Recommend a Wetsuit

Mr.David

Hi,

Just wondering if anyone can recommend a particular wetsuit brand or good place to get a wetsuit.

I'll be using it for kayaking, mainly summer time but hopefully in the winter too.

I know LIDL/ALDI do them from time to time but I've been told they are poor quality and don't have enough flexibility - anyone agree/disagree?

It's my first suit so don't want to spend a fortune but at the same time willing to spend a few quid more to get a reasonable one that will last. Was thinking a long john?

NathanKingerlee

I'd suggest a 3mm steamer wetsuit, and get a good semi-dry cag over it, especially for winter paddling. Lidl/Aldi wetsuits are pretty decent in my experience, but in terms of fit/less zips/less bulk go for an outdoor shop wetsuit.

MadYaker

I would recommend a dry cag rather than a wetsuit with a semi dry cag over it. The cheapest decent wetsuit you'll get will cost you about €180 and for a little bit more you could get a dry cag like the Kokatat Helix and a pair of neoprene pants for your legs. A few pennies fleeces under the cag and you'll be grand.

I find paddling in wetsuits to be horribly uncomfortable and if you get more into kayaking you will soon want to ditch the wetsuit in favour of a dry cag.

But if you're set on getting one I have the O'Neill Epic 5/3 mm wetsuit, id recommend it, I have used it in the sea in winter and summer and it kept me nice and warm, they can usually be bought for €200 or less.

wet-paint

If you're worried about flexibility, stay away from steamers and go for a Long John. No arm, and the shoulders are unimpeded.
Apparently this crowd is Irish: http://marasurf.com

true

MadYaker wrote: »

But if you're set on getting one I have the O'Neill Epic 5/3 mm wetsuit, id recommend it, I have used it in the sea in winter and summer and it kept me nice and warm, they can usually be bought for €200 or less.

yeah the epic 5/3 is a good suit, They can be got for less than €200 though. For example Sunset in Sligo does them for €140 inc free delivery
http://www.sunset.ie/p/oneill_epic_ii_53_ct_wetsuit

I think a 5/3 can too warm for kayaking in the summer though. Was out on a sit on top at the weekend wearing just a shorty and it was more than warm enough....even jumped in a few times to cool off! I suppose the weather is not always as good as last week though.

MadYaker

I only use it for surfing but it keeps warm in the winter and summer. Id say it could a bit warm for kayaking in the summer alright. That sleeveless wetsuit recommended above looks pretty good. I didn't know such a thing existed!