Wetsuits, rash vests, swimsuits, board shorts – women’s surfing clothes can be a minefield.
The possibilities are endless, but the kind of surfing clothes you buy can make a huge difference to whether you catch that killer wave – or getting the worst sunburn of your life.
In this piece, we explore what women’s surfing clothes are on the market – what you could wear, why you wear them and when to wear them.
Women’s Wetsuits For Surfing
Shorty or full wetsuit? 2/3mm or 3/4mm? Flat-lock stitching or sealed seams? It all depends on the conditions you’re surfing in.
Basically, the colder the water, the thicker the wetsuit, the more coverage you’ll want and the more watertight the seams. A wetsuit should always fit snugly without restricting movement or bagginess.
When it comes to buying women’s surfing clothes, there are some great surf shops around the UK that stock women’s surf clothing extensively, with everything from Seea and Kassia + Surf to Roxy and Quiksilver on sale – and there’s always online.
Women’s RASH Vests For Surfing
Whether you go for a rash vest with a long or short sleeve is up to you.
Long-sleeved rash guards offer more coverage, while short sleeved rashies offer sun protection and don’t get in the way of your paddling paws. The decision is yours!
Rash tops are pretty important especially for beginners in hot countries. They help protect you both from the sun and stomach chafe – not a great look.
Women’s SWIMSUITS For Surfing
Nobody wants to be indecently exposing themselves while hitting the waves.
So steer away from the skimpy bikinis when it comes to choosing surfing clothes. Instead grab yourself a swimsuit with some solid straps and ample support to ensure the girls stay under wraps.
Bikini tops with racer/criss-cross backs can be great for support and making sure everything stays where it should.
Well-endowed ladies, beware halters! They can give you horrible neck strain if you aren’t careful.
Even tankinis can ride up at the most inopportune times – and tie-strap side bikinis are just asking for trouble.
Watch out for bikinis with any bits and bobs on the front which will probably feel pretty uncomfortable when they’re digging into your stomach or chest between your full body weight and a solid board.
And finally: white bikinis. Just no.
Women’s BOARD SHORTS For Surfing
Board shorts are a great warm weather option. If the ties on your shorts are irritating you, you can even get shorts with side ties!
Watch out for elastic waist bands, which can end up around your ankles instead of your waist if you’re not careful.
Lots of women are opting to wear special surf leggings while surfing instead. These can be made of neoprene or swimsuit materal – we are big fans!
