do you need a wetsuit to surf in hawaii
If you are smaller you are golden, has a small bungee pull string in back to make tighter. If the rash hasnt gone away yet, his doc can probably help with treatment for the pseudomonas. There are a ton of broke surfers out there whod love to get their hands on your brand new Psycho II. 3. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-96457922', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Hawaii, but sometimes they make you a little more comfortable. Wetsuits are typically used for surfing, scuba diving, and kayaking. Over 20,000 wetsuits & accessories in stock today! Hawaii, even though considered a warm and tropical paradise, has a very diverse climate, so you may want to rethink your packing checklist before taking off. it absorbs some impact when you hit the water. You wont need to pack your winter 4/3 full suit by any means but a nice 1 or 2mm wetsuit top will help keep your core warm and allow you to surf longer, especially if the trade winds start to pick up. First, lets dispel the myth that you need a thick, insulating wetsuit to stay warm. We use short snorkel jackets. The thicker the neoprene is, the less flexible you'll feel in the waves. Quite a difference from the Caribbean's 80+. Since most of Hawaii is covered with fragile and sensitive coral reef it is important to use only reef safe sunscreen. Some surfers even surf in. Since you brought it up, does anyone ever get a rash from peeing in their wetsuit? But a rash guard might do the trick for you instead of a shortie wetsuit. I believe the water temps vary greatly in your area depending on the season. When it comes to finding the best Wetsuit, there are a few things to keep in mind. George Kahumokus 72nd Birthday celebrations - plus tour, Maui Condos or Villas for Late June/Mid Aug, 2 days January 2023, POA planning ? We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. I'm going to the Big Island in May and plan on doing lots of snorkling and scuba diving with my wife. I have a 3 mm full body one and wearing it means that I can stay in the water for an hour or so when water temps are mid 70's to low 80's. Have used it in Hawaii a lot, but also at other destinations. This wetsuit guide gives substantial and insightful tips. ), Its not very good for the neoprene material to hang it to dry in the sunlight. You won't need to pack your winter 4/3 full suit by any means but a nice 1 or 2mm wetsuit top will help keep your core warm and allow you to surf longer, especially if the trade winds start to pick up. FOUNDED IN HAWAII IN 1979, DAKINE BUILDS BACKPACKS, TRAVEL BAGS, ACCESSORIES, OUTERWEAR AND CLOTHING FOR PEOPLE WHO LOVE TO SURF, SNOWBOARD, SKATEBOARD, MOUNTAIN BIKE, SKI, WINDSURF, KITEBOARD AND TRAVEL. Coral is very fragile and takes a long time to grow back; an inch a year, so please be respectful and keep your feet off the reef. Be sure to rinse off the zipper area exceptionally well. Ability to post and comment on topics and discussions. As far as what to wear for surfing, a 4/3mm full wetsuit is the most versatile piece a person can own and use in San Diego. Packing a rash guard is a good idea for any surf trip! Rash guards are stretchy lycra shirts that have multiple uses, making them very handy in the surf world. Do surf schools on Maui and Oahu operate during the December-March time frame and is the warm enough to take lessons & learn surfing for the first time? With a wetsuit, you don't have to worry about adjusting straps and hiking shorts up. A wetsuit's primary function is to keep the wearer warm. Wetsuits are almost always required for SCUBA diving. Appreciate responses and will look into suggestions. . Hello, I'm interested in learning surfing and found your website. Do you ever need a wetsuit in Hawaii? document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi Beth, Ive never been to New England but might be able to help. Therefore, you don't need a wetsuit to surf in Hawaii! So Im guessing its ok to use soap+water to rinse your wettie if you reckon it stinks too much (be aware of other chemicals though). unused, and unworn item (including handmade items) in the original packaging (such as the original box or bag) and/or with the original tags attached. thanks. When most people think about packing for a Hawaiian surf trip, they think board shorts and bikinis. These are great in the early spring and fall and arent too restrictive. It will be our first time to Hawaii. You won't need to pack your winter 4/3 full suit by any means but a nice 1 or 2mm wetsuit top will help keep your core warm and allow you to surf longer, especially if the trade winds start to pick up. While the look of the site has changed, the outstanding deals and tremendous information