How to Choose the Right Wetsuit Thickness for UK Surfing

Why Thickness Matters More Than Brand

Wetsuits are measured in millimetres, usually written as two numbers like 4/3mm. The first number is the thickness of the neoprene around your torso and core, the second is the thickness around your arms and legs, where you need more flexibility for paddling. More neoprene means more warmth, but also more weight and less mobility. Getting the balance right for the water temperature you're surfing in makes every session more comfortable, and lets you stay out longer.

UK Water Temperatures Through the Seasons

North Devon's water temperature swings more than people expect across the year:

Summer (June–September): Around 16–19°C. A 3/2mm steamer is usually enough, especially with a long surf session in warm afternoon sun.

Spring/Autumn (April–May, October–November): Around 12–15°C. This is where a 4/3mm earns its keep — warm enough for comfort, flexible enough that you're not fighting the suit.

Winter (December–March): Water can drop to 8–10°C. A 5/4mm or 5/4/3mm with a hood is the standard here. Underestimating winter thickness is the most common mistake we see.

Other Things That Affect What You Need

Thickness isn't the only variable worth thinking about:

Seam construction — flatlock seams suit warmer water, glued and blind-stitched (GBS) seams keep more water out for colder conditions.

How long you're in the water — a two-hour dawn patrol needs more warmth margin than a quick 30-minute blast.

Your own cold tolerance — some surfers run warmer or colder than others, and it's worth sizing up on thickness if you know you feel the cold quickly.

Fit ... a wetsuit that's too loose lets water flush through and cools you down fast, regardless of thickness. A snug, well-fitted 3/2mm will often outperform a baggy 4/3mm.

Our Recommendation for North Devon Surfers

If you only want to own one wetsuit, a 4/3mm is the most versatile choice for our coastline, it'll see you through spring, autumn, and cooler summer mornings comfortably, and with a decent pair of boots and gloves it'll stretch into the shoulder seasons of winter too.

If you're surfing year-round, most of our regulars end up with two suits: a 3/2mm for summer and a 5/4mm for winter, picking up accessories like boots, gloves, and a hood as the water cools.

Browse Wetsuits by Season

We stock a full range of men's, women's, and children's wetsuits, plus wetsuit accessories like boots, gloves and hoods for when the temperature really drops. Not sure which suit fits your build? Pop into the shop on Barton Road or get in touch, we fit wetsuits every day and can talk you through it in a couple of minutes.

Not ready to buy? You can also hire a wetsuit from us for your next Woolacombe session.