Surfing is an exhilarating sport, but it can also be challenging, especially when you’re trying to stay comfortable in the water. One of the most important aspects of preparing for a surf session is choosing the right gear to wear under your wetsuit. The right base layer can make a huge difference in your overall comfort, warmth, and flexibility while surfing. In this article, we will explore the various options for what to wear under a wetsuit and why they matter.
Why What You Wear Under Your Wetsuit Matters
The wetsuit is designed to keep you warm by trapping a thin layer of water between your skin and the suit. Your body heats this water, creating an insulating layer. However, what you wear under the wetsuit can significantly affect your comfort and performance in the water. Factors such as warmth, flexibility, and protection from chafing can all be influenced by the choice of undergarments.
The Importance of Comfort and Flexibility
When you’re out in the ocean, you need to focus on the waves, not on your gear. Wearing the right underlayer helps prevent discomfort and distractions, such as itching, pinching, or chafing. In addition, the base layer can support better movement, allowing you to move freely in the water. Flexibility is key in surfing, as you need to paddle, pop up, and perform tricks without restriction.
What to Wear Under Your Wetsuit: Top Choices
1. Rash Guard
A rash guard is a popular and practical choice for wearing under a wetsuit. It’s a lightweight, long- or short-sleeved shirt made from spandex or a similar material that provides a comfortable fit. Rash guards are designed to reduce irritation caused by the wetsuit, especially around sensitive areas like the armpits, neck, and chest.
Benefits of a rash guard:
- Prevents chafing: The smooth fabric of the rash guard helps reduce friction between your skin and the wetsuit.
- UV Protection: If you’re surfing in tropical or sunny areas, a rash guard can provide additional UV protection, shielding your skin from harmful sun exposure.
- Breathable: Rash guards are lightweight and breathable, ensuring you don’t overheat in warm water.
Best for: Warm water surfing, protection against sunburns, and preventing wetsuit rash.
2. Compression Shirt or Shorts
Compression shirts or shorts are designed to fit tightly to the body, providing support to muscles and improving blood circulation. They are made from materials like spandex, nylon, and polyester, and can be worn as a base layer under your wetsuit.
Benefits of compression wear:
- Muscle support: The snug fit of compression gear offers extra support to your muscles and joints during intense activities like surfing.
- Wicking moisture: Compression wear helps wick away sweat, keeping you dry and comfortable.
- Improved circulation: The pressure from compression wear can help reduce muscle fatigue and improve circulation, especially during long surf sessions.
Best for: Surfing in cooler conditions or for surfers who need extra muscle support during intense sessions.
3. Thermal Underwear or Base Layers
Thermal base layers are designed to provide extra warmth in colder waters. They are usually made of synthetic fabrics or merino wool, which offer excellent insulation without adding bulk.
Benefits of thermal base layers:
- Insulation: Thermal underwear traps body heat and provides an extra layer of warmth, which is essential for surfing in colder conditions.
- Moisture-wicking: Like compression wear, thermal underwear also wicks away moisture to keep you dry and comfortable.
- Quick-drying: Most thermal base layers are made from materials that dry quickly, preventing you from staying cold after coming out of the water.
Best for: Cold water surfing, especially during winter months.
4. Neoprene Shorts or Tops
Neoprene is the same material used to make wetsuits, but thinner and more flexible. Neoprene shorts or tops are a great option for additional warmth and protection. They are ideal for surfers who feel the need for a little extra insulation around their core or legs.
Benefits of neoprene wear:
- Extra warmth: Neoprene provides additional insulation, making it perfect for surfing in colder waters.
- Flexibility: Neoprene material is stretchy, allowing for freedom of movement while paddling or performing tricks.
- Water-resistant: Neoprene also offers water resistance, keeping you warmer in the water by reducing the amount of water that enters your wetsuit.
Best for: Surfers who need more warmth or those who want to add an extra layer of protection to their core.
5. Board Shorts or Swim Trunks
For surfers who prefer a more minimal layer under their wetsuit, board shorts or swim trunks are a viable option. These lightweight shorts can be worn under a wetsuit to prevent chafing around the waist and thighs. While not as protective as other options, they offer comfort and flexibility.
Benefits of board shorts or swim trunks:
- Comfort: They provide a comfortable fit around the waist and legs, preventing chafing and irritation.
- Breathability: These shorts allow for increased airflow around the body, keeping you cool in warmer water.
- Versatility: Board shorts can be worn alone or under a wetsuit for added comfort.
Best for: Warm water surfing, especially for those who prefer minimal layers under their wetsuit.
6. Women’s Specific Gear
Women have specific needs when it comes to choosing what to wear under a wetsuit. A bikini, one-piece swimsuit, or sports bra and shorts can be worn under a wetsuit to ensure comfort and proper support. Additionally, many brands offer wetsuit-specific undergarments for women.
Benefits of women’s specific gear:
- Support: A well-fitted sports bra or bikini provides proper support while paddling and surfing.
- Comfort: Women’s surf gear is designed with comfort in mind, preventing chafing and allowing for better movement in the water.
- Fit: Women-specific wetsuit undergarments are designed to accommodate the female body, ensuring a snug fit under the wetsuit.
Best for: Female surfers looking for comfort and support in warm or cold waters.
7. Other Considerations for What to Wear Under Your Wetsuit
While the primary concern is comfort and warmth, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind when choosing what to wear under your wetsuit.
Fit: Your undergarments should fit snugly without being too tight. A proper fit ensures that your base layer does not restrict your movement or cause discomfort while you surf.
Thickness: The thickness of your underlayer will depend on the water temperature. For colder waters, opt for thicker layers like thermal underwear or neoprene. For warmer waters, lightweight options like rash guards or board shorts are sufficient.
Durability: Since surfing can be tough on gear, make sure that whatever you choose is durable and able to withstand repeated use in saltwater.
Tips for Choosing the Right Gear for Your Wetsuit
Consider the water temperature: The colder the water, the more insulation you’ll need. In warm water, you can get away with lighter gear, while cold water demands thermal layers.
Prioritize comfort: Whether you’re wearing a rash guard, thermal underwear, or compression gear, make sure it feels comfortable and doesn’t restrict your movement.
Choose moisture-wicking materials: A good base layer will wick away sweat, keeping you dry and comfortable during your surf session.
Look for anti-chafe properties: Make sure your base layer is designed to prevent chafing, especially in areas like the neck, armpits, and waist.
Conclusion
The gear you wear under your wetsuit plays a crucial role in your comfort, flexibility, and overall surfing experience. Whether you choose a rash guard for sun protection, thermal layers for warmth, or a compression shirt for muscle support, selecting the right underlayer can make your surf session more enjoyable and less distracting. Keep in mind the water temperature, your comfort needs, and your activity level when choosing your base layer, and enjoy your time in the water!
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