If you’re taking part in winter wind-powered watersports such as dinghy sailing, wind surfing, and kite surfing, getting the best winter wetsuit is vital as it is inevitable you will get wet writes Sue PellingRS AeroFor watersports activities, the correct heat retaining, technical clothing is imperative, particularly in the winter when the water temperature can drop to as low as 7\u00b0C. If you want to stay out on the water through the colder months then you will need to buy a winter specific winter wetsuit.
\nBeing exposed to cold and wet without the correct clothing is not only extremely uncomfortable, but could also lead to serious health issues such as hypothermia.
\nTypes of winter wetsuit
\nNeoprene wetsuits (longjohns) or steamers (generally full length with long sleeves and high fitting collar) that fit like a second skin are among the most popular options not least because of their heat retaining properties.
\nThe soft, rubberised technical fabric, designed to retain body heat by trapping a thin layer of water between your skin and the fabric, also provides a bit of \u2018armoured\u2019 protection to help guard against bumps and bruises.
\nNot only is important to choose the correct neoprene thickness, depending on the water temperature, it is also important to choose a wetsuit that\u2019s fit for purpose.
\nGenerally speaking for a winter wetsuit you need between 3.2\u20135.3mm neoprene thickness and, although most wetsuits\/steamers are fairly versatile, it is wise to choose one designed specifically for the sport intended.
\nFor dinghy sailing, choose one that has reinforcements in the seat and knees, the areas that are exposed to friction. Also you\u2019ll find dinghy sailing wetsuits are generally constructed using slightly thinner neoprene under the arms and high stress areas to aid flexibility and to help avoid pinching.
\nFinally if you are likely to be taking part in a particularly active sport where spending long periods of time submerged is unlikely (dinghy, windsurfing and kite racing would all fall broadly into this category) you\u2019ll probably want a winter longjohn wetsuit which will keep your arms free for movement.
\nHowever, if you are a beginner and are likely to spend more time in the water or you also participate in a sport like surfing or cold water swimming, you\u2019ll be better served by a steamer of other full wetsuit option that provides full body coverage at the expense of some upper body movement.
\nBest winter wetsuits<\/p>\n
Decathlon Dinghy 500 Women\u2019s Sailing GBS 3\/2 mm Neoprene Wetsuit
\nThe Tribord DG500 neoprene steamer-style wetsuit, designed specifically for women, is made of 3mm neoprene, which Decathlon say is \u2018an ideal option for winter racing\u2019. Like all Tribord products, the DG500 offers good value, and has been developed and tested by the company\u2019s design teams at 47\u00b0Nautik sailing school, France.
\nFor ease of access, there is a zip down the back of the suit, with a flap of neoprene underneath to help reduce the shock effects of water ingress. All seams are constructed using the blind stitch and glue method. And to improve flexibility, the suit has been cut using lighter fabric in the arms and chest area, a feature that is particularly important for when sailing high-performance race boats.
\nReinforcement below the knees, seat and thighs not only helps with wear and tear in friction-prone areas, but also aids comfort.
\nRRP: \u00a399.99
\nBuy it now from Decathlon
\nNote: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site, at no extra cost to you. This doesn\u2019t affect our editorial independence.<\/p>\n
Gul Mens Code Zero 4\/3mm Chest Zip Dinghy Wetsuit
\nGul is one of the first companies to come to mind when choosing a wetsuit, so it\u2019s not surprising there is a good option for the dinghy sailor. The Code Zero wetsuit is designed and developed using Revo Fit 3D pattern technology. Manufactured using a combination of Fx:Lite Thermal and Fx:Lite neoprene, Gul says it has produced one of its most durable and warmest suits ever.
\nAs well as the usual glued and blind stitched seams it has the addition of a high stretch G-Tape neoprene tape for improved durability and waterproofness. Specifically for the dinghy sailor, Gul uses Flextex \u2013 an abrasion resistant fibre fabric \u2013 on the seat, as well as Powertex S-Shield on the knees and shin area to offer increased protection and flexibility. Other features include a chest zip for easy entry, and a discreet P-Eazy fly relief system for convenience during a long day on the racecourse.
\nRRP: \u00a3221.93
\nBuy it now from Amazon<\/p>\n
Osprey Men\u2019s Zero Wetsuit
\nThe Osprey men\u2019s Zero Wetsuit is a great option as an entry level winter wetsuit for those who are just starting out on their winter watersports journey.
