So you’re a beginner surfer, and you just bought your first wetsuit. Congratulations! You’re well on your way to catching waves in no time. But before you make it out into the water, there’s one important question that needs to be answered: what do you wear under a wetsuit? It may seem like an odd question at first, but trust us—it’s a crucial one. Read on for all the answers!

What Not to Wear Under Your Wetsuit

The most important thing to know about wearing clothes underneath your wetsuit is what not to wear. The fabric of a wetsuit is designed to trap a thin layer of water next to your skin, which helps keep you warm in cooler waters. If you wear cotton or any other fabric that absorbs water, it will completely defeat this purpose and leave you feeling cold and uncomfortable while surfing. You should also avoid wearing anything too bulky or loose-fitting as it can cause chafing or create drag in the water.

What To Wear Under Your Wetsuit

Now that you know what not to wear under your wetsuit, let’s talk about what you should wear under your wetsuit. The best option is to wear a swimsuit made from synthetic material such as spandex or polyester. This type of fabric won’t absorb any water and will help keep you comfortable while providing an extra layer of protection against the elements. Some surfers prefer adding a rash guard if they plan on spending extended periods of time in the water; rash guards are lightweight and provide UPF protection from the sun's UV rays. Lastly, if it's wintertime then we recommend adding an extra layer of thermal protection such as neoprene leggings or tops for additional warmth when the temperature drops.


By now, we hope that we've answered your questions about what do you wear under a wetsuit! Remember, always avoid anything made with cotton or any fabric that absorbs water as it will defeat the purpose of why wetsuits are designed with neoprene fabric in the first place - trapping a thin layer of water next to your skin for insulation purposes! Instead opt for something lightweight and made from synthetic materials such as spandex/polyester blends and add an extra layer of thermal protection if necessary during colder months!

Happy surfing!