Your wetsuit is an essential piece of gear that protects you from the elements, allowing you to fully enjoy your time on the water, whether you're kiteboarding, wingfoiling, or surfing. Proper care is crucial to maintain its performance and longevity. A well-maintained wetsuit not only saves you money over time but also reduces waste by extending the life of your gear, making it a more sustainable choice.
To keep your Prolimit wetsuit in top shape, regular care and maintenance are vital. And to make it even easier, consider using Prolimit’s Wetsuit Hanger and Changing Bag for proper storage and convenient changes. By following proper cleaning and storage practices, you can prevent deterioration and ensure your wetsuit retains its flexibility, insulation, and durability for many adventures to come.
How to Wash Your Wetsuit
After every session in the water, it’s important to wash your wetsuit to remove salt, sand, and grime. Here’s the best way to do it:
- Rinse with cold, fresh water: As soon as you’re done, give your wetsuit a thorough rinse with fresh water. Salt and sand can break down neoprene over time, so removing them is essential.
- Use a specialized wetsuit cleaner: Occasionally, you may want to give your wetsuit a deeper clean with a wetsuit cleaner. Be sure to avoid harsh detergents, which can damage the neoprene.
- Clean both inside and outside: Don’t forget to clean the inside of your wetsuit as well. Salt, sweat, and oils can accumulate, so it’s important to give it the same attention as the outside.
Drying Your Wetsuit
Drying your wetsuit correctly is just as important as cleaning it. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Avoid direct sunlight: UV rays can cause neoprene to deteriorate, so always dry your wetsuit in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
- Use a special hanger: Hang your wetsuit double over a hanger to prevent stretching. A good trick is to hang it double over something thick for a bit before transferring it to the hanger.
- Turn it inside out: Start by drying the inside of your wetsuit first, and once it’s dry, turn it right-side out to finish drying the exterior.
There are a few things you should never do when caring for your wetsuit:
- Never use a washing machine or dryer: The heat and agitation can destroy the neoprene material.
- Avoid hanging your wet wetsuit from the neck or shoulders: This can cause the wetsuit to stretch.
- Don’t leave your wetsuit bunched up or in a bag: Storing your wetsuit wet can lead to mold and bad odors. Always let it dry fully before putting it away.
When not in use, store your wetsuit flat or loosely folded to avoid creasing, as this can weaken the neoprene. If you notice small tears or damage, repair them immediately to prevent further deterioration. Caring for your wetsuit doesn’t have to be complicated, but a little attention goes a long way in ensuring it lasts. By following these simple tips, you can extend the lifespan of your Prolimit wetsuit, keeping it performing at its best and protecting your investment for more enjoyable sessions on the water.
Take care of your gear, and it will take care of you. Explore Prolimit’s range of high-quality wetsuits and accessories, designed for performance and durability.
From our 2024 fall collection onwards, all our wetsuits will be 100% neoprene free and FSC and CE approved.
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