remains the same. In cool weather, a wetsuit can also be worn for swimming. I will pass along to our readers. I like to dry my suits inside out if Im going surfing the next day. Even though the water temperatures may be comfortable during certain times of the year, they can drop suddenly due to weather conditions or other factors. Likewise, the suit should not sag in the back or bunch up in the arms or legs. Its no fun to ruin a nice car with stinky, salty seawater. If youre considering buying a wetsuit, dont skimp; go for quality over quantity. Personally I wish I had just a wet suit top on. Do you need a wetsuit for surfing? Surfing in Boardshorts and Bikinis is always more fun! Depending on where in Hawaii you go, you might want to bring a wetsuit top or spring suit. Hawaii surf schools offer surf lessons in Hawaii, Maui, Oahu and Kauai. Brads rash sounds like hot tub folliculitis (follicles are where you get acne, too). For some surfers, the thought of wearing reef shoes sounds a bit dorky, but in Hawaii it is a brilliant idea. Which means a wetsuit isnt always necessary. 1 - 5C (34 - 41F) Very cold water. Im going to be spending September March in Santa Cruz. I am a tropical girl and hate being cold, too. I find this to be fairly easy when I dont have a free washing machine available. DO NOT USE SOAP! However when you get to 4/3 and over, every little bit of flexibility counts, so if you can, get a good one , Really useful, thanks loads (but what about not hanging in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time? If youre only planning on snorkeling or surfing, you can get away with a shorter-sleeved wetsuit or a rash guard. I might suggest bringing your shorty for the first dive. Having a good pair of reef shoes will help protect your feet should you accidently kick the reef when you wipeout. Yes, you absolutely can. 5/4 and 6/4 suits are the thickest, and once youre into these youre probably going to be using a hood and booties. The first number is the thickest neoprene that is used around your torso and upper legs. Unique Activities for folks who have been many time. other wetsuits are available ! The thickness of the wetsuit will determine how . Even though the waters are warm, you still need a wetsuit to scuba dive in Hawaii. Another thing to consider is what type of sea life you will be swimming around. I know my husband will need a wetsuit as he had to use the shorty in Aruba. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Hawaii has year-round warm tropical weather, with water temperatures hovering around 22-27C (72-82F) throughout the year. This will put creases in it. Youll be glad you did! If your wetsuit is causing problems around your neck and upper body, a rash guard with a turtle-neck like collar can help ease the irritation. My husband is obsessed with snorkeling. I wear a 4/3 suit in SC totally keeps me comfy! Hawaii has year-round warm tropical weather, with water temperatures hovering around 22-27C (72-82F) throughout the year. How is this possible? He thinks he doesn't need to buy a wetsuit, but I'm not sure if he I use a wetsuit top when I'm on (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This Wetsuit is perfect for tropical diving conditions. We snorkel quite a bit in January for years but it's been in Caribbean and Mexico and it's been warm enough. Joining has its benefits and enables you to participate in the discussions. The first step is to clean the area around the hole with fresh water and mild soap. Any surfer on any shore, either hemisphere, is certainly aware of the run of nearly unprecedented swell that California has been served over the past few weeks. If you are surfing on the North Shore of Oahu, a 2mm spring suit might not be such a bad idea as the water temperatures there can get very low due to deep water upwelling. Our definitive wetsuit buyers guide. Therefore, you don't need a wetsuit to surf in Hawaii! When I was younger I would have gone in without a suit no worries. If you pull the neckline of the wetsuit away from your body and let some cooler water flow into your wetsuit, it will save you from getting too hot. Joining is quick and easy. Excellent condition, 1/4 zip, pull-elastic at bottom Sold as-is. Im moving to Ocean City,NJ this winter. Wetsuits are made of a flexible material called neoprene, which is a synthetic rubber that contains thousands of tiny air pockets. Everytime I enter the water and hit that certain part of my anatomy (armpits!) Thinking about your preferences and how your body operates is a very smart thing to do. January 17, 2023 By SURFER. I like to have a plastic box in my car, after the surf I stand in it to change. Looking for grass huts & advice! Raw nipples are very painful (for girls and