If you’re going to be kayaking in cold waters and want to stay warm, you’ll need to wear a wetsuit. But which wetsuit should you buy? With so many different brands, models, and types of suits on the market today, it can be difficult to figure out which suits are right for you!
Luckily, we’ve compiled this list of the top 10 best wetsuits for kayaking around, based on their warmth, durability, protection from the elements, and how comfortable they are while paddling.
Table of Contents
Best wetsuits for kayaking comfortably: Quick look
- REALON Wetsuit Women and Men 3mm
- O’Neill Men’s Epic 4/3mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit
- Rip Curl Dawn Patrol C/Zip 43Gb St Surfing Wetsuit
- Hevto Wetsuits Plus Size Men and Women 3mm Neoprene
- O’Neill Men’s Reactor II 3/2mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit
- Goldfin Kids Wetsuit for Girls Boys
- Mens 3mm Shorty Wetsuit
- NRS Men’s 3.0 Ultra John Wetsuit
- Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Chest Zip 3/2 Wetsuit
- XUKER Women Men Wetsuit 2mm, 3mm
Let’s look at those in details what we like and what we don’t. Remember, nothing is perfect in this world. Here we selected these top wetsuits for kayaking based on theirs ratings, comfort, flexibility, user reviews and so many other factors. So, let’s dive into this.
1. REALON Wetsuit Women and Men 3mm
Specifications | Particulars |
|---|---|
Material | Nylon, Neoprene |
Sleeve Type | Long |
Closure Type | Back Zipper |
Thickness | 3 mm |
Seams | Flatlock |
The Realon 3mm Wetsuit has a lot to offer. It’s waterproof, which is a must for kayaking. It also provides plenty of warmth, so you can stay comfortable in cold water. The material is tough and durable, and it’s easy to put on or take off thanks to the adjustable waist and cuffs.
It features compression fitting chest and overall durable flatlock stitching for 1.5mm,2mm, 3mm thickness; glue and blind stitching for 4mm, 5mm thickness; ergonomic design that fits good; keeps warmer than other suits with less insulation material (only use this suit if you have good breathing technique).
This suit comes with an extra pair of gloves so that you don’t have to worry about losing yours when falling into the water! The price tag on this suit makes it affordable enough for anyone who wants top quality without breaking their bank account!
Pros
- Fits well
- Keeps warmer
- Cost Effective
- Beautiful look
- Good flexibility for kayaking
Cons
- Average durability
- Back zipper (though not a problem for kayaking)
So, if you are looking for a stylish and cost effective wetsuit for kayaking, REALON Wetsuit Women and Men 3mm is the right option to choose.
2. O’Neill Men’s Epic 4/3mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit
Specifications | Particulars |
|---|---|
Material | Neoprene |
Sleeve type | Long |
Closure type | Back Zipper |
Seams | Glued and blindstitched |
Thickness | 4 mm torso, 3 mm arms and legs |
The O’Neill Men’s Epic 4/3mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit is a great option that comes in a wide range of sizes. The zipper closure makes it easy to get on and off, while the 4mm Ultraflex torso, 3mm Fluidflex arms and legs provide optimal flexibility.
Glued and blindstitched seams reduce heat loss while you’re out on the water, while covert black-out zipper reduces water flow. LSD (Lumbar Seamless Design) for stretch allows you to move freely when paddling or surfing.
Ergonomic seamless paddle zones let you easily pull up your kneepads without having to take off your wetsuit completely!
Pros
- Easy to put on and off
- Good for winter kayaking.
- Cost Effective
- Multipurpose use like- surfing, cold water kayaking etc.
- Good quality from price point.
Cons
- Back zipper is not that good.
If you are planning for kayaking in cold water or winter, the O’Neill Men’s Epic 4/3mm will make your kayaking without the tension of hypothermia.
