Some Tips On Buying a Cheap Wetsuit
Posted on Apr 27, 2009 under Scuba Diving | No CommentWetsuits from different manufacturers will have different features for improved performance and as selling points. Many innovations advertised are just gimmicks but many are very useful. To help you when you purchase your wetsuit we’ve put together some information on the most useful features.
Neoprene
This is a rubber foam material that is lined for stretch and warmth with a jersey fabric. Stretch is important for fit and comfort but the stretchier the fabric the less durability it has. In some areas, the knees for instance, durability is more important than flexibility so a stronger, more durable fabric is used.
seam Construction
For a good fit wetsuits are made with a number of panels. More panels are used to give better fit but this also means more seams. This then causes a reduction in the suits flexibility. Seams should not be placed behind the knees or at the neck as this will cause irritation and chafing. Also areas that will reduce the ability to move, such as across the shoulders or under the arms.
Types of Stitching
Flatlocking and blindstitching are both used in wetsuit construction. Most of the more expensive wetsuits use blindstitching. Seams are glued first then stitched with a needle that does not completely pass through the material. As there is no hole all the way through the material the seam does not let in water. As the process is labor intensive it also costs more. The seam produced by flatlocking is flexible and strong but not watertight as the needle makes a hole right through the material. This is not really suitable for winter suits and is usually only seen in summer wetsuits.
Liquid Sealed Seams
A rubber compound can be used to seal the seam and make it watertight. flexibility is important in some areas and, as the rubber compound reduces this it cannot be used in these areas.
Neoprene Coating Types
For wetsuits the neoprene used is of two types WRC (water repellent coating) and Pu printing. A water repellent chemical is used on the top half of WRC wetsuits. Less water is absorbed by the fabric and the wetsuit is therefore lighter and warmer. The material is made more durable and resistant to damage by abrasion using a process called PU printing.
Batwings
These are used in the more expensive wetsuits to make the suit warmer and more comfortable. They are thin strips of neoprene sewn inside the zip to prevent cold water entering.
Ankles, Neck and Wrist Seals
Neck, ankle and wrist seals should prevent water from leaking into the suit. However they should not be so tight that they restrict movement or cause irritation and rubbing. A good fit with soft neoprene and fewer seams are some points to look for.
How Much Will a Wetsuit Cost?
The use of superstretch material and blindstitching enhances performance in the more expensive wetsuits. These features may be useful but you should also be aware that they may lower the strength of the wetsuit and shorten it’s useful life. A balance needs to be struck between a better performing wetsuit and one that is durable and long lasting. It doesn’t make any sense to save money on a wetsuit if it’s not comfortable when you need to wear it for long periods.
