetsuit with care
You can use a solution of vinegar and water, which will eliminate all odors (bacteria and germs) without harming your wetsuit or the environment. Some "specialized" shampoos, with an unknown acute toxicity of 8% and have never been subjected to environmental toxicity tests, should be avoided in our opinion.
If you follow these quick tips, your wetsuit neoprene will last longer and keep your suit warm and flexible, allowing you to have extra long and wild sessions.
If you have any other questions on how to improve the longevity of your Wildsuits wetsuit, or if you have any advice you think we’ve missed, don’t hesitate to contact us.