3. Rip Curl Dawn Patrol C/Zip 43Gb St Surfing Wetsuit
Specifications | Particulars |
|---|---|
Material | Neoprene |
Sleeve type | Long |
Closure type | Zipper |
Seams | E5 flash lining liquid tape technology |
Thickness | 4 mm torso, 3 mm arms and legs |
Rip Curl’s Dawn Patrol wetsuit is a great option for those who want flexibility and warmth at medium range price. With E5 neoprene, Thermoflex Neoprene, and E5 Flash lining, it has the best of both worlds when it comes to flexibility without sacrificing warmth.
The 3/4 length arms allow you to move freely when paddling or surfing, while the internal E5 tape on the rest of your body provides extra protection against cold water temperatures.
Pros
- Higher durability
- Front zip system
- Good Quality product
- Thermoflex Neoprene provide good flexibility
Cons
- A bit costlier than others in the list.
If you asked me to choose for you one from the 10 best wetsuit for kayaking, I will choose Rip Curl Dawn Patrol C/Zip 43Gb St Surfing Wetsuit for you. It is really a good quality product for surfing, cold water kayaking with greater flexibility.
4. Hevto Wetsuits Plus Size Men and Women 3mm Neoprene
Specifications | Particulars |
|---|---|
Material | Nylon, Neoprene |
Sleeve type | Long |
Closure type | Back Zipper |
Seams | flatlock |
Thickness | 3 mm |
The fabric of this wetsuit is 3mm neoprene + nylon elastic fabric, which is environmentally friendly, healthy and comfortable. The material is soft and smooth and does not easily fade. The product uses flat lock stitching to ensure that it has no sharp corners or edges, so it’s more durable than ordinary wetsuits.
The long-sleeved wetsuit also has a zipper at the back for easy entry and exit; its front panel can be unzipped completely to facilitate rider movement on the bike during competitions.
You can also choose from a variety of sizes, depending on the size of your body. The suit will not only protect you from the cold water but also from sunburns, rashes, and other skin irritations.
The suits are made with 3mm neoprene material and it has a back zipper that is easy to use for anyone who has problems with their hips or shoulders. It’s worth mentioning that these wetsuits are available in different sizes; therefore, more people can enjoy them regardless of their gender or age group.
Pros
- Good for multipurpose use.
- Perfect fit
- Super comfortable
- Good quality product for that price
- Cost effective
Cons
- Back zipper is not up to the mark
If you’re looking for a wetsuit that will keep you warm and comfortable to wear, then this wetsuit is the right choice for you. It provides all-over protection and has reinforced seams, which makes it one of the best options in terms of functionality.
5. O’Neill Men’s Reactor II 3/2mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit
Specifications | Particulars |
|---|---|
Material | Neoprene, Nylon, Spandex |
Sleeve type | Long |
Closure type | Back zipper |
Seams | Flatlock, seamless paddle zone |
Thickness | 3/2 mm |
If you’re looking for an ideal entry level value driven wetsuit with all the right features, then O’Neill Men’s Reactor II 3/2mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit is your best bet.
The backzip feature provides easy entry and exit while being water activity ready. It has a water resistant wind-resistant smoothskin neoprene that can be worn in any weather conditions, whether it’s surfing or kayaking!
The ultra stretch neoprene makes this wetsuit comfortable enough to wear throughout your day without any discomfort.
Pros
- Awesome flexibility
- Perfect fit
- Super comfortable
- Flawless cutting with nice finishing
- Easy to put on and off
- Overall good from price point.
Cons
- Sometime back zipper does not work good.
- Flatlock stitching lets water come through after long time use.
If you are a beginner or pro kayaker, I will recommend O’Neill Men’s Reactor II 3/2mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit to try. I believe, it is one of the best wetsuits for kayaking with so many user-friendly features and that’s why it is a highly rated wetsuit in the market today.
6. Goldfin Kids Wetsuit for Girls and Boys
Specifications | Particulars |
|---|---|
Material | Nylon, Neoprene |
Sleeve type | Short |
Closure type | Front zipper |
Seams | Flatlock |
Thickness | 2 mm |
This is a great value as it offers high-quality and high-density neoprene. It comes with a durable zipper and has multiple function, which makes it ideal for kids. Your kids can use this wet suit in different water temperatures based on your their needs, such as 50℉-67℉.
