Do wetsuits stretch?

Wetsuits are worn in all conditions for different water sports and
activities. They

insulate the body against cold temperatures, improve buoyancy and protect against abrasions and UV rays.

How a wetsuit should fit

The material used to construct a wetsuit must stretch for comfort and
movement. While it should feel like a second skin,

a wetsuit should never restrict movement or breathing.

Whenever a wetsuit is put on or taken off, the material will stretch a
little, particularly around the shoulders and legs. Pull with care to avoid
overstretching or tearing.

How wetsuits accommodate and protect the wearer

Your . The better the fit, the more responsive
it will be to your body, and the better it will insulate.

.
The water is contained by tight cuffs, filling the space between the
neoprene and your skin. It is then warmed by body heat to create a barrier
against external cold.

Should the wetsuit fit poorly, water that should be trapped will leak out
(flush) through the suit, negating any insulation. A close fit holds the
insulating layer in place. In order to fit closely, the material must be
able to stretch.

Elasticity of wetsuit materials

Neoprene is a type of synthetic rubber. It contains air pockets within the
material which improve buoyancy and insulation.

The amount by which a wetsuit will stretch depends on the type of neoprene
and mix of materials. However, all neoprene has some level of flexibility.

Thicker wetsuits tend to provide more insulation. However, they are also
more restrictive as the bulky material stretches less.

Different types of neoprene can be used to meet different needs. Super stretch neoprene is designed for flexibility, reinforced neoprene for durability, and smooth skin or nylon lining mixes for better insulation.

How wetsuit fit affects the amount a wetsuit will stretch

If a wetsuit is too small, the fabric’s elasticity will be maxed out when
adapting to your body, making it less flexible. If it’s too big, the
material will not contort as much as you may want it to. Trying to fix a
poor fit by stretching your wetsuit will reduce its effectiveness and
possibly cause damage.

To break in a wetsuit, wear it while performing pre-activity stretches,
either when wet or dry. You can stay warm and mobile during pre-session prep with a Packable Changing Robe that’s easy to carry and quick to throw on. This will gently stretch the neoprene and move the
wetsuit into place on your body.

Fit and stretch preference will vary by wearer, and may depend on what the
wetsuit is being worn for. Open water swimming requires more flexibility
than deep sea diving. However, the latter will likely require

a thicker wetsuit for extra warmth.

Wetsuits stretch more when wet

Because water loosens neoprene, wetsuits stretch more once wet. The first
time you wear a wetsuit, or wear it again once fully dried, it will have
less give until moistened again.

Soaking in warm water can loosen the fabric, but this can also reduce
overall elasticity over the long term.

Storing your wetsuit to prevent unwanted stretching

If a wetsuit is not stored properly or rinsed after use it may become less
elastic over time, as the material and seams may become compromised.

Correct wetsuit care
will help protect against damage from saltwater, mould, and bacteria,
prolonging its useful life.

Finding a comfortable wetsuit

Wetsuits from Two Bare Feet are designed with comfort and functionality as
a priority. Our range covers a broad variety of uses, from

thick winter wetsuits
through to

summer shorty wetsuits
that offer more flexibility and less insulation.

For additional insulation and protection, we also provide

a selection of wetsuit accessories, including thermal rash vests, gloves, and hoods

– and recommend layering up with one of our insulated jackets for women for warmth before and after your session.