Rashguard / No Suit
Warm water, sun protection, and rash prevention. Great for summer and travel.
Wetsuit Guide | How to Choose the Right Wetsuit | Parrot Surf & Skate
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Wetsuit Guide
Learn how to choose the right wetsuit: thickness by water temperature, fit, seams, materials, and what works best for East Coast surf (including Charleston, SC). Plus: shop wetsuits from Parrot Surf & Skate.
Quick Answers
What wetsuit thickness do I need?
Match your suit to water temperature, then adjust for wind and personal tolerance. A common East Coast range is 3/2mm for cool water, 4/3mm for cold water, and 5/4mm for winter conditions.
How should a wetsuit fit?
A wetsuit should fit snug everywhere with no major loose areas or water flushing. It should feel tight on dry land but not restrict breathing or shoulder movement.
What’s the difference between 3/2 and 4/3?
The first number is chest/back thickness, the second is arms/legs. A 4/3 is warmer than a 3/2 but can feel slightly stiffer.
Do I need boots, gloves, or a hood?
In colder months, your extremities get cold first. When temps drop, adding boots (and later gloves/hood) can extend sessions more than upgrading thickness alone.
Wetsuit Thickness by Water Temperature
Use this as a practical starting point. Wind, session length, and your personal cold tolerance matter too — if you “run cold,” size up warmth.
Tip
Water temp matters more than air temp. A sunny day can still feel freezing in cold water. When in doubt, choose warmth and you’ll surf longer.
| Water Temp | Recommended Suit | Optional Add-ons |
|---|---|---|
| 75°F+ (24°C+) | Rashguard / boardshorts or 1mm–2mm top | Reef booties (spots dependent) |
| 68–74°F (20–23°C) | Springsuit or 2mm shorty | 1mm top for wind |
| 60–67°F (16–19°C) | 3/2mm full suit | Boots if windy / long sessions |
| 52–59°F (11–15°C) | 4/3mm full suit | Boots; gloves/hood if you run cold |
| 45–51°F (7–10°C) | 5/4mm or 5/4/3mm | Boots + gloves + hood (or hooded suit) |
| Below 45°F (Below 7°C) | Winter suit (5/4+), hooded | Boots + gloves always |
Not sure what water temps are doing right now? Check our Surf Report (conditions + notes).
How a Wetsuit Should Fit
Fit is the #1 factor for warmth. A thicker suit that flushes water can feel colder than a thinner suit that fits correctly.
Good Fit Looks Like
- Snug at neck, wrists, and ankles
- No big loose pockets behind knees or lower back
- Minimal water movement inside the suit
- Full range of motion without shoulder pain
Red Flags
- Baggy arms/legs that “balloon” with water
- Neck gap (cold water rush)
- Excessive pulling on shoulders or crotch
- Numb hands fast (often from flushing)
Pro tip
If you’re between sizes, the “right” choice depends on your body shape and flexibility. If you want, message the shop with your height/weight and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Wetsuit Styles (What to Choose)
Springsuit / Shorty
Shoulder-season comfort. Keeps your core warm while staying flexible.
Full Suit
The everyday workhorse for the East Coast. Choose thickness based on water temp.
Hooded Suit
Cold water sessions. A built-in hood seals warmth and reduces flushing.
Boots
Your feet get cold first. Boots extend sessions and protect from rocks/shells.
Gloves
For winter. Helps with dexterity and keeps hands from going numb mid-session.
Seams, Zippers & Warmth (What Actually Matters)
Chest Zip vs Back Zip
Chest zip is typically warmer and has less flushing. Back zip is easier to get on/off. Both can be great — prioritize fit.
Seam Types
Glued & blindstitched seams are warmer than flatlock. Taped seams add warmth and durability (especially in colder suits).
Entry Convenience
If you surf often, easier entry matters. If you surf cold water, warmth matters more. Choose what you’ll actually wear consistently.
Durability
Good knee pads, quality stitching, and proper care add seasons to your suit. (See: Gear Care.)
Neoprene, Stretch & Comfort
Suits vary by warmth, stretch, and durability. Softer, stretchier neoprene feels amazing — but can wear faster. Stiffer neoprene can last longer but may feel less flexible. The best suit is the one you’ll wear often.
More Stretch
- Easier paddling
- More comfort
- May trade off durability
More Durability
- Better long-term wear
- Great for frequent surfers
- Can feel slightly stiffer
Charleston & South Carolina Notes
In the Lowcountry, conditions swing a lot through the year. Many surfers keep a simple rotation: 3/2mm for cool months, 4/3mm for cold snaps, plus boots for winter sessions. If you’re building a “one suit quiver,” a well-fitting 3/2mm is often the most versatile.
Want a quick recommendation based on this week’s temps? Contact the shop.
Videos
Swap these placeholders with your Parrot videos once they’re live.
Wetsuit thickness explained (what you actually need)
How a wetsuit should fit (avoid flushing)
More on YouTube: Parrot Surf & Skate
Shop Wetsuits
Ready to gear up? Browse our wetsuit collection, or contact the shop for sizing help.
Wetsuit FAQ
How tight should a wetsuit be?
Snug. It should feel tight on land with no big loose areas, but you should still be able to breathe and paddle comfortably. Loose areas cause flushing and make you colder.
Should I get a 3/2 or 4/3?
Choose based on water temperature and tolerance. A 3/2 is more flexible; a 4/3 is warmer. If you’re often cold, or surf longer sessions, 4/3 may be worth it.
Do I need boots?
When water temps drop, boots can be the biggest comfort upgrade. They also protect your feet from rocks, shells, and cold sand.
How do I make my wetsuit last longer?
Rinse with fresh water, dry in the shade, avoid hot car trunks, and store it properly. See Gear Care for a full checklist.
Still unsure? Message the shop and we’ll help you pick the right suit.