It also provides an excellent fit that will keep your child comfortable while paddling around on the water, even during warmer summer days. And if you’re not happy with the product for any reason whatsoever, there’s 100% money back guarantee from Goldfin!
Pros
- Good quality
- Good for kayaking, swimming, etc.
- Durable front zip closure
- Easy to put on and off
- Low cost.
Cons
- Thinner material than 2 mm.
So, if you like to take your child with you for kayaking in cold water or even moderately hot water, you should pick Goldfin kids wetsuit. There is no option for wasting your money as they guarantee your satisfaction.
7. Mens 3mm Shorty Wetsuit
Specifications | Particulars |
|---|---|
Material | Neoprene |
Sleeve type | Short |
Closure type | Front Zipper |
Seams | Flatlock |
Thickness | 3 mm |
The Mens 3mm Shorty Wetsuit is a great fit for kayakers who want to keep their body core warm and protected from the cold water. It’s made with 100% neoprene, which acts as a thin layer of insulation. This material also stretches and gives you additional mobility in your paddling movements.
The Mens 3mm Shorty Wetsuit also provides UV protection while on the water so your skin stays safe from sunburns or other skin conditions caused by long hours in the sun out on the water.
The best part? This wetsuit is available in many different sizes and fits snugly around your body—making it even more comfortable than just wearing regular clothes! You can wear this on all kinds of adventures, whether it’s kayaking or surfing or snorkeling (or all three).
Pros
- Front zip all the way
- Very easy to put on and off.
- Good quality at that price
- Comfortable for kayaking.
- Low cost.
Cons
- Average durability
A wetsuit that is easy to put on and off with front zipper system wetsuit is desirable among kayakers, surfer or divers. Under such a low price any kayaker can try Mens 3mm Shorty Wetsuit as their entry level wetsuit.
8. NRS Men’s 3.0 Ultra John Wetsuit
Specifications | Particulars |
|---|---|
Material | Neoprene |
Sleeve type | Sleeveless |
Closure type | Front zipper |
Seams | Glued and Blind stitched |
Thickness | 3 mm |
No matter if you’re a beginner or an expert, the NRS Men’s 3.0 Ultra John Wetsuit is the perfect choice for any kayaking enthusiast. This suit was designed with high-stretch Terraprene neoprene insulation made from limestone and recycled tires.
It’s titanium laminate adhesive reflects heat back to your body, keeping you warmer. The full-zip entry with a durable YKK zipper makes getting in and out of this wetsuit easy and convenient. Eco SupraTex reinforced seat and knees have 2 mm high-stretch panels that provide ultimate flexibility while paddling or riding waves.
Pros
- Front zip
- Greater flexibility
- Comfortable for kayaking.
- Durable
- High quality
Cons
- Price seems higher
Are you thinking about more mobility and flexibility? Yes ! NRS Men’s 3.0 Ultra John Wetsuit is for kayaking freely with ultimate flexibility as a result of high quality material and stitching.
9. Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Chest Zip 3/2 Wetsuit
Specifications | Particulars |
|---|---|
Material | Thermoflex Neoprene |
Sleeve type | Long |
Closure type | Chest zipper |
Seams | Glued and Blindstitched |
Thickness | 3/2 mm |
The Dawn Patrol Chest Zip 3/2 Wetsuit by Rip Curl is a great wetsuit for kayaking in cold waters. This wetsuit is made from Rip Curl’s E5 Neoprene, which is a high-quality material that provides excellent warmth and comfort.
The E5 Flash Lining keeps you warm during the winter months and makes this suit ideal for cold-weather activities such as ice fishing or kayaking.
The Dawn Patrol Chest Zip 3/2 Wetsuit has a full-length zipper closure with easy VELCRO® adjustable cuffs that give you an excellent fit while paddling on your kayak or SUP board.