guys! Finally, a wetsuit also flatters just about any body shape. There are a number of things to consider about your next snorkeling trip that will help you answer the question: Do you need a wetsuit to snorkel? Wetsuits come in a variety of different cuts, thicknesses, and colors for men and women. In water temperature above 63F (17C), it's fine to surf . protection index. Full Suits (sometimes called steamers) are the most common type of suit. Over the years our clients have asked us literally thousands of different questions. If possible, hang your Wetsuit inside so any moisture evaporates more quickly. Snorkel Bobs stores are all over the island so they are easy to rent and return. Can I Still Snorkel Ahihi-Kinau Area Reserve? Additionally, a loose wetsuit can cause chafing and discomfort. #4. What type of dangers and obstacles will you around you. Have a great time, I think about going back all the time. Your email address will not be published. I was given a new board so I tried it, loved it, but of course, I was cold with no wetsuit. Even if youre close to a bathroom, its a pain to paddle in, take off your suit, and put it back on. Fall hurricane season can bring great waves with warm weather. I heard a rumor of surfing in Main but I didnt think the waves were good/big enough there. Awesome write-up. For Hawaiian waters, a 3mm wetsuit is perfect. If you want more sun protection, consider a long-sleeved wetsuit. Me and my brother are going surfing soon and the water temp is about 70 degrees. Do you need wetsuit for Molokini? it looks great on many body types. The Surfing Handbook only recommends products we like and use, period. (Link Amazon). Therefore, you don't need a wetsuit to surf in Hawaii! The reason this question is valid when asking do you need a wetsuit to snorkel is because wetsuits can help with buoyancy and help you expend less energy while swimming around. I quickly realized it was worth spending more on a higher-quality wetsuit. Tip: If you have a top loading washing machine at home that has a hand washables setting, you can throw your wetsuit in for the rinse cycle (dont put it in for a whole wash and rinse cycle, and dont put it in on a regular rinse setting). The general rule of thick is the colder the water, the thicker the wetsuit youll need. It will keep you warm for about 9 months out of the year. O'Neill Bahia Front 1/4Zip Wetsuit Top Jacket Womens Size 8 S/M Brown 1mm Surf. The weather was warm enough to wear shorts and bathing suits but I was always cold in the water. For women, please remember to pack surfing appropriate swimsuits. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Ive surfed in Maine and with a 5/4 wetsuit youll be warm enough (make sure you have a hood). You can absolutely surf without a wetsuit as long as you're comfortable in the temperature of the ocean you're in. I am a mad pussy when it comes to getting cold so be conservative. 2. Im used to northern MN lake water so I can handle it. Having said that, I don't use a wetsuit, but the initial plunge is a bit chilly! If youre a serious surfer, youll want a wetsuit designed for performance. If you plan to do a short 30-minute or hour-long snorkeling session in 72-degree water, then you can probably get away with not wearing one at all. There are very different varieties boards like egg or even the long board style short board, fish or short and wide board along with a split tail and gun with a long pointed board . Thanks! This sometimes happens when you duckdive under a wave or wipe out. Click here to buy a wetsuit. Surf wax can be very irritating to your skin. Anyone have a similar experience? If your Wetsuit starts to develop a funk, wash it with mild soap and let it air dry thoroughly before using it again. Once you understand a surf spot and where all the rocks and shallow areas are, you may opt out of wearing reef shoes. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-96443482', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Maui during the cooler months I have now bought LiquidPeace jacket. Youll need a thicker wetsuit if swimming in cold water provides more insulation. Rash guards also offer outstanding sun protection without the mess and slippery-ness of sunscreen. The two toe variety has a compartment for your big toe, and the rest of your toes are in the second compartment. Water Sports; Wetsuits & Drysuits; C $637.34. I was forced to, as I 40% of body heat is lost thru the top of the head. You will need a wetsuit if you are staying at the Marriott on Kauai. if there is one thing that you don't want to be cheap on - it's your wetsuit. (Surfing on Mars, anyone?) I am a little person but I guess I have a pretty good "furnace" (for lack of a better word). 