\nThe Zero range has been specifically created with beginner and intermediate surfers in mind, but it will do the job whatever watersport you are taking up \u2013 or will be good for the budget conscious sailor, windsurfer, kitesurfer or paddleboarder who is not looking to be too active.
\nThe Osprey Zero features 5mm thick neoprene insulation across the chest, 4mm super stretch zones surrounding the sleeves, and shoulders and lower legs providing plenty of thermal insulation and flexibility that make it ideal for the colder months of the year.
\nThe 4mm Supratex knee pads offer further protection and improve comfort during long sessions in the water. It\u2019s packed with many of the features you would expect for a more expensive suit, such as: super stretch collar; anti-rub openings and durable zip closure for improved convenience and comfort.
\nIt may not have all the bells and whistles of some of the highest end suits and it may not be quite as flexible, but if you\u2019re looking for a wetsuit that will keep you warm in winter without breaking the bank this would be a good option.
\nRRP: \u00a399.95
\nBuy it now from Amazon
\nBest sailing, paddleboarding and windsurfing winter wetsuits<\/p>\n
Gill Men\u2019s ZenTherm Skiff Suit
\nGill has always been ahead of the game when it comes to designing specialised dinghy sailing technical clothing and the Men\u2019s ZenTherm Skiff Suit is a prime example.
\nIn its manufacturing process Gill uses 3mm Ecoflex limestone neoprene. The calcium carbonate from the limestone used to make limestone neoprene is apparently less harmful to the environment than its petroleum counterpart and has improved heat retaining qualities, which makes it is ideal for colder temperatures.
\nGill has designed ZenTherm Skiff Suit to offer a good balance between performance and comfort. The skin-tight fit is made possible thanks to its zip-free design and extremely flexible 4-way stretch fabric that also allows for a full range of movement when racing.
\nIf you are looking for a multi-purpose suit for other watersports such as stand up paddleboarding, kayaking or windsurfing, this is also good option.
\nRRP: \u00a3173.80
\nBuy it now from Amazon<\/p>\n
Musto Flexlite Alumin longjohn
\nThe Flexlite Alumin longjohn 2.5MM from Musto may sound a bit too thin for winter sailing but Musto tell us it uses its unique Flexlite Alumin technology that not only makes the warmth benefit the equivalent of wearing a 4mm to 4.5mm standard wetsuit, but it is also incredibly light and flexible for high-octane racing.
\nSo what is Flexlite Alumin technology? And how does this compare to standard three-layer neoprene where a sheet of neoprene is bonded between two fabrics \u2013 the durable outer fabric and insulating inner fabric? According to Musto, Alumin is the fourth layer, which sits between the neoprene and the inner fabric. The idea is that it regulates body temperature, keeping you warmer for a lot longer.
\nOther features include durable anti-abrasion nylon-faced neoprene on the seat, back of the thighs and knees, plus quick drying plush backer in the chest and back area.
\nIn her summing up of the Flexlite Alumin suit she wears, double Olympic Gold medallist Hannah Mills MBE says, \u201cit\u2019s an amazing product\u2026 Although more expensive than some others in the Musto selection, it provides a super high-quality neoprene which would last for years.\u201d
\nRRP: \u00a3240
\nBuy it now from Musto<\/p>\n
Zhik Mens Superwarm V Skiff Suit
\nZhik, known for its expertise in the design and manufacture of dinghy specific technical wear, is a good company to consider when choosing a winter wetsuit. The men\u2019s version of the Superwarm V Skiff Suit longjohn is designed with the active sailor in mind. It features a 3D body-mapped and ergonomic fit, and Zhik say 3-2mm neoprene construction offers \u2018great warmth in the coldest conditions\u2019.
\nThe targeted super-stretch panelling in the upper body allows for ultimate comfort and flexibility and, the Zhiktex II\u2019s specially designed panels on the knees and seat area provides superior abrasion resistance for comfort and increased suit longevity.
\nLike all well manufactured wetsuits, it has glued and blind stitched seams and the soft, fast-drying fleece on the inside of the neoprene is also a cozy addition.
\nRRP: \u00a3179.95
\nBuy it now from Zhik<\/p>\n
Rooster Supertherm 4mm Longjohn
\nThis Supertherm 4mm Longjohn wetsuit is designed to work in conjunction with the Rooster Supertherm Top as an ideal combination for extreme cold conditions.
