If you are planning to come to Tarifa to practise Kitesurf, surely you are interested in what equipment you will need for your experience. In this blog, we will try to explain the different aspects that you must know to practise your favourite sport. We will talk about how to select the perfect wetsuit. To choose a good wetsuit, the first thing we need to know is that there are several types of fabric with which this suit can be made. This fact is really important when practising water sports such as kitesurf.
Neoprene
Before checking what types of wetsuits there are, we should know that neoprene is a material derived from rubber. It resists and isolates from extreme temperatures without losing its flexibility. It is also a strong material that withstands inclement weather and wears and tear.
Types of neoprene
There are three types of neoprene. The first one is the standard neoprene, designed for kite surfers who practise this sport occasionally. As for the price, it is the cheapest of all. Its main downside is that it is the least flexible and, therefore, does not give us as much freedom of movement as other neoprene materials. The second type is the stretch neoprene. It is designed for more frequent kitesurfers, it has more flexibility compared to the previous one and the price is somewhat higher. The last one is known as “sealskin”. It is a laminated material that protects like no other from the wind. The downside points are its fragility compared to others and the price. Due to its material, the suit is highly insulated and, therefore, the price is higher than others.
Suit thickness
The perfect wetsuit is essential for kitesurfing in the autumn and winter, and as a complement for spring and summer. We must know that there are several thicknesses of neoprene designed to be used at different times of the year. The thickness is expressed in this way: for example, thickness 4/3 (meaning that the suit has 4 mm in the trunk area of our body, and 3 mm in the limbs, legs and arms areas). The thickness of the wetsuit will vary depending on the temperature of the area and the time of the year. There are thicknesses from 3/2 for warmer areas or spring and fall seasons. An up to 6/4 for the coldest areas and times of the year.
The design
Regarding the design of the wetsuit, we can choose between various types and sizes. You must always take into account safety, comfort and the season and the outside temperature of your area. This way, we have full suits that cover the whole body from the ankles to the wrists, ideal for colder times and areas. They are available in most thicknesses and for both girls and boys, always considering their comfort according to their anatomy. For this wetsuit, it is recommended to put your feet through it with a plastic bag in between. This way, it is easier to slide into the suit without forcing its elasticity. The “pirate” wetsuit is long-sleeved but its legs are cut below the knees, perfect for the autumn and winter seasons and with 4/3 thickness. It is perfect for sunny winter days. Finally, the shorty wetsuit is short-sleeved and its legs are cut below the knees. It is recommended to wear this wetsuit in summer to avoid hypothermia in case of a shipwreck. Keep this in mind: choosing the perfect wetsuit becomes essential in this sport. Be sure to follow our advice so that your kitesurf experience becomes unforgettable.
