Guides
Everything we know about wetsuits, water sports gear, and the unwritten rules of the water — written for people who actually get wet. No fluff, no filler. Just the stuff that helps.
Guides
In-depth references you can trust in the water.
Wetsuit thickness guide
Which thickness for which water temperature — backed by 15 industry sources and 5 peer-reviewed studies. The reference chart our recommendation engine is built on.
Read the guideHow to choose a wetsuit
Water temperature, thickness, zip type, seams, budget — the decision guide in the right order.
Read the guideWetsuit materials explained
Neoprene, limestone, and natural rubber compared. What your suit is made of, how it affects performance, and what it means for the environment.
Read the guideUnderstanding wetsuit construction
Seams, zips, and entry systems explained. Blindstitched vs flatlock, chest zip vs back zip — and what actually matters when you're buying.
Read the guideWetsuit care and repair
How to rinse, dry, store, and patch your suit so it lasts seasons longer. Plus: when it's time to retire one.
Read the guideHow to measure yourself for a wetsuit
Where to measure, what tools to use, and the mistakes that lead to bad fit. Get it right once and every suit fits better.
Read the guideWetsuit sustainability
Natural rubber, recycled carbon black, Fair Trade factories, and greenwashing. An honest look at what's real.
Read the guideWater etiquette
The unwritten rules of the water for surfing, kitesurfing, diving, and 6 other disciplines. Know before you go.
Read the guideHistory of the wetsuit
Hugh Bradner invented it. Bev Morgan, Jack O'Neill, and the Meistrell twins made it commercial. How the wetsuit went from a military experiment to the thing that made cold-water surfing possible.
Read the guideHow wetsuits are made
SHEICO, brand R&D, panel cutting, hand-sewing, and the sales cycle. From raw rubber to the rack.
Read the guideResources
Quick references and browsable data.
Glossary
88 wetsuit and water sports terms explained in plain language. From 4/3mm to Yulex.
Read the guideSpots
400+ surf spots across 30+ countries. Monthly water temperatures, wetsuit recommendations, and packing lists for every spot we track.
Know where you're going?
Pick your spot, pick your dates — we'll tell you exactly what to wear and pack.
Get your recommendationOur guides provide general recommendations based on industry consensus and average conditions. Always check local forecasts and use your own judgment. Sizing recommendations may vary between brands, models, and individual body types. rubber.surf is not liable for any discomfort, equipment decisions, or sizing discrepancies based on these suggestions. Read our full terms.