\nUsing fabrics that have less environmental impact including limestone based neoprene, recycled Polyester, and water-based glue during construction, Rooster has come up with this new generation wetsuit that is proving extremely popular.
\nIt may not be the cheapest on the market but its well thought out design to achieve not only optimum warmth, but also to include dinghy sailing specific features, makes it a real consideration when looking for a winter wetsuit.
\nAmong some of the suit\u2019s special features are a triple layer construction crotch relief flap, articulated (pre-bent leg shape) for a more streamlined fit, and a quick dry thermal lining throughout. There is also a super wicking heat boost panel on the inside chest, which is designed to work well with the Supertherm Top.
\nMention should also be made that the suit is ProHike Pad compatible, which means it is a particularly good choice for use on hiking dinghies where you need a bit of extra protection.
\nRRP: \u00a3210.00
\nBuy it now from Rooster<\/p>\n
Magic Marine Racing 3mm Blindstitched Winter longjohn Wetsuit
\nAnother good, dinghy sailing option wetsuit is this Magic Marine winter longjohn, which has 4WaySupertex reinforced seat, shinbone and knees. Also, like the Rooster suit, this one is hiking pad compatible, which means there is an option to purchase Magic Marine\u2019s Propads for when you need a bit of relief from sitting out.
\nManufactured using 3mm blind stitched M-Flex neoprene with honeycomb thermal lining, the suit is designed to be ultra flexible. Magic Marine say \u2018the additional warmth provided by the honeycomb lining allows us to use a thinner neoprene but keep the same warmth of a thicker suit\u2019. The idea is a lighter, more flexible suit but just as warm.
\nOther features include the all-important relief zipper, easy entry shoulder straps with hook and loop closure adjustment, and water drainage holes on lower back panel.
\nRRP: \u00a3199.99
\nBuy it now from Coastal Watersports
\nWinter wetsuits for cold water swimming<\/p>\n
O\u2019Neill Epic 4\/3mm Back Zip GBS Wetsuit
\nAs you\u2019d expect from the world\u2019s largest wetsuit manufacturer, O\u2019Neill their wetsuits can be relied upon to deliver quality winter wetsuits.
\nThe Epic range is actually the brand\u2019s entry level category but that doesn\u2019t mean it is without plenty of extras, in fact this Epic 4\/3mm suit has many fof the features you might find on cheaper brand\u2019s mid-level suits.
\nThe wetsuit is made from super stretch, soft neoprene for comfort and warmth and includes a thermal lining for those that feel the cold. Many sellers report that the O\u2019Neill Epic wetsuits are their best selling winter wetsuit due to it\u2019s great price and it can be used for so many water sports.
\nAlthough it is not as thick as some other wetsuits, the lining helps it feel warmer than some of similar thickness and 4-3mm of neoprene should provide a wetsuit that can be easily swum in without restricting movement.
\nOur sister title Practical Boat Owner\u2019s deputy editor, Alison Wood, has been cold water swimming in her O\u2019Neill wetsuit and reports that it is still going strong after 10 years of use.
\nRead Alison\u2019s full guide to cold water swimming equipment here.
\nRRP: \u00a3159.99
\nBuy it now on Amazon<\/p>\n
ORCA Openwater SW
\nOrca are something of a Goldwater swimming specialist when it comes to the wetsuit market.
\nAs a swimming specialist, it\u2019s no surprise that the Orca SW features many ideas that are geared entirely towards cold water swimming.
\nOne high-tech piece of kit included is a built-in chip on to which you can load medical and identity details and also featuring a universal identification system \u2013 something of a \u2018hope to never need it\u2019 safety feature.
\nThe bright orange legs and arms are designed to be high visibility so other water users can see you and you can be easily identified should you end up in trouble.
\nIt features 4mm neoprene throughout which is made from eco-friendly neoprene so as well as keeping you warm, it does have some decent green credentials too.
\nRRP: \u00a3298.95
\nBuy it now from Amazon
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\nDidn\u2019t find what you\u2019re looking for? Head to Amazon\u2019s dedicated sailing page for more marine products.
\nThe post Best winter wetsuit for year-round dinghy sailors and watersports addicts appeared first on Yachting World.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
If you’re taking part in winter wind-powered watersports such as dinghy sailing, wind surfing, and kite surfing, getting the best winter wetsuit is vital as it is inevitable you will get wet writes Sue PellingRS AeroFor watersports activities, the correct … <\/p>\n