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Full Wetsuits for Surfing Australia

A fullsuit is the most versatile wetsuit you can own. With full-length arms and legs, it covers your entire body and keeps you in the water longer — whether you're surfing cold winter swells, early morning sessions before the sun is up, or travelling to cooler breaks. If you surf year-round in Australia, a quality fullsuit is essential.

Fullsuits are measured in millimetres of neoprene thickness, typically expressed as two numbers — the chest thickness followed by the limb thickness. A 3/2mm suit is the most popular all-rounder, offering enough warmth for most Australian conditions without restricting movement. A 4/3mm suit steps up the insulation for colder water, while a 5/4mm or thicker is reserved for the coldest breaks in the country. Choosing the right thickness comes down to the water temperature where you surf most.

Beyond thickness, the quality of the neoprene and the construction of the seams make a significant difference. Flatlock stitching is durable and cost-effective, suited to warmer water. Glued and blind-stitched seams keep water out more effectively and are the standard for mid-range and premium suits. Sealed and taped seams offer the highest level of waterproofing for cold-water performance. Entry systems — back zip, chest zip, or zipperless — each offer a different balance of ease of use and water flushing.

We stock fullsuits from the most trusted brands in surfing, including O'Neill, Quiksilver, Rip Curl, and more. Whether you're after an entry-level suit for occasional use or a high-performance suit built for serious sessions, there's an option here for every surfer and every budget.

Shop fullsuit wetsuits at Welcome Boardstore — Australia's home for surf, snow, and skate gear.

Got Questions? we have answers!

FAQ's

Why wetsuits are black?

Wetsuits are traditionally black for several practical reasons:

1. Heat Absorption & Warmth

Black absorbs and retains heat from the sun better than lighter colors. This helps keep surfers and divers warmer, especially in cold water.

2. UV Resistance & Durability

Neoprene, the material used in wetsuits, naturally degrades over time due to UV exposure. Black pigment provides better UV resistance, making the wetsuit last longer compared to lighter-colored alternatives.

3. Material & Manufacturing Efficiency

Neoprene is naturally a dark color, and black is the easiest and most cost-effective color to produce. Dyeing it into lighter colors adds extra steps and costs.

4. Hides Wear & Tear

Black wetsuits are less likely to show stains, fading, or discoloration from salt, sand, and sun exposure, helping them look newer for longer.

5. Traditional & Market Influence

Since the first wetsuits were black, the color became the industry standard. Over time, black wetsuits became associated with performance and reliability, making them the go-to choice for surfers, divers, and swimmers.

How Wetsuits Work?

1. Water Gets In: A small amount of water seeps in through openings (neck, wrists, ankles, seams).
2. Water Heats Up: Your body warms the trapped water, preventing heat loss.
3. Neoprene Insulation: The neoprene material contains tiny air bubbles that help insulate and retain warmth.

Can wetsuits go in the washing machine?

No, wetsuits should not go in the washing machine. The agitation, heat, and harsh detergents can damage the neoprene, weaken the seams, and reduce the suit’s flexibility and lifespan.

Can wetsuits be repaired?

Yes, wetsuits can be repaired, and fixing small tears or damaged seams can significantly extend their lifespan. Depending on the damage, you can either repair it yourself or take it to a professional wetsuit repair service.

Common Wetsuit Repairs & Fixes

1. Small Tears or Holes (Neoprene Rips)

✅ How to Fix:
• Use wetsuit repair glue (like Neoprene Cement or Aquaseal).
• Apply a thin layer to both sides of the tear, let it dry for a few minutes, then press together.
• For larger holes, use a neoprene patch with glue for extra reinforcement.


2. Seams Coming Apart (Unstitching or Water Leakage)

✅ How to Fix:
• If the stitching is intact but water is leaking, apply wetsuit seam sealer to reinforce it.
• If the stitching is damaged, use neoprene thread and a curved needle to resew it, then seal it with wetsuit glue.


3. Zipper Issues (Stuck or Broken Zipper)

✅ How to Fix:
• Clean the zipper with freshwater and apply zipper lubricant (like beeswax or silicone spray) to keep it running smoothly.
• If the zipper is broken, it’s best to have it replaced by a professional wetsuit repair service.


4. Large Tears or Panel Damage

✅ How to Fix:
• For big rips, using a neoprene patch and strong wetsuit glue works best.
• If a large panel is torn, consider sending it to a professional for a stitched and sealed repair.


DIY vs. Professional Repair

• DIY repairs work great for small holes, seam splits, or minor tears.
• Professional repairs are better for major damage, large rips, or zipper replacements.


Preventing Wetsuit Damage

✔ Always put on and take off your wetsuit carefully (don’t pull too hard).
✔ Rinse with freshwater after every use.
✔ Store in a cool, dry place, avoiding direct sunlight.
✔ Avoid standing or kneeling on rough surfaces to prevent tears.

By properly maintaining and repairing your wetsuit, you can extend its life and save money on replacements!