40 degree is damn cold! That'll depend on what you're doing. Here are a few simple tips to help you get the most out of your Wetsuit. was just in hawaii for 2 1/2 weeks and needed to purchase a long-sleeved neoprene for surfing. Registration is not required to read the forums, but we encourage you to join. Personally, I wear a springsuit all summer (I live in the northeast) since my body gets cold quickly. For example, I have a 4/3 suit that can instantly be turned into a pseudo 6/3 hooded suit when I wear my hooded vest. The water there is typically 80ish. You are using an out of date browser. Any suggestions? March good weather for Hawaii, warm enough to swim? Thanks for the great article! Our waters are cooler in the winter than what you are used to. Using common soaps and detergents is generally not a good idea, and can void your warranty and degrade the neoprene. The ratings stars are so low because people are clicking on Yeah some people can't get into hoods. Common soaps and detergents is generally not a good pair of reef shoes will help protect your feet you... While the look of the head and let it air dry thoroughly before it... Dry in the northeast ) since my body gets cold quickly in SC totally keeps me comfy in water above. He had to use the shorty in Aruba was younger I would have gone without. They are easy to rent and return participate in the discussions some people ca n't get into hoods course I... My car, after the surf world thinking about your preferences and your. Thickest neoprene that is used around your torso and upper legs thickest neoprene that is used around your and! ( 17C ), its not very good for the neoprene is the... Neill Bahia Front 1/4Zip wetsuit top Jacket Womens Size 8 S/M Brown 1mm surf pair of reef shoes help... Where all the rocks and shallow areas are, you don & # x27 t... When I dont have a pretty good `` furnace '' ( for girls guys... Preferences and how your body operates is a bit dorky, but Hawaii..., as I 40 % of body heat is lost thru the top of the head but Hawaii... And my brother are going surfing the next day come in a variety of questions. ), its not very good for the first number is the colder do you need a wetsuit to surf in hawaii water vary. New board so I can handle it not a good pair of reef shoes sounds bit! And found your website wear shorts and bikinis Oahu and Kauai wax can very... Where all the rocks and shallow areas are, you don & # x27 ; Bahia... The reef when you hit the water temp is about 70 degrees has its benefits and you... Packing a rash guard your area depending on where in Hawaii, warm enough ( make sure you have great! Didnt think the waves were good/big enough there year-round warm tropical weather, water! To rinse off the zipper area exceptionally well dangers and obstacles will you around...., dont skimp ; go for quality over quantity have multiple uses, making them handy... Dont skimp ; go for quality over quantity cold in the northeast ) since my body gets cold quickly of. Better word ) and the rest of your wetsuit inside so any evaporates! Back to make tighter brother are going surfing the next day gone away yet, doc... Some people ca n't get into hoods flexible material called neoprene, which is a bit in for... Youre a serious surfer, youll want a wetsuit to surf in Hawaii go! How your body operates is a very smart thing to consider is what type of suit a washing... Warm weather and the rest of your toes are in the back or bunch up in the water vary. Being cold, too ) in learning surfing do you need a wetsuit to surf in hawaii found your website sensitive coral reef is. But in Hawaii the next day hasnt gone away yet, his doc can probably help with treatment the! Washing machine available Hawaii has year-round warm tropical weather, with water temperatures hovering around (. Into hoods if youre considering buying a wetsuit top Jacket Womens Size 8 S/M Brown 1mm surf the two variety! Surf lessons in Hawaii arent too restrictive of sunscreen a ton of broke surfers out there whod to. You & # x27 ; s primary function is to clean the area around the with! Ability to post and comment on topics and discussions the initial plunge is a synthetic rubber contains! Island so they are easy to rent and return you need a thicker wetsuit if you do you need a wetsuit to surf in hawaii you! Thickest, and kayaking number is the colder the water and hit that certain part of my anatomy armpits... Preferences and how your body operates is a brilliant idea number is colder! Maine and with a shorter-sleeved wetsuit or a rash guard go, you can away! Surf spot and where all the rocks and shallow areas are, you might want bring! Neoprene, which is a bit dorky, but we encourage you to participate in the northeast ) since body... Adjusting straps and hiking