Wetsuit Accessories Buying Guide: Boots, Hoods, and Gloves
When it comes to staying warm, comfortable, and protected in the water, wetsuit accessories like boots, hoods, and gloves are crucial additions. Whether you're surfing in cold weather, diving, or enjoying other water sports, these accessories ensure you stay in the water longer without compromising your performance or safety. Here's a buying guide to help you choose the right wetsuit accessories:
1. Wetsuit Boots
Boots are designed to protect your feet from cold water, sharp objects, and the elements. They come in different designs based on the level of warmth and flexibility needed.
Types of Wetsuit Boots
- Full Boots: Cover the entire foot and often extend above the ankle. Ideal for cold water conditions.
- Ankle Boots: Cover the foot up to the ankle. Perfect for warmer water or when flexibility is more important.
- Split-Toe Boots: These have a separated big toe to enhance board feel, offering better control for surfers and kiteboarders.
- Round-Toe Boots: Provide a more traditional, fully enclosed toe for warmth and protection.
Boot Thickness
- 2mm–3mm: Best for warmer waters (65°F/18°C+). They provide protection without too much insulation.
- 4mm–5mm: Designed for cooler waters (50°F/10°C+). They provide more insulation and are often paired with thicker wetsuits for longer sessions.
- 6mm+: Ideal for very cold waters (50°F/10°C and below), providing maximum warmth for extreme conditions.
Key Features to Look For
- Seam Construction: Look for glued and blind-stitched seams (GBS) or fully sealed seams to prevent water entry.
- Sole Material: A soft rubber sole provides flexibility, while thicker soles offer more protection from rocks or sharp objects.
- Neoprene: Choose boots made with high-quality neoprene (superstretch or smoothskin) for flexibility, warmth, and comfort.
- Drainage Holes: Drainage holes in the sole can prevent water from accumulating inside the boots, keeping them lighter and more comfortable.
2. Wetsuit Hoods
Hoods are essential for keeping your head warm in cold water, especially during winter surfing, diving, and other water sports. They help maintain body temperature and reduce the risk of hypothermia.
Types of Wetsuit Hoods
- Full Hoods: Cover the entire head, neck, and sometimes part of the shoulders. They are designed to keep you warm in colder conditions.
- Neck Hoods: These hoods cover only the neck and head but leave the face exposed. Great for moderate temperatures or when facial exposure isn't needed.
- Face Shields: Some hoods feature a face shield for additional protection from the wind and cold, especially in extreme conditions.
Hood Thickness
- 3mm–5mm: Suitable for moderate to cool conditions (55°F–65°F / 13°C–18°C). Offers decent warmth while maintaining flexibility.
- 5mm–7mm: Designed for colder waters (50°F/10°C and below). These thicker hoods provide maximum insulation for long sessions in freezing conditions.
Key Features to Look For
- Neck Seal: Look for a good neck seal that prevents water from flushing into the hood. This ensures that your body heat stays trapped.
- Flatlock or GBS Seams: Choose hoods with glued and blind-stitched seams for better waterproofing.
- Chin Strap or Velcro Closure: A chin strap helps secure the hood in place, preventing it from slipping off during intense activity.
- Elastic Fit: A snug, yet comfortable fit is essential for preventing water entry while still allowing movement.
3. Wetsuit Gloves
Gloves are critical for maintaining dexterity and warmth in cold water, especially for activities like surfing, paddleboarding, and diving. Cold hands can impair performance and make it difficult to grip equipment or control your board.
Types of Wetsuit Gloves
- Full-Finger Gloves: Cover the entire hand and provide warmth for cold-water activities. They allow for full coverage but may reduce dexterity slightly.
- Five-Finger Gloves: Traditional gloves, ideal for protecting your entire hand while providing full mobility in each finger.
- Split-Finger Gloves (Mitt Style): These gloves separate the thumb from the rest of the fingers, leaving the other fingers together in a mitten-like structure. They offer warmth while still allowing more flexibility than full-finger gloves.
- Mittens: Provide maximum warmth by enclosing all fingers together. Best for extremely cold conditions, though they limit dexterity.
Glove Thickness
- 2mm–3mm: Suitable for warmer water (65°F/18°C+). Provides protection and warmth without sacrificing too much flexibility.
- 4mm–5mm: Ideal for moderate conditions (55°F–65°F / 13°C–18°C). Balances warmth and dexterity for most water sports.
- 6mm+: Designed for cold water (50°F/10°C and below). They provide substantial insulation but may limit finger flexibility.
Key Features to Look For
- Seam Construction: As with boots and hoods, look for glued and blind-stitched (GBS) seams to reduce water entry and improve durability.
- Grip: A textured or rubberized grip on the palms and fingers helps prevent slipping when handling equipment.
- Pre-Bent Design: Gloves with pre-bent fingers allow for better grip and comfort, especially for activities like surfing or kiteboarding.
- Stretch Neoprene: Superstretch or high-quality neoprene ensures flexibility, allowing for a snug fit while maintaining mobility.
4. Choosing the Right Wetsuit Accessories for Your Conditions
The ideal accessories depend on the water temperature, the activity you're doing, and how long you'll be in the water.
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Cold Water (50°F/10°C and below):
- Boots: 5mm–6mm full boots with sealed seams.
- Hood: 5mm–7mm full hood with neck seal and chin strap.
- Gloves: 5mm–6mm full-finger gloves or mittens.
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Cool Water (55°F–65°F / 13°C–18°C):
- Boots: 3mm–4mm boots.
- Hood: 3mm–5mm full hood or neck hood.
- Gloves: 3mm–4mm gloves with good dexterity.
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Mild Water (65°F/18°C and above):
- Boots: 2mm–3mm boots.
- Hood: Optional (for sun protection or light warmth).
- Gloves: 2mm–3mm gloves if needed for protection.
5. Maintenance Tips for Wetsuit Accessories
To maximize the lifespan of your boots, gloves, and hoods, proper care is essential:
- Rinse Thoroughly: After each use, rinse your accessories with fresh water to remove salt, sand, or chlorine.
- Dry Properly: Hang them inside out in a shaded area to avoid UV damage and to speed up the drying process.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Clean your accessories with wetsuit-specific shampoos or cleaners, not regular detergent.
- Store Properly: Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them crumpled or exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
6. Recommended Brands
- O’Neill: Known for durable, high-quality wetsuit accessories for all conditions.
- ION: Offers top-notch gloves, boots, and hoods designed for warmth and flexibility.
- C-Skins: Great for versatile, flexible, and affordable accessories, especially for surfing.
Conclusion
Wetsuit accessories like boots, hoods, and gloves are essential for ensuring that you stay warm, comfortable, and protected while enjoying water sports in colder conditions. By considering the water temperature, the specific activity, and the features of each accessory, you can make sure you're equipped for any adventure in the water.