Drysuits are designed to help keep your body warm and dry when you are in cold weather. They are great for use in harsh weather conditions or when the temperature falls below 55°F, as they are highly insulated and made from many layers of fabric.
While they are not normally worn as often as wetsuits are when surfing, the best drysuit for surfing can be a great option for keeping you safe and dry from very cold weather.
Choosing the best drysuit for your next surfing outing can be a little tricky, which is why it’s important to keep a few things in mind when shopping.If you are just planning on getting a board for small waves then do check out our best surfboard for small waves post.
Material
The material of a drysuit plays a huge role in how comfortable you will be when you are in the water. High-quality drysuits that are designed for use when surfing are generally going to offer plenty of thermal protection so that you can stay warm when on and in the water.
Neoprene suits are ideal for surfing in colder weather, as they don’t require a lot of additional undergarments, which can make you feel bulky and sluggish. Neoprene suits not only offer warmth and comfort, but tend to be flexible and versatile so that you can easily move in the suit.
Seals
The seals on a drysuit are designed to keep water out of the suit, which could quickly lower your body temperature to a dangerous level, especially when it’s extremely cold out. They need to be tight enough to suction to the body to prevent water from entering the suit, but not so tight that they cut off the circulation to your body.
Latex seals are very common, but some surfers suffer from latex allergies. In this case, it is better to opt for silicone seals, which tend to be a bit more expensive, but are safe for everyone to wear.
Fit and Comfort
It’s imperative that your new drysuit is comfortable when wearing it while surfing or you won’t want to stay out on the water for a long time. Not only does the drysuit need to fit comfortably around the wrists, torso, ankles, and neck, but you want to make sure that it doesn’t bunch. As a side note, if you are a big guy looking for the board, then dont forget to check out our best surfboard for big guys guide
A drysuit that isn’t comfortable for extended periods of time will quickly bring you back in from the water. That’s why you need to give the fit and comfort of the suit a lot of consideration.
Range of Motion
Drysuits that offer a lot of flexibility will be easy to wear and will allow you to maneuver your body when on a surfboard. This is important both when you are on the board or beach or when you fall into the water. It’s important to make sure that you have a wide range of motion when swimming.
Without a great range of motion, you will find that you can’t easily swim and free yourself if you fall into the water. This can be especially dangerous for beginning surfers who simply don’t have the power and control necessary to handle falling in the water and getting back out without problems.
Best Drysuits for Surfing Rundown:
ScubaPro Mens Everdry 4 Drysuit
One of the best features of this drysuit is that it is designed to be incredibly streamlined, which allows you to move freely on and off of the surfboard without feeling constructed or too bulky. The tight seals around the neck, ankles, and wrists keep out any unwanted water.
Thanks to the triple-glued seams, there is very little chance of this suit leaking when in the water. Additionally, the inside layer has a liquid polymer designed to fuse to the neoprene for a waterproof and durable construction that will resist damage and falling apart.
Pros
Highly insulated Neoprene design
Features a zippered leg pocket and large knee pads for falling on the surfboard
Tight fit around the torso, arms, and legs
Lower price makes it highly affordable for most people
Cons
Tends to fit large around the upper back and shoulders
Can be too snug for comfortably wearing undergarments in very cold weather
Bare D6 Pro Dry Suit
This drysuit was designed to be the perfect combination of warmth, comfort, and protection. This is why it is such a popular option not only with surfers, but also with divers. The low profile shoulder zipper is always out of the way when you’re in the water, but is still easily accessible for getting out of the suit.
Thanks to the low profile on the shoulders and arms, surfers won’t have any problems maneuvering their board in or out of the water.
Pros
3 mm neoprene is designed to keep wearers warm and dry when in the water
Metal dry zipper ensures that you can easily get in and out of the suit
High-stretch interior lining ensures that the suit moves with you when surfing
Entire suit is made without a single stitch, reducing the chance of the suit leaking
Cons
Legs are a little bulkier when compared to other similar suits
Higher price tag can put it out of reach of some surfers
Waterproof D10 Pro ISS
The tough and durable waterproof lining in this drysuit is sure to keep any surfer warm and dry even on the coldest days. There aren’t any seams in the crotch or underarm area, which limits problems with wrinkling and cracking on other suits.
Thanks to the no-slip grip of this suit and the anatomical fit that is designed for easy and free movement, it’s comfortable enough to wear for a long time out in the cold ocean without feeling stiff or constrained.
Pros
Quick cuff system on the neck and wrists is fast and easy to use
Designed to help keep the neck warm
ToughTex coating stands up to sharp rocks and coral when a surfer falls off of their board
Ships with dry bag
Cons
Side leg pockets are bulky and can get in the way
Arms tend to be a little stiff
SEAC Men’s Warmdry
Surfing in demanding water conditions takes the right clothing so that you can be sure that you will be warm and protected. This drysuit is packed with great features that make it a comfortable and warm option for long days out on the open water. The blind-stitched seams have Neoprene tape on the inside to keep them sturdy.
Additionally, this drysuit is perfect for spending a lot of time in the water, making it a great option for beginners, as it is sure to keep anyone warm and dry. It’s easy to maneuver in the suit, thanks to the tighter fit.
Pros
4 mm neoprene is designed to withstand regular and rugged use
1000-denier Cordura pockets are perfect for holding gear
Taped collar and smooth wrist closures keep out any water
Comes with storage bag
Cons
Not a lot of traction on the boots
Tends to run a bit tight, so buyers need to choose a larger size to accommodate undergarments
While all four of these dry suits are great for wearing while surfing, the ScubaPro Everdry 4 Suit is the best option.
It’s designed to keep you nice and warm, even in bracing cold water, and also helps protect the entire body from abrasion. Thanks to the over flap on the YKK zipper, there is very little risk of the zipper being damaged and failing.
Additionally, this dry suit is perfectly designed to fit the body snugly and without rubbing or shifting position during the day. However if you are an older surfer then have a look at the best surfboard for older surfers guide.