How To Store Wetsuits
Wondering how to take care of your wetsuit? We’ve got a step-by-step guide of do’s and don’ts.
Wetsuits are put under some of the harshest conditions that we are subjected to during our time on this planet. Saltwater. UV rays. Strong, relentless wind. These are the kinds of natural forces that chew through steel.
It’s these harsh conditions and exposures that make taking care of your wetsuit extremely important. Purchasing a wetsuit isn’t an inexpensive undertaking – a wetsuit is an investment. And just like a good suit, it’s worth taking care of.
So, how do you store a wetsuit? Here we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide of the do’s and don’ts in how to take care of your wetsuit. Make the most of your investment and treat your wetsuit with the respect it deserves!
How to take care of your wetsuit:
Always rinse your wetsuit after surfing, either with fresh water or a wetsuit cleaning detergent
Use fresh water to rinse out your wetsuit after every surf. This stops salt from crusting on the neoprene and helps keep things hygienic. If you can, use a wetsuit cleaning product like Piss Off. Piss Off is a detergent that has been designed specifically for cleaning neoprene and it will help kill bacteria and microbes in your suit.
Preferably, don’t pee in your wetsuit
We know it’s tempting, but if you can, refrain from the mid-surf relief. If you have to, it’s not the end of the world, just make sure you rinse out your suit properly post-surf.
DO NOT leave your wetsuit to dry in direct sunlight
This is a big one, people! After you rinse out your wetsuit, ensure you hang it to dry in the shade – and if there’s no shade, ensure it’s NOT hanging in direct sunlight. Additionally, always try to hang your wetsuit over a smooth, round surface, such as a balcony railing. Hang it at the waist with an equal balance on each side.
Ensure your wetsuit is 100% dry before storing
If you’re not going surfing and you’re planning on storing your wetsuit for a few days, ensure your suit is 100% dry before finding the right place for storage. The best way to do this is to dry one side of your suit, then, once that side is dry, turn your wetsuit inside out. Chances are the other side of your suit will still be wet. So, once again hang your wetsuit over a smooth, round surface out of direct sunlight. Wait for both sides to be entirely dry before storing. This will help prevent mould.
Store your wetsuit in a cool and dry place
Again, this is a critical part of the wetsuit care process. Finding the right place to store your wetsuit can make or break the lifespan of your suit, so make sure you aren’t hasty in throwing a semi-dry suit in a cupboard! You’ll want to find a cool, dry space to hang your wetsuit in. This will help your suit stay flexible and mould-free.
Additionally, you’ll want to use a large coat hanger with rounded shoulders for your wetsuit. Rip Curl wetsuit hangers are specifically designed to pad the shoulders and provide enough space for the wetsuit to breathe, so we recommend upcycling and re-using the hanger you are provided at purchase.
Remember to be gentle
Last but not least, remember to be gentle with your wetsuit! When you’re changing out of your wetsuit in the carpark, try to avoid standing on gravel or dragging your suit through the mud. Is that how you would treat a $500 dress suit? We didn’t think so…