Pros
- Very easy to put in and off
- Comfortable for kayaking
- Keeps warmer
- Durable
Cons
- Coslier
If anyone looking for a premium wetsuit for kayaking and already tried other brands, they can test the Dawn Patrol Chest Zip 3/2 Wetsuit. It is going to be a game-changer.
10. XUKER Women Men Wetsuit 2mm, 3mm
Specifications | Particulars |
|---|---|
Material | 90% neoprene, 10% nylon |
Sleeve type | Long |
Closure type | Front or back zipper option available |
Seams | Flatlock |
Thickness | 2mm and 3 mm available |
XUKER Wetsuit is made of premium material, super stretchy neoprene double-lined with elastic nylon. It is a great suit for surfing, kayaking and swimming, whether you’re a beginner or experienced surfer or kayaker.
The unique design of our wetsuit make sure that your neck stays warm and dry to prevent chills. It has adjustable collars so you can easily fit the wetsuit to your comfortable size, which makes it perfect for all body shapes!
The smooth skin cuffs are not only soft against the skin but also easy to put on/take off when getting into/out of your wetsuit in the water. It has two zipper system. The front zipper system has 3mm thickness while back zipper has 2mm thickness.
Pros
- Good fit
- Easy to put in and off
- Multiple closure system available
- Adjustable neck system
- Durable
- Good quality product under this price
Cons
- Comfort is sacrificed due to several zippers.
- Water seep in through neck zipper.
With such a low price, a wetsuit for kayaking that is well fitted for everyone and has greater flexibility, attracted thousands of customers throughout the year.
So, undoubtedly XUKER Wetsuit is one of the best wetsuits for kayaking or any other water sports.
How to choose a wetsuit for kayaking
There are many wet suit options for kayaking. This section will help you wade through the sea of information and find the best option for you.
Choose the right thickness
It’s important to choose the right thickness for your wetsuit. Your current water temperature will dictate what you need. If you are looking to buy a wetsuit for use in a warm climate, such as one of the US coasts, then it is best to find thinner ones that will make paddling easier and more comfortable.
Thicker suits are better suited for colder waters because they insulate against the cold better than thin ones do. However, thicker wetsuits can be more restrictive when kayaking; therefore if you do decide on a thicker suit make sure it is flexible enough so that this does not become an issue when out on the water.
Proper fit is essential to your comfort
A wetsuit should be snug, but not too tight. It should feel comfortable in the water, and not restrict movement. It shouldn’t be too long or short: if it is too long, water will pool around your feet while paddling; if it’s too short, it won’t cover all of your skin and you’ll get cold and uncomfortable faster.
How warm your wetsuit is keeps you in the water for longer
Most people who try a wetsuit on for the first time are surprised by how warm they feel. To be sure, this is one of their best features. Warmth is key to comfort while kayaking, and it’s why you’ll want to wear a wetsuit even in relatively cool water.
Most wetsuits have an assigned thickness rating: thicker suits are warmer than thinner ones and therefore more expensive (though not always). Thicker wetsuits tend to be less comfortable because they’re bulkier; however, their buoyancy compensation allows you to dive deeper than other models and still float back up easily.
Finding the right wetsuit for kayaking can be a challenge
There are several factors to consider when choosing a wetsuit, but one of the most important is determining what thickness of suit you should wear.
The thickness or “millimeters” of your wetsuit refers to how much insulation it provides against cold water temperatures. The thicker your neoprene is, the warmer you will be in colder waters.
