Buying Guide

WETSUIT BUYING GUIDE

Find the perfect wetsuit for your water sport and conditions

CHOOSING THE RIGHT THICKNESS

Wetsuit thickness is measured in millimetres. The first number refers to the torso thickness, the second to the limbs. A 5/4mm wetsuit gives 5mm in the body and 4mm in the arms and legs — ideal for cold water (8–14°C). For tropical conditions (22°C+) a 1.5mm shortie will suffice.

UNDERSTANDING THE TIERS

ION wetsuits come in five performance tiers: Select (premium natural rubber, warmest), Amp (perfect balance of flex and warmth), Core (versatile all-rounder), Element (comfort and protection), and Static (entry-level). Higher tiers use better neoprene and construction methods.

FIT & SIZING

A wetsuit should fit like a second skin — no gaps at the neck or wrists, no excess fabric pooling at the knees. Use our size chart and measure chest, waist, hip and height. When between sizes, size down for warmth; size up for flexibility.

ZIPPER STYLES

Back zip: easy entry, most common. Chest zip: better insulation and flexibility, preferred by surfers and kiters. Zipless: maximum flex, slightly trickier to put on.