Putting on a winter wetsuit can be a bit of a challenge due to its thickness and snug fit, but with the right technique, it becomes much easier. The key is to be methodical and patient, working the neoprene up your body section by section.
Preparing Your Wetsuit
Before you even attempt to put on your winter wetsuit, a little preparation goes a long way.
- Unzip First: The very first step, as advised, is to make sure the chest zip is undone. This creates the necessary opening to enter the suit. For back-zip wetsuits, ensure the zip is fully open and the cord is accessible.
- Check Orientation: Ensure the wetsuit is not inside out and that the front is clearly identifiable.
Step-by-Step Guide to Donning Your Wetsuit
Follow these steps for a smooth and efficient process:
- Start with the Legs:
- Begin by gathering one leg of the wetsuit, much like putting on tights.
- Ensure the knee pads are facing forward and slide one leg in. This is crucial for comfort and protection when in the water.
- Work the wetsuit material up your ankle and calf, making sure there are no wrinkles or bunching.
- Repeat the process for the second leg, working the material smoothly up to your upper thighs.
- Pull Up to Hips:
- Once both legs are in, gently pull the wetsuit up your hips. Take your time to get it comfortably over your buttocks and into your groin area, ensuring a snug fit without excessive tension.
- Enter the Arms:
- Now that you have the bottom half on slide your left arm in and pull the neoprene up over your wrist. This demonstrates the importance of getting one section fully in place before moving to the next.
- Repeat this process for your right arm, carefully feeding it through the sleeve and pulling the neoprene up past your wrist.
- Tip: Be mindful of long fingernails or sharp jewelry, as they can easily damage the delicate neoprene.
- Shoulders and Torso:
- With your arms partially in, work the wetsuit up over your shoulders. This can be the trickiest part. For a chest-zip wetsuit, you'll need to pull the neck opening over one shoulder, then the other, easing the entire top half into place.
- Adjust the wetsuit so it sits correctly on your torso, ensuring there's no excess material gathered around your armpits or lower back.
- Closing the Wetsuit:
- For Chest-Zip Wetsuits: Once the wetsuit is fully on and adjusted, pull the chest flap over and secure the zip. There's often a small toggle or clip that helps secure the zip in place.
- For Back-Zip Wetsuits: Reach for the zipper cord (often a long leash) and pull the zip all the way up. Secure any Velcro or snap closures at the back of the neck.
Practical Insights for Easier Donning
| Tip Category | Practical Advice |
|---|---|
| Lubrication | A plastic bag over your foot/hand can help them slide through the narrow openings more easily. |
| Patience | Don't rush. Forcing the suit can lead to tears. Work the material up slowly, inch by inch. |
| Body Position | Sitting down can help when getting the legs in. Standing up straight makes pulling it over the hips and torso easier. |
| Avoiding Damage | Use the pads of your fingers, not your nails, to pull the wetsuit material. |
| Pre-wetting | Some find it easier to put on a wetsuit when it's slightly damp, but this isn't always practical for winter suits. |
Following these steps and tips will help ensure your winter wetsuit goes on smoothly, allowing you to stay warm and comfortable during your aquatic activities.
