The Ultimate Wetsuit Buying Guide for 2026: Thickness, Fit, and Style

The most common question we get is about thickness. Wetsuit thickness is measured in millimeters (mm), often shown with two or three numbers like 3/2mm. The first number represents the thickness on the torso for core warmth, and the second is for the limbs, allowing for better flexibility.

For the warm-water shorty and spring suits we're focusing on, you'll primarily see single numbers (2mm, 3mm) or a 2/1mm designation. Anything thicker is overkill for most spring and summer conditions and will leave you sweating.

Here’s a simple breakdown for 2026 standards:

Remember, personal cold tolerance and air temperature play a huge role. If it's windy and overcast, you'll feel colder. For a personalized recommendation based on your exact location and activity, check out our interactive Wetsuit Thickness Guide tool. It uses real-time data to give you the perfect suggestion.

A wetsuit's effectiveness comes down to fit. Its job is to trap a thin layer of water between your skin and the neoprene. Your body heat warms this water, creating an insulating barrier. If the suit is too loose, cold water will constantly 'flush' through, making you cold and defeating the purpose.

Here’s how a wetsuit should feel when you try it on:

• Snug Everywhere: It should feel like a compression garment. There should be no loose folds, baggy areas, or air pockets, especially in the lower back, crotch, and under the arms.
• Slightly Restrictive on Land: It will feel a bit tight and may slightly restrict your movement when dry. This is normal. Neoprene becomes more flexible once wet.
• No Circulation Cut-Off: While it must be tight, it should never cut off circulation to your hands or feet. You should be able to take a full, deep breath without excessive pressure on your chest.
• Check Key Areas: Squat down and stretch your arms. The suit shouldn't pull excessively tight across your back or bunch up behind your knees.

Most brands have a wetsuit size chart. Use it. Measure your chest, waist, and height accurately. If you fall between sizes, prioritize the chest measurement, as it's the most critical for both warmth and breathing.

Not all neoprene is created equal. While you won't find the super-premium materials of a $700 winter suit in an affordable spring suit, the quality has drastically improved from models made just a few years ago.

Neoprene Types

• Standard Neoprene: Most entry-level and mid-range suits use a petroleum-based neoprene that offers a great balance of stretch, durability, and cost.
• Limestone Neoprene: A more eco-friendly option that uses calcium carbonate from limestone. It’s known for being lighter and less water-absorbent.
• Yulex / Natural Rubber: This is the most sustainable option, made from natural rubber. It's becoming more common in premium lines but is still rare in the budget-friendly shorty market.

Seam Construction

For warm water suits, you'll almost exclusively encounter one type of seam:

• Flatlock Stitching: This seam lies flat against your skin, preventing chafing. You can identify it by its visible, interlocking stitch pattern on both the inside and outside of the suit. It's very durable but does let a small amount of water through, which is perfectly acceptable and even refreshing in warmer water.

How you get into your wetsuit impacts both convenience and performance. For shorty and spring suits, the options are straightforward and user-friendly.

• Back Zip: This is the classic and most common style. A long zipper runs down the back with a cord attached, making it incredibly easy to get on and off by yourself. It's the go-to for recreational users, dive schools, and anyone who values convenience.
• Front Zip / Chest Zip: More common on shorties than full spring suits, a short zipper on the chest or angled across the front offers a bit more flexibility across the back and shoulders since there's no rigid zipper spine. It's a great modern option, but can be slightly trickier to get into for the first time.

There is no 'best' option here; it's about preference. If you're new to wetsuits, a back zip is a foolproof choice. If you prioritize maximum shoulder mobility for activities like paddling or surfing, a front zip is worth considering.

Based on a combination of 2026 material updates, durability, and overall value, these are the suits we recommend for most people engaging in summer and warm-water sports.

Best Overall: O'Neill Women's Bahia 2/1mm Spring Wetsuit

O'Neill has been a leader for decades, and the Bahia series demonstrates why. The 2/1mm thickness is perfect for a huge range of summer conditions. It uses their Ultraflex DS neoprene, which provides fantastic stretch without the premium price tag. The back zip makes entry and exit a breeze.

• Who It's For: Surfers, paddleboarders, and general beachgoers looking for a reliable, stylish, and flexible suit for water temps of 68°F and up.
• Who Should Avoid It: Divers who need more durability around the knees or anyone in water consistently below 65°F.
• Projected 2026 Price: $120 - $140

Best Budget Performer: ZCCO 3mm Shorty Wetsuit

The ZCCO shorty is a workhorse that delivers surprising quality for its price. The 3mm thickness provides extra warmth, extending its usable range into cooler days or for people who get cold easily. It's available in both men's and women's cuts with either a back or front zip option, offering great versatility.

• Who It's For: Snorkelers, beginner divers, and recreational swimmers who want a durable, no-frills suit that offers excellent core warmth without breaking the bank.
• Who Should Avoid It: Performance athletes who need maximum flexibility; the 3mm neoprene is less stretchy than the premium 2/1mm suits.
• Projected 2026 Price: $55 - $75

Best for Flexibility: Seaskin 2mm Shorty Wetsuit

Seaskin has focused on a super-stretch neoprene build that feels less restrictive than many competitors in its price bracket. The 2mm construction is ideal for highly active sports in warm water where freedom of movement is paramount. The flatlock seams are well-placed to minimize chafing during repetitive motions.

• Who It's For: Kayakers, wakeboarders, and active swimmers who prioritize mobility over maximum warmth.
• Who Should Avoid It: Anyone who gets cold easily or plans to be in the water during cooler, windy conditions where a 3mm might be better.
• Projected 2026 Price: $60 - $80