Putting on a shorty wetsuit effectively ensures comfort, flexibility, and optimal thermal protection for your water activities. The key is a systematic approach to avoid snags and achieve a snug, comfortable fit.
Step-by-Step Guide to Donning Your Shorty Wetsuit
Follow these straightforward steps to put on your shorty wetsuit with ease:
- Prepare the Wetsuit: Begin by folding the top half of your wetsuit's waist down, essentially rolling it inside out until the entry panel and lower body section are easily accessible. This creates a wide opening for your legs.
- Insert Your Legs: Carefully insert one leg into the appropriate opening, then the other. Gently pull the wetsuit up your legs, guiding the material over your calves and thighs until it reaches your waist. Ensure there are no twists or bunched-up fabric around your knees or hips.
- Slide in Your Arms: Once the wetsuit is securely around your waist, slide one arm into its sleeve. Work the material up your arm to your shoulder. Repeat this process for the other arm, ensuring the short sleeves sit comfortably.
- Adjust for Snug Fit: With both arms and legs in, pull the wetsuit fully up over your shoulders and torso. Adjust the material around your shoulders, back, and chest to ensure a snug fit. There should be no significant gaps or excessive bunching. Finally, zip up the wetsuit, typically from the bottom to the top (or top to bottom, depending on the zipper type), ensuring the closure is secure.
Essential Tips for a Smooth Experience
Donning a wetsuit, especially for the first time, can sometimes feel like a challenge. These tips will make the process much smoother:
- Stay Dry (or Pre-wet): It's generally easier to put on a wetsuit when both you and the suit are dry. However, some find that lightly dampening their skin or the inside of the wetsuit with water (or even a specialized wetsuit lubricant) can help it slide on more easily.
- Protect Your Fingernails: Wetsuits are made of neoprene, which can be delicate. Avoid using your fingernails to pull or tug at the material, as this can cause tears. Use the flats of your fingers or palms to work the suit up your body.
- Check the Fit: A properly fitting shorty wetsuit should feel like a second skin – snug but not restrictive. There shouldn't be large air pockets, especially around the small of your back or chest, which could trap water and reduce thermal efficiency.
- Zipper Management: Most shorty wetsuits feature a back zipper. If you have a zipper pull cord, ensure it's accessible for an easy close and open. Practice zipping and unzipping to get comfortable.
- No Creases: Once on, smooth out any significant creases or wrinkles, particularly in high-movement areas like armpits or the crotch. This prevents chafing and improves the suit's performance.
Common Wetsuit Donning Challenges & Solutions
| Challenge | Description | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty Sliding On | The neoprene material feels "sticky" against the skin. | Dampen your skin or the inside of the wetsuit. Consider using a wetsuit-specific lubricant like Body Glide. |
| Fingernail Tears | Accidental punctures or rips from pulling too hard with sharp nails. | Use the flats of your fingers or palms. Consider wearing thin gloves. |
| Bunching/Twisting | Wetsuit material gets twisted or gathered in uncomfortable spots. | Take your time when pulling it up. Start with the legs and systematically work your way up, smoothing as you go. |
| Zipper Stuck | The zipper snags on fabric or is difficult to pull. | Ensure no fabric is caught in the zipper teeth. Apply a small amount of zipper wax if it's consistently sticky. |
Why Proper Donning Matters for Your Shorty Wetsuit
Properly putting on your shorty wetsuit isn't just about getting it on; it significantly impacts its performance and your comfort. A well-donned wetsuit:
- Maximizes Thermal Protection: A snug fit minimizes water circulation, ensuring the thin layer of water trapped between your body and the suit warms up and insulates you effectively.
- Enhances Flexibility and Mobility: When the suit is on correctly, it moves with your body, allowing for full range of motion during swimming, surfing, or paddling.
- Prevents Chafing: Properly positioned seams and smooth material reduce friction against your skin, preventing uncomfortable rashes and irritation.
- Extends Wetsuit Lifespan: Gentle and correct donning reduces stress on seams and material, helping your wetsuit last longer.
By following these guidelines, you'll be able to put on your shorty wetsuit quickly and efficiently, ready to enjoy your time in the water. For more information on wetsuit care and selection, you can explore resources like Wetsuit Wearhouse or SurferToday's Wetsuit Guide. (Note: These are example links to illustrate SEO functionality; actual URLs should be verified for current relevance and credibility.)
