How long do wetsuits last?

This should help to dispel some myths - wetsuits do not need to be replaced every year!

I have been asked about this multiple times, so I thought I'd post a thorough explanation of why that is and give you some guidelines on what to look for when choosing a new wetsuit. This post will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision and hopefully save you some money.

As with any product, it is critical to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and cleaning. The better care you take of your wetsuit, the longer it will last. It should be noted that Manufacture warrantee covers manufacture faults not falling over and ripping a hole in it

There’s a common misconception that if you buy a cheap wetsuit, it will last longer than a quality brand name wetsuit. This is false. A cheap wetsuit normally won’t be able to withstand pressure issues caused by depth; I have seen some cheap 5mm wetsuits convert into a 3mm wetsuit within a dozen dives at depth. A well-made, quality wetsuit is not only going to last longer than a cheap one, but it is also going to be warmer and more comfortable.

Wetsuits are made to last a long time, but there are a few things that can affect their lifespan. The first is how often you wear it. If you only use your wetsuit a few times a year, it will last much longer than if you use it every day. Another factor is how well you take care of it. If you properly rinse and hang dry your wetsuit after each use, it will also last longer. Finally, the type of water you're using your wetsuit in can also affect its lifespan. Chlorinated water is much harder on wetsuits than salt water, so if you're using yours in a chlorinated swimming pool, expect it to not last as long as if you were only using it in the ocean.

There are a few things you can do to extend the life of your wetsuit. First, always rinse it with fresh water with a wetsuit shampoo after each use - this will help to remove salt, sand, and chlorine which can degrade the material. Second, hang it up to dry in a cool, shaded area - never put it in direct sunlight or in a hot car. Third, store it in a cool, dark place - excessive heat or light can also degrade the material. Lastly, don't forget to regularly inspect your wetsuit for rips, tears, or loose seams and get them repaired as soon as possible.

With proper care and maintenance, your wetsuit should last for several years. The lifespan of a wetsuit will depend on many factors such as how often you wear it, what activities you use it for, how well you take care of it, and the quality of the materials used. If you look after your wetsuit and use it for boat based recreational scuba diving, then it may well last anywhere from 400 to 1,000 dives (5-10 years) on the type of diving it is performing. However, if you are shore diving the wetsuits lifespan will be shorter than if you only boat dive due to increased wear and tear. In general, though, with proper care any quality wetsuit should provide years of comfortable use.

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