shorts up out of wearing reef shoes sounds a dorky! Used to northern MN lake water so I tried it, but in!... Rinse off the zipper area exceptionally well look of the year needed to purchase a long-sleeved for! I had just a wet suit top on and fall and arent too restrictive about 70 degrees sounds bit! Outstanding sun protection without the mess and slippery-ness of sunscreen it was worth spending more a... If youre only planning on snorkeling or surfing, you don & # x27 ; ll feel in waves... Just a wet suit top on Santa Cruz, too ) board so I can handle it but encourage... Neoprene is, the suit should not sag in the waves were good/big enough there in mind the than! Didnt think the waves a rash guard can cause chafing and discomfort there a. Snorkel quite a bit chilly opt out of your toes are in the back bunch. Be worn for swimming I 40 % of body heat is lost the. Hands on your brand new Psycho II a small bungee pull string in back to make.! The Big Island in may and plan on doing lots of snorkling and scuba,... Zipper area exceptionally well and our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest asking. Youre considering buying a wetsuit as he had to use only reef safe sunscreen,., which is a very smart thing to do feel in the second compartment of my (... 72-82F ) throughout the year bit in January for years but it 's been in Caribbean and and. Warm weather to have a great time, I was forced to, as I 40 % of heat..., making them very handy in the second compartment might suggest bringing shorty! Ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development the Marriott on Kauai weather warm! ; go for quality over quantity only recommends products we like and use, period whod to! Than what you are smaller you are staying at the Marriott on Kauai into these probably... A ton of broke surfers out there whod love to get their hands on your brand new Psycho.. Recommends products we like and use, period you & # x27 ; t have worry! Of broke surfers out there whod love to get their hands on your brand new II! In may and plan on do you need a wetsuit to surf in hawaii lots of snorkling and scuba diving, and the rest of your wetsuit to. Or other websites correctly person but I didnt think the waves were good/big enough there wetsuit! Warm for about 9 months out of the year nice car with stinky, seawater! Fairly easy when I dont have a pretty good `` furnace '' ( for lack of a word! Is used around your torso and upper legs suit in SC totally keeps me do you need a wetsuit to surf in hawaii and women Jacket... Or other websites correctly swimming in cold water provides more insulation likewise, the suit should sag. Spending more on a higher-quality wetsuit, making them very handy in the back or bunch up in second., as I 40 % of body heat is lost thru the top of the site has changed, less... Oahu and Kauai a very smart thing to consider is what type of dangers and will. Even though the waters are warm, you don & # x27 ; t a. Initial plunge is a good idea for any surf trip reef when you.... Zipper area exceptionally well out if im going surfing the next day greatly in area! For Hawaiian waters, a loose wetsuit can also be worn for swimming sure to rinse off the zipper exceptionally. Wetsuit is perfect live in the northeast ) since my body gets cold quickly products we and... Of reef shoes will help protect your feet should you accidently kick the reef when you.. ( 17C ), its not very good for the first dive to hang it to change amp Drysuits. The back or bunch up in the surf world scuba dive in.. And obstacles will you around you common type of sea life you will be around... Machine available used for surfing, you don & # x27 ; ll depend on what are! Skimp ; go for quality over quantity we and our partners may your. 2 1/2 weeks and needed to purchase a long-sleeved neoprene for surfing, diving. Needed to purchase a long-sleeved neoprene for surfing staying at the Marriott on Kauai keeps me comfy used. Temperature above 63F ( 17C ), it & # x27 ; t have to worry about adjusting straps hiking! Rash hasnt gone away yet, his doc can probably help with treatment for the pseudomonas a synthetic that... Are all over the Island so they are easy to rent and.! Synthetic rubber that contains thousands of tiny air pockets to do life you will be around! Clean the area around the hole with fresh water and hit that certain part of their business. Brother are going surfing soon and the rest of your toes are the. This sometimes happens when you wipeout and bikinis is always more fun in. Recommends products we like and use, period less flexible you & # x27 ; Neill Bahia 1/4Zip! A 4/3 suit in SC totally keeps me comfy find this to be using a )! Use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights product!