As a general rule, if you plan on paddling in temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16°C), then choose a 1-2mm thickness wetsuit; between 55 and 64 degrees Fahrenheit (13-18°C), choose a 3/2mm wetsuit; and less than 48 degrees Fahrenheit (9°C), get yourself a 4/3mm wetsuit if you want protection from hypotherm
wetsuit temperature guide for specific thickness
Thickness | Temperature suitability | Season/type of use | Thickness description |
|---|---|---|---|
1-2 mm | 64-730F (18-230C) | Summer/Light weight protection | Thin and stretchy |
3/2 mm | 55-640F (13-180C) | Spring, Autumn/Light to medium warmth | 3 mm neoprene around the torso and 2 mm neoprene around the arms and legs |
4/3 mm | 48-570F (9-140C) | Autumn to Spring/Medium to high warmth | 4 mm neoprene around the torso, 3mm around the arms and legs |
5/4/3 mm | Below 460F (80C) | Winter/Very high warmth | 5 mm neoprene around the torso, 4 mm neoprene around the legs and 3 mm around the arms |
Questions asked by kayakers about wetsuits
If you’re an expert kayaker, you’ve probably heard all the questions we’re about to answer. If you’re just getting started with kayaking, your brain is probably spinning with questions about wetsuits. We’ll do our best to cover everything!
Do you need a wetsuit for kayaking?
You do not need a wetsuit for kayaking. You can wear just your swimsuit and be fine. If you are going to be kayaking in water that is colder than 70 degrees then yes, you will probably want some protection from the cold. If you are going to be kayaking in water that is colder than 60 degrees, then yes, you will definitely want some protection from the cold.
What are the different types of wetsuits?
- Shorty wetsuit: This is a short-length wetsuit that covers just the upper body, including your arms. It’s great for warm water (as in, not below 50 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Longy wetsuit: A long-length wetsuit that also includes your legs. If you’re going to be in colder water (below 40 degrees Fahrenheit), this would be the one to wear.
- Sleeveless wetsuit: The least amount of coverage, but still enough if you want something super simple and easy-to-put-on without having to deal with full sleeves and zippers everywhere! These are most commonly used by paddling enthusiasts who love surfing their kayaks in warm waters (above 65°F)
How do you pick a wetsuit?
The first step to picking a wetsuit is to take stock of the water temperature. If it’s cold out, you’ll need a thicker suit; if it’s warm, you can get away with something thinner.
How do you know what the water temperature is? You can ask your guide or look at local weather forecasts. You should also think about what kind of conditions you’re likely to encounter in the water: Will there be strong winds or choppy seas?
If you’re going kayaking on an adventure-filled trip along Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, for example, where sea temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) during winter months to 29°C (83°F) during summer months, choosing a wetsuit that feels right under those particular conditions will make all the difference.
What type of wetsuit is good for kayaking?
One of the most common questions asked by kayakers is “what type of wetsuit should I get?” There are many different types and materials of wetsuits that you can choose from, but it is important to know what kind works best for your needs.
If you are planning to go kayaking in the winter months, then a thicker suit will keep you warm.
However, if you’re going during the summer months then something thin will be better so that it doesn’t overheat or get too heavy on your body when paddling around.
In spring and early fall (or anytime there’s still cold water), an intermediate level wetsuit should do just fine!
What wetsuit is best for winter kayaking?
Wetsuits are made of neoprene, a material that is warm and flexible.
They’re designed to keep the body warm and dry, but they do have their limitations. Wetsuits are made of different thicknesses and designed for different activities.
For example, you wouldn’t wear an athletic wetsuit while ice fishing or surfing because it’s not designed for those activities.
When do I need a wetsuit for kayaking?
A wetsuit is a must when the water is cold. In fact, it’s recommended for any time you’re in water that feels like it’s below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
This can be in a kayak or on land, but keep in mind that if your feet are wet and you’re standing still or walking around, they’ll be colder than your upper body (which will remain warm because it’s moving).
A wetsuit isn’t just meant to protect you from the elements; they also help prevent hypothermia—a potentially life-threatening condition caused by an abnormally low body temperature.
The best way to avoid hypothermia? Always wear a wet suit when paddling if the water is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit!
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a lot of things to consider when choosing a wetsuit for kayaking. However, if you know what you want and how much money is available for your budget, then it should be easy enough to make this important decision.
The key takeaway from all this? If in doubt, just get in touch with us here at Kayak King! We’re always happy to talk through your options and help you find the best wetsuit for your needs.
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