What are Wetsuit tops?
Wetsuit tops are neoprene based tops that come in different styles and thicknesses. Some of the common cuts/styles for wetsuit tops include vests, short sleeve, and long sleeve. Additionally, a lot of these different styles will have different variations, such as pullover or zip-up.
When do you need a wetsuit top?
Wetsuit tops are great for when the water is too warm for a springsuit or full suit, but not quite warm enough for just boardshorts. Also, wetsuit tops of all sorts can also be useful in terms of protecting your stomach from rashes/abrasion from laying on your board (more so than a rashguard).
How do you select thicknesses and style?
Most brand’s wetsuit tops are going to start at 0.5 or 1 mm in thickness and go up to 2 mm. Here is a breakdown of wetsuit top thicknesses and the corresponding water temperature.
- 2 mm: water temperature around 60-65° F
- 1.5 mm: water temperature around 65-75° F
- 0.5-1 mm: water temperature around 75° F +
Note: these are approximate ranges and do not factor wind and UV. (If it’s windy and overcast, opt for a thicker top or even a springsuit)
Here is a graphical breakdown of wetsuit thicknesses based on water temperature from O’Neill.
In terms of style, the only thing to consider is wetsuit tops that are pullover-entry are typically trickier to get on and off, while zip-up entry tops are much easier. The rest is personal preference/up to you.