How To Find The Right Wetsuit
How to Find the Right Women's Wetsuit for Your Body and Surf Spot
Thickness, Fit & Temperature Guide
Buying your first wetsuit can feel overwhelming, especially if you learned to surf somewhere tropical and are now facing colder water at home. Suddenly, a bikini or rash guard isn't going to cut it, and you're left wondering what wetsuit thickness you need, how a wetsuit should fit, and whether all wetsuits are created equal.
The good news? Finding the right wetsuit is easier once you understand a few basics.
This guide will walk you through choosing the right women's wetsuit so you can stay warm, comfortable, and focused on catching waves.
Material and Construction
Most wetsuits are made from neoprene, but not all neoprene performs the same.
Lower-quality neoprene tends to be stiffer, heavier, and less flexible, especially in thicker cold-water suits. A premium wetsuit should keep you warm without making paddling feel like a workout.
At Mamala, we build our wetsuits exclusively with premium Yamamoto #39 and #40 limestone neoprene. Known for its exceptional stretch, warmth, durability, and lightweight feel, Yamamoto rubber allows you to move freely while staying warmer longer.
Every Mamala wetsuit features:
Double blind-stitched seams for strength and flexibility
Fully taped interior seams to reduce water entry
Four-way stretch thermal lining for warmth without sacrificing mobility
Quick-dry thermal fleece so you're ready for your next session sooner
Chest Zip vs. Back Zip Wetsuits
All Mamala wetsuits feature only a chest zip design. Why? It provides better performance in the water.
Chest Zip Advantages
Better seal with less water flushing
Increased flexibility and range of motion
Enhanced warmth
More comfortable while paddling
Back Zip Advantages
Easier to put on and take off
Often less expensive
While a chest zip may feel unfamiliar at first, most surfers quickly find it becomes easier to enter and exit after a few sessions. The improved warmth and flexibility make it well worth the learning curve.
Choosing the Right Wetsuit Thickness
When shopping for a wetsuit, you'll notice numbers like 3/2, 4/3, or 5/4/3.
The first number refers to the thickness of the neoprene in the torso. The second number refers to the thickness in the legs, and when a third number is present, it represents the thickness in the arms.
Wetsuits are designed this way because your core needs the most insulation, while your arms and legs benefit from thinner neoprene for easier paddling and movement.
The right wetsuit thickness depends on water temperature and personal preference. Some surfers naturally run warmer or colder than others.
As a general guideline:
Mamala Wetsuit Temperature Guide
48°–55°F (6°–12°C)
5/4/3mm
55°–60°F (11°–14°C)
4/3mm
5/4/3mm
60°–65°F (14°–18°C)
3/2mm
4/3mm
65°–70°F (17°–20°C)
2/2mm
3/2mm
Remember, these are guidelines. You'll often see surfers wearing different wetsuit thicknesses in the same lineup depending on their cold tolerance and session length.
Finding the Right Fit
Fit is the most important factor in wetsuit performance.
A wetsuit should fit like a second skin. When you first try it on, it should feel snug—firm but comfortable. There should be no loose pockets of material under the arms, around the waist, or through the legs.
A properly fitting wetsuit keeps a thin layer of water next to your skin that your body quickly warms. Extra space allows cold water to circulate, making the wetsuit less effective.
When trying on a wetsuit:
Knee panels should align with your knees
The cuffs should sit at your wrists and ankles
You should be able to breathe comfortably
You should be able to squat, rotate your shoulders, and mimic paddling
If the suit pulls excessively at the shoulders or crotch, it's likely too small. If you notice wrinkles, sagging material, or gaps, it's probably too large.
A Note About Mamala Fit
Mamala wetsuits are designed specifically for women and fit differently than many traditional wetsuits.
When you first put on a Mamala, expect it to feel snug. That's intentional. Our premium Yamamoto neoprene naturally molds to your body after the first few surf sessions, creating a custom fit without losing its shape.
The goal isn't loose. The goal is second skin.