Wetsuit Care
Related Links: Wetsuit
Repair, Wetsuit
Repair Materials
Wetsuits are one of the most vital components used in
windsurfing, and should be cared for accordingly. Wetsuits are made
of neoprene and held together by stitches and a special contact
cement. If cared for properly, they should last a long time.
Tips to increase suit longevity:
1. Rinse your suit after each use. If you were very warm during your
last session this is especially important because your sweat will
cause bad odors that are difficult to remove.
2. Store your suit dry. Suits stored in a wet ball will quickly
begin to smell. Do not leave suit drying in direct sunlight, the UV
rays will dry out the neoprene shortening the life of the suit.
3. Keep your suit as straight as possible when not in use. Stuffing
it into a bag will cause creases that will become tears later on as
the neoprene “dries” out.
4. Don’t hang suit on clothes hanger (hook through neck) for long
periods. Neoprene will stretch over time, and the neck will get
bigger if you hang it traditionally. It is OK to fold it in half
over the horizontal part of the hanger. Also, do not hang your suit
by the zipper cord unless the zipper is all the way up and the neck
velcro is closed, otherwise your zipper will tear out of thesuit at
the base.
5. Be careful when putting your wetsuit on and taking it off. The
newer neoprenes are very stretchy and soft, but are more easily torn
than those of the past. Fingernails, jewelry and poor technique can
tear even new suits.
6. Maintain your suits. Rinse them as often as you can with fresh
water, and wash them with wetsuit soap once a year or so, and store
them properly and they will last years.
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