Putting on or changing into a wetsuit is a process that challenges beginners and seasoned water enthusiasts alike. Whether you're gearing up for a thrilling dive into the depths or just going for a casual surf, struggling to wriggle into your wetsuit can be a universal frustration. This is primarily because of the slim fitting nature of wetsuits and the fact that neoprene does not slide easily of our skin sometimes. In particular it can be a pain in the but to slide your heel and foot through the legs of a wetsuit, often getting caught and stuck. The same often applies to your hands which can be difficult to slide through the arms of a wetsuit. The struggles can be summarized by the image below:
Fortunately, there are tricks of the trade that can make the process smoother for everyone. In this post, we'll explore four clever hacks to change into a wetsuit with ease.
- Using a Plastic Grocery Bag:
One of the oldest tricks in the book, using a plastic grocery bag is a household trick to slide into a wetsuit easier. The slippery surface of the plastic significantly reduces friction, allowing your feet and arms to glide through the wetsuit. The downsides of plastic grocery bags though are that they tear quite easily. Because of this people end up going through quite a through single use plastic bags throughout the year being not a great sustainable option, resulting in more plastic waste. They also fit quite awkwardly around your feet and can get stuck in your wetsuit. Additionally they also look quite bizarre to use.
- Using a Sock:
Another household item that can be better than nothing is a sock. Grab a long sock and roll it up, turning it into a makeshift wetsuit lubricator. The sock fits better than a plastic grocery bag but is less slippery and therefore a bit less effective but still a good option if you don't have anything else. Works with a dry suit but obviously not ideal if you're trying to change into a wet wetsuit.
- Using Dish Soap:
This is a bit of an odd one but it is used by some people! It seems more popular within the diving community for their ultra thick suits. Pour a bit of dish soap into the legs and hands of your wetsuit and watch your limbs slide right on through.
- Using the Surf Banana:
A more specialized product in the wetsuit-changing arsenal is the Surf Banana. This simple yet effective product is designed explicitly for simplifying the process of putting on a wetsuit and meant to be a sustainable upgrade to the plastic grocery bag. Made out of incredibly durable rip stop nylon, the Surf Banana is meant to withstand a lifetime of usage, making it a great eco friendly alternative to the plastic grocery bag. It also is designed to fit the shape of your fit more effectively, making it easier to take on and off after changing into your wetsuit. Coated with a special waterproof finish, this product slides through neoprene insanely quick. If you're looking for a sustainable upgrade to the plastic grocery bag trick that will last a lifetime, the Surf Banana is the best option out there.
Conclusion:
Changing into a wetsuit doesn't have to be a wrestling match with neoprene. By incorporating these four tricks into your routine, you can streamline the process and focus on the aquatic adventures that await. Whether you opt for the simplicity of a plastic bag or invest in a Surf Banana, these hacks cater to divers and surfers alike, offering a helping hand to both beginners and seasoned water enthusiasts. So, next time you gear up for a dive or surf session, remember these tricks and make the transition into your wetsuit a smooth and hassle-free experience.