The Best Non-Slip Wetsuits for Maintaining Traction in Water Sports

Finding the Perfect Non-Slip Wetsuit for Water Sports

For water sports enthusiasts, having the right wetsuit is crucial. Not only does it keep you warm and protected in the water, but the right wetsuit allows you to move freely and perform at your best. One of the most important factors in choosing a wetsuit is finding one with a non-slip surface that keeps you from sliding around on your board or in your kayak.

Causes of a Slippery Wetsuit

Brand new wetsuits are often coated in a slick neoprene finish that can be quite slippery, especially when wet. This allows you to more easily put on the tight fitting suit, but can be problematic once you're in the water. There are a few other factors that can cause even a broken in wetsuit to become slippery:

• Algae, pollen, and other debris - Contaminants in the water can make your wetsuit slippery.
• Sunscreen and lotion residue - Greasy sunscreen and lotion can transfer to your wetsuit and make it slick.
• Silicone-based wetsuit conditioners - These lubricating products keep neoprene supple but leave a slippery coating.

Problems Caused by a Slick Wetsuit

Why is it such an issue if your wetsuit is a little slippery? For sports like surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, slipping around can really impact your performance. A few of the problems caused by a slick wetsuit include:

• Difficulty staying balanced - Slipping around makes it harder to stand up and maintain stability.
• Reduced control - A slick wetsuit can cause your feet, knees, or bottom to slide around, reducing control.
• Increased energy expenditure - Constantly repositioning yourself is tiring and reduces endurance.
• Decreased safety - Slipping off your board is dangerous and you risk hitting your head.

Tips for a Non-Slip Wetsuit Surface

If you find your wetsuit is too slippery, there are a few simple things you can do to improve traction:

• Rinse inside and out after use - Rinsing thoroughly prevents residue buildup.
• Use non-silicone conditioner - Go for wax or lanolin-based formulas.
• Install non-slip knee pads - Pads provide grip for your knees.
• Apply non-slip deck grip - Special surf wax adds traction.
• Replace old suits - Long-term use wears the neoprene surface slick.

Choosing a New Non-Slip Wetsuit

When shopping for a new wetsuit, look for ones specifically designed to resist slipping. Features that improve traction include:

• Textured neoprene - Small bumps or ridges grip your board.
• Grip panels - Patches of grippy material at key points.
• Knee pads - Built-in anti-slip pads for stability.
• Ankle cuffs - Tight cuffs prevent suit and feet from sliding.

Top Non-Slip Wetsuit Options

Here are some top wetsuits on the market designed specifically not to slip:

O'Neill Epic 4/3mm Full Wetsuit

The Epic uses strategically placed dots of sticky rubber across the knees, lower legs, and chest for traction. The lightweight Yamamoto neoprene also resists sliding. Great for surfing or bodyboarding.

Rip Curl E Bomb Zip Free 3/2mm Fullsuit

With E Bomb neoprene featuring a textured Bakelite surface, this Rrip Curl suit sticks to your board without wax. Designed for ultimate traction in surfing.

Feral 4/3mm Hooded Wetsuit

This wetsuit uses silicone Aquagrip printing on the knees and lower legs for a non-slip grip. Made for stand up paddleboarding.

Cressi Palau Long 7mm Wetsuit

The Palau Long has grip skin wrist and ankle seals to lock you into your fins and keep the suit in place. Great for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hyperflex Voodoo Slip-In 3/2mm Fullsuit

With its aqua grip neoprene and rubberized knee panels, this wetsuit won't budge while you're shredding waves on your bodyboard.

Caring for Your Non-Slip Wetsuit

To keep a non-slip wetsuit gripping properly for as long as possible, be sure to:

• Rinse inside and out with fresh water after each use.
• Hang dry out of direct sunlight.
• Use a non-silicone based wetsuit shampoo if needed.
• Avoid harsh detergents or chemicals.
• Store flat, not folded or bunched.

Taking good care of your non-slip wetsuit will help retain the frictional properties of the neoprene and prevent a buildup of residue. With the right grippy wetsuit and proper care, you'll stay locked in place and have better control in the waves.

FAQs

What causes a wetsuit to become slippery?

Algae, sunscreen residue, wetsuit conditioners, and wearing down of the neoprene over time can all cause a wetsuit to become slippery. Rinsing thoroughly after use helps prevent this.

How can I make my current wetsuit less slippery?

You can use non-slip knee pads, apply a surf wax traction grip, rinse rigorously after use, and replace silicone wetsuit conditioner with a wax-based formula.

What features should I look for in a non-slip wetsuit?

Textured neoprene, grip panels, built-in knee pads, and tight ankle and wrist cuffs all help a wetsuit resist sliding. Strategically placed dots of sticky rubber also add traction.

Can I use detergent to wash my non-slip wetsuit?

No, harsh detergents should be avoided as they can degrade the neoprene over time. Use a gentle, non-silicone based wetsuit shampoo instead.

How should I store my non-slip wetsuit?

Hang your wetsuit flat to dry away from direct sunlight, then store flat as well - never fold or bunch it. This will help retain the wetsuit's friction properties.