The Difference Between Wetsuits and Drysuits

Both wetsuits and drysuits are used for thermal insulation from cold, winter air and water temperatures. Both are very popular for year round river surfing, wakesurfing and standup paddleboarding.  Here in Idaho we know that surfing during the winter is pretty much impossible, but come spring time, we all get spring fever pretty badly! Often we're ready to get out on the boat and get back to the surfing and wakeboarding before the water temperatures are even close to comfortable. 

If you are as impatient as me and are ready to get out on the river and have some fun, it's important that you keep warm and safe. Both wetsuits and drysuits are designed to keep you warm. 

So What's the Difference between Wetsuits and Drysuits?

The main difference is in the material and functionality. 

Wetsuits are made of rubber neoprene and are designed to keep you warm when wet, but unlike drysuits, they are not waterproof.  So, if you have a loose fitting wetsuit you will get cold.  Wetsuits that are skin-tight are ideal for cold water surf sports because they allow you to move around more than drysuits.  

Drysuits, on the other hand, are completely waterproof, but not designed for warmth if used alone.  Drysuits keep all water out completely like a shell and fit loosely like a big ski jacket.  Drysuits have been primarily used for kayakers and divers, but now used for standup paddling and even wakesurfing.  New technology like SUPSkins have created drysuits with wetsuit sport-fitting functionality.  

In most cold water conditions a wetsuit is more favorable for performance in the water, while drysuits are more favorable out of the water.  Why?  Because of restriction.  For in the water activities think wetsuit because they are meant to fit skin tight.  Think about swimming in a drysuit versus a wetsuit, which suit will allow for more speed and greater maneuverability?  

For those who do not want to get any cold water on their skin and do not necessarily care about restriction, then a drysuit is a great option because of its waterproof characteristics.  In extremely cold conditions when normal wetsuit movements become restricted by the temperature, then drysuits would be more favorable.  

When it's cold think wetsuit for:  surfing, wakesurfing, wakeboarding (in the water activities)

When it's extremely cold think drysuit for:  kayaking, paddleboarding, taking action photos in the water (out of the water activities or in extreme cold conditions)

For extreme winter standup paddleboarding conditions a drysuit is a great choice because you can add additional layers of warmth beneath the suit.  

For wakesurfers, wakeboarders, paddleboarders and everyone who loves water sports, a quality wetsuit or drysuit (depending on your needs) is well worth taking the time to decide which one is the best fit for you. If you have questions about which wetsuit or drysuit to buy, come by and talk to us at Precision Boats in Idaho Falls. We have a huge selection and our staff is very knowledgable on the subject and can help you decide. 

We are here to help you and your family have the best summer you've ever had. Let's make this the summer to remember!