If you have been scuba diving, you have probably squeezed into a wetsuit, and you know what it feels like. Maybe it felt like an endurance sport just to be put on, or perhaps you experienced that uncomfortable flushing sensation when cold water rushes into a suit that's too loose.

We've all been there. Getting the correct wetsuit sizes is about comfort, safety, and performance. A well-fitted wetsuit is considered one of the most important accessories for enjoying surfing or underwater adventures, so you don’t feel cold and miserable.

Proper wetsuit sizing is necessary, no matter how experienced you are. Whether preparing for your first dive or shopping for a different water activity, you want to buy the right wetsuit that fits like a glove. You need to pay close attention to a size guide to understand how wetsuits should fit on you and what sizes best match your body and needs. Let’s look at how to buy the right wetsuit for your body and enjoy plenty of underwater explorations.

What Size Wetsuit Do I Need?

The right wetsuit sizes depend on your body measurements, including height, weight, chest, waist, and hip circumference. To determine your ideal size on a wetsuit size chart:

Take accurate measurements of your body (instructions below)
Compare your measurements to brand-specific size charts
Consider your body shape and personal preferences
Understand wetsuit sizing labels to decode manufacturer information

Remember: a properly fitting wetsuit should feel snug but not restrictive. Unlike regular clothing, wetsuits are designed to fit closely against your skin.

Understanding Wetsuit Sizing Labels

Wetsuit sizing can seem confusing with various labeling systems across different brands. Here's what common size labels mean:

Numerical Sizing Chart (Most Common)

Men: Usually range from 2XS/XXS (smallest) to 3XL/XXXL (largest)
Women: Typically range from 2XS/XXS to 2XL/XXL

Height/Weight Sizing

Some brands use height and weight (kg) as primary indicators. For example:

MT = Medium Tall (for someone with a medium build but taller than average)
LS = Large Short (for someone with a large build but shorter than average)

Body Type Sizing

Some manufacturers include descriptors that indicate body type:

A = Athletic build (broader shoulders, narrower hips)
F = Full-figured (proportional throughout)
S = Slim build

Specialized Wetsuit Size Guide

You might see labels that address specific body proportions:

LT = Large Tall
MS = Medium Short
LF = Large Full

Men's Wetsuit Sizing

Men's wetsuits are designed with a male physique in mind, generally accounting for broader shoulders and narrower hips. Here's how to measure yourself for a men's wetsuit:

Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape measure level.
Waist: Measure around your natural waistline at the narrowest point.
Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
Height: Measure from the top of your head to the soles of your feet.

Most men should focus on chest and height measurements as primary indicators for wetsuit size, with weight as a secondary factor.

Women's Wetsuit Sizing

Women's wetsuits accommodate female body contours with more hip and chest room and a more defined waist. For women's wetsuit sizing:

Chest: Measure around the fullest part of your bust.
Waist: Measure around your natural waistline.
Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips/buttocks.
Height: Measure from the top of your head to the soles of your feet.

Women should prioritize chest, hip, and waist measurements when they select a wetsuit size.

How to Tell if a Wetsuit Fits Properly

A properly fitting wetsuit should:

Feel Snug But Comfortable
The wetsuit should feel like a second skin, with no significant gaps or loose areas
There should be no pinching, binding, or restriction of movement
You should be able to reach your arms overhead and squat without extreme resistance

Signs of a good wetsuit fit

No prominent wrinkles or folds in the neoprene
No water-entry gaps around the neck, wrists, or ankles
No excessive pressure on your shoulders or restriction across your chest
Ability to zip up entirely without extreme effort
Proper length in arms and legs (reaching to wrists and ankles without excessive bunching)

Test the Fit Actively

Before you buy your wetsuit, check the following:

Mimic swimming motions with your arms to assess how easily you can swim and move your arms
Squat and bend as if sitting on a surfboard
Raise your arms overhead to check shoulder mobility
Bend forward at the waist to ensure no gaping at the neck

Remember: Neoprene will stretch slightly with use and mold to your body over time, but a wetsuit should never feel uncomfortably tight or restrictive.

Size Charts for Popular Brands

Different brands use different sizing standards. Always refer to the brand's size chart before you buy your wetsuit. Here are general sizing tips for some popular diving and watersports wetsuit brands:

Akona

Akona offers detailed size charts based primarily on height and weight, with chest and waist measurements as secondary indicators. They provide specific sizing for men and women, focusing on dive-oriented wetsuits.

Aqualung

Aqualung uses a comprehensive sizing approach, including height, weight, chest, and waist measurements. Their wetsuits often feature standard and tall options with specialized fits for diving activities.

Bare

Bare provides detailed size charts with multiple body measurements. They're known for having many fits, including standard, tall, and short options, to accommodate different body types for recreational and technical diving.

Cressi

Cressi's sizing system focuses on height and chest measurements as primary indicators. Their wetsuits typically follow European sizing standards with detailed measurement conversions for international customers.

Mares

Mares offers comprehensive size charts including chest, waist, hip, and height measurements. They provide specific charts for men and women, and sizing can vary between their recreational and technical lines.

Neosport

Neosport provides straightforward sizing based primarily on height and weight ranges. Their wetsuits feature a more generalized fit with standard sizing options that are accessible for various water activities.

Pinnacle Aquatics

Pinnacle Aquatics incorporates detailed measurements including height, weight, chest, waist, and hip dimensions. They offer specialized fits for different diving applications, while some models feature gender-specific designs.

ScubaPro

ScubaPro has one of the most detailed sizing systems, incorporating multiple body measurements and offering specialized fits including standard, tall, and short options. Their charts often include specific recommendations based on diving style and experience level.

Tips for Getting the Right Size

When in doubt, go smaller

A slightly too-tight wetsuit will eventually conform to your body, while a too-loose wetsuit will never provide proper insulation.

Consider wetsuit thickness

Thicker wetsuits (4/3mm, 5/4mm) may feel more restrictive than thinner suits (2/3mm, 3/2mm) in the same size.

Try before you buy

Whenever possible, try on wetsuits before purchasing. Bring your swimwear and allow 5-10 minutes to put on each wetsuit properly.

Check seasonal variations

Some brands offer "summer" and "winter" cuts in the same size, with winter cuts allowing for additional layering.

Read reviews

Other surfers and divers with similar body types can provide valuable insights on how specific brands and models fit.

Consider your activity

Surfing wetsuits generally have more shoulder mobility than diving suits, while triathletes often prefer greater flexibility throughout.

Wetsuit Sizing at Divers Supply

Finding and shopping for the perfect wetsuit size can take some time and experimentation, but the effort is worth it for the comfort and performance benefits of a properly fitted suit. Our staff at Divers Supply is happy to help you choose the right wetsuit size and advise you on which size best suits your body and underwater activity. Don’t hesitate to contact us with your questions.

Pick your new diving suit today and enjoy free shipping on orders over $25. Shop now and subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates and offers. Your next favorite wetsuit is just a click away!