Buying a Wetsuit: Which Wetsuit Thickness Do You Need?

Complete Guide to Every Water Temperature

A good wetsuit makes a huge difference when kitesurfing, wingfoiling, surfing, or paddleboarding. But what wetsuit thickness do you actually need at what temperature? In this guide, we'll explain exactly which wetsuit is suitable for summer, spring, autumn, and winter in the Netherlands.

The right wetsuit thickness ensures you stay comfortable on the water longer, cool down less quickly, and have more energy during your session. Additionally, a quality wetsuit with an ergonomic fit also provides optimal freedom of movement and impact resistance.

How Does Wetsuit Thickness Work?

Wetsuit thickness is indicated in millimeters, for example, 3/2mm, 4/3mm, or 5/4mm.

• The first number indicates the thickness around your torso
• The second number indicates the thickness at your arms and legs

A thicker wetsuit retains more warmth thanks to extra insulation and durable neoprene panels, while a thinner wetsuit offers more flexibility and comfort.

Which Wetsuit for Which Temperature?

24°C and warmer → Lycra or Shorty

On really warm summer days, a lycra or a thin 2mm shorty wetsuit is often sufficient.

• Perfect for warm summer days
• Lots of freedom of movement
• Protection against sun and chafing

20°C to 24°C → 3/2mm Wetsuit

A 3/2mm wetsuit is ideal for warm spring and summer days in the Netherlands. This is one of the most popular thicknesses for kitesurfers and surfers during the summer.

• Lots of flexibility
• Comfortable during warm sessions
• Perfect for June, July, and August

15°C to 20°C → 4/3mm Wetsuit

A 4/3mm wetsuit is perfect for spring and autumn. This type of wetsuit offers a good balance between warmth and flexibility.

• Suitable for Dutch spring and autumn
• Warm enough for longer sessions
• Still plenty of freedom of movement

Many kitesurfers use a 4/3mm wetsuit as an all-round wetsuit for most of the year due to its high-quality insulation and comfortable fit.

8°C to 15°C → 5/4mm Wetsuit

A 5/4mm wetsuit is the standard for colder conditions in the Netherlands. Especially in early spring and late autumn, this is often the best choice.

• Plenty of warmth thanks to thick neoprene panels
• Ideal for cold wind and low water temperatures
• Often combined with an integrated hood

For kitesurfing in the Netherlands, a 5/4mm wetsuit is often essential outside the summer months and provides durable protection against cold and impact.

Below 8°C → 6/5mm Wetsuit

For real winter sessions, many riders opt for a 6/5mm wetsuit. These wetsuits are designed for maximum warmth during extremely cold days.

• Suitable for winter kitesurfing
• Extra thick neoprene panels for optimal insulation
• Often includes a hood

Always combine a winter wetsuit with good neoprene boots, gloves, and possibly a hood to minimize heat loss.

Don't Forget Your Accessories

In colder temperatures, accessories are at least as important as your wetsuit itself. They increase comfort and protection against impact and cold.

Neoprene Boots

• 3mm for mild conditions
• 5mm for winter sessions

Neoprene Gloves

• 2-3mm for autumn
• 5mm for cold winter days

Neoprene Hoods

You lose a lot of heat through your head. A neoprene hood often makes winter sessions much more comfortable and also offers extra protection against cold and wind.

Which Wetsuit Thickness for Kitesurfing in the Netherlands?

For Dutch conditions, most kitesurfers use:

• Summer: 3/2mm wetsuit
• Spring & Autumn: 4/3mm wetsuit
• Winter: 5/4mm or 6/5mm wetsuit

Because the water temperature in the Netherlands remains relatively low, many riders even in summer still regularly sail with a full suit for optimal warmth and comfort.

What's More Important: Thickness or Fit?

The fit of a wetsuit is at least as important as its thickness. A poorly fitting wetsuit lets water in and quickly loses warmth.

A good wetsuit:

• Fits snugly without pinching thanks to ergonomic and adjustable construction
• Lets in little water
• Provides sufficient freedom of movement for athletes seeking comfort
• Ensures good thermal insulation

The right wetsuit thickness depends on the water temperature, outside temperature, wind, and your personal preference.

As a general guideline, you can assume:

• 3/2mm: summer
• 4/3mm: spring and autumn
• 5/4mm: cold days
• 6/5mm: winter

Unsure which wetsuit best suits you? Visit Shaka in Scheveningen for personal advice and to try on different wetsuits from top brands such as Mystic, Rip Curl, ION, and Prolimit. This way, you are guaranteed to find a durable and comfortable wetsuit that meets your watersports needs.