Wetsuit Care Guide: 5 Rules to Protect Your Wettie
The Stuff Your Neoprene Wishes You Would Stop Doing
Find it ironic that the very things Mamala designs wetsuits for, like sun filled surf sessions, mother ocean’s saltwater, and women surfers, can be what wetsuits hate most? Sorry to say, ladies, but some of your bad habits are at the top of the list! 😉
Sun Habits
Sun-soaked surf sessions are the best, and minimal damage to your wetsuit will occur while you are in the water. But after you get out? Drying your wetsuit in the sun is a huge no. Your wetsuit loves the shade when drying. I know the shade is not quite as fast-drying as the sun, but patience is key. With Mamala’s Yamamoto #40 neoprene and premium quick-dry fleece, you will easily make your second session of the day. Promise.
Saltwater Habits
Waves were pumping and your surf session got you running late? Saltwater is your suit’s arch-nemesis. To defeat it, maybe catch one less wave and give yourself a couple of minutes to rinse your suit inside and out with cold water. Easy peasy.
Heat Habits
Wetties prefer chill vibes to heat waves. Hot cars, heaters, dryers, and irons are not their thing. Store your suit at a temperature that you would find comfortable for yourself.
Hanging Habits
Where does your wettie like to hang? Not on your car’s mirror, crammed into a surf bag, or on a metal hanger. Hanging it inside out by the waist, or over a wetsuit-specific hanger that you would trust with your favorite cashmere sweater, is ideal.
What Wettie Nightmares Are Made Of
We are not asking you to ditch your leash, but your suit would be stoked to stay away from your leash’s velcro. A sure way to ding the stretchy fabric of your suit is to pair it up with velcro. Sharp objects should keep a healthy distance from your suit as well.
To Sum It Up:
Rinse Immediately: After use, rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with fresh, cold water. This removes salt, sand, and debris that damage the material over time.
Hang to Drip Dry: Hang your wetsuit inside out by the waist or shoulders on a thick, wetsuit-specific hanger. Place it in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight, as UV rays cause neoprene to deteriorate.
Store Properly: Once dry, store your wetsuit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Avoid Sharp Edges & Velcro: Keep your suit completely away from velcro and rough surfaces to prevent tearing the fabric.
FYI: Giving your wettie a "spa day" every couple of weeks with a specialized wetsuit shampoo and a long soak will do wonders for the smell and buttery feel of your suit. This guarantees cozy and delightfully scented surf sessions.
Follow these steps for happy wetties and happy surfers! You will prolong your suit’s lifespan and ensure optimal performance for all your water adventures.