How Do Wetsuits Keep You Warm?
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Time to read 5 min
At Wallien, we believe time in the ocean should be inspiring—not bone-chilling. Whether you're surfing, diving, or paddling, the right wetsuit lets you embrace the elements with confidence. But how exactly does a wetsuit keep you warm in cold water?
Let’s explore the science behind your second skin and how Wallien wetsuits are designed to protect, perform, and empower.
Table of Content
What Makes a Wetsuit Work?
1. Water In, Then Warm
Despite the name, wetsuits don’t keep you dry. A thin layer of water is meant to enter the suit and settle between your skin and the neoprene. Your body quickly heats this water, creating a warm barrier that slows heat loss.
Wallien suits are crafted to minimize water flushing, ensuring this insulating layer stays in place—even in dynamic conditions.
2. Neoprene = Nature-Inspired Insulation
Neoprene is filled with thousands of microscopic gas bubbles that trap body heat. The result? A thermal shield that resists the cooling effects of cold water. At Wallien, we select premium, eco-conscious neoprene that balances warmth, flexibility, and sustainability—because performance and planet matter.
3. A Tailored Fit Means More Warmth
A snug fit is key. A well-fitting wetsuit prevents water from constantly moving in and out, preserving the warmth you generate. That’s why Wallien wetsuits are carefully contoured to fit and flatter—keeping you warm and free to move.
Pros:
Keeps you warm in cold water by trapping and insulating a layer of water
Provides extra buoyancy, helping you float and paddle more easily
Protects your skin from sunburn, jellyfish stings, and scrapes
Lets you stay in the water longer, even in chilly conditions
Eco-friendly options available (like Wallien’s limestone-based neoprene)
Cons:
Can feel restrictive if not properly fitted
Takes time to put on and take off
Not fully waterproof — a small layer of water enters the suit
Thicker wetsuits may limit flexibility and movement
Requires care and maintenance to retain performance over time
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What Impacts Warmth in a Wetsuit?
Not all wetsuits are created equal. Here are a few factors that affect just how warm your suit will keep you:
Thickness of the Neoprene
Wetsuits range from 2mm to 7mm. Thicker neoprene = better insulation. Wallien offers a variety of thickness options so you can match your suit to your water conditions—from tropical waves to winter sessions.
Seam Construction
Seams are potential cold spots. At Wallien, we use advanced seam-sealing techniques like GBS (Glued & Blind Stitched) and internal taping on our cold-water suits to block water and boost durability.
Suit Design
Our women-specific cuts and surf-tested designs help eliminate excess material, allowing for better performance and thermal retention.
Accessories Matter
Boots, gloves, and hoods can dramatically increase warmth. Wallien accessories are designed to integrate seamlessly with our wetsuits for full-body comfort.
Why Choose a Wallien Wetsuit?
At Wallien, we do more than make wetsuits—we design experiences that empower women (and now men too) to feel confident, protected, and free in the water. Every piece we create is a balance of performance, comfort, sustainability, and style. So what sets a Wallien wetsuit apart from the rest?
Tailored by Women, for Women
One of the biggest challenges women face when buying wetsuits is poor fit. Most wetsuits are designed around male body shapes and simply resized for women, often resulting in uncomfortable tight spots or loose areas that let cold water in. At Wallien, our wetsuits are specifically designed for the female form—with thoughtful cuts, anatomical shaping, and strategic panel placement that move with your body, not against it. The result? A suit that fits like a second skin and performs beautifully in real surf conditions.
Sustainability at the Core
We believe loving the ocean means protecting it. That’s why we use eco-friendly limestone-based neoprene instead of petroleum-based rubber, and employ water-based glues that reduce environmental harm. Our production process is built on ethical practices and low-impact materials—so every suit you wear supports the health of the planet you’re exploring.
Performance Meets Style
Function should never mean sacrificing fashion. Wallien wetsuits are made to perform in serious conditions while looking effortlessly stylish. From sleek black suits to vibrant, surf-inspired designs, we offer a modern aesthetic that lets you express your personality in and out of the water. Because we know: when you look good, you feel good—and that translates to better sessions and more confidence on your board.
Tested by Athletes, Loved by Communities
Our wetsuits are not just made in a lab—they’re tested by surfers, divers, and water women around the world in real conditions. We incorporate their feedback to continuously improve comfort, durability, and performance. Whether you’re catching your first wave or paddling out in double-overhead sets, Wallien wetsuits are built to keep up with you.
Longevity and Quality
A wetsuit is an investment—and we build ours to last. With reinforced seams, premium neoprene, and abrasion-resistant outer layers, Wallien wetsuits are made to endure seasons of salt, sun, and adventure. Plus, our timeless designs won’t go out of style, so you can wear them year after year with pride.
Full Wetsuits
How Do Wetsuits Keep You Warm?
Wetsuits may seem simple, but there’s a lot of smart science behind how they keep you warm. By trapping a thin layer of water, insulating your body heat with neoprene, and ensuring a snug fit, wetsuits turn cold-water adventures into something truly enjoyable.
At Wallien, we combine performance, comfort, and sustainability to help you connect with the ocean—without compromising on warmth or style. Whether you're chasing waves, exploring reefs, or training in open water, the right wetsuit makes all the difference. Ready to upgrade your wetsuit game?
Explore Wallien’s thoughtfully designed collection and find a suit that fits like a second skin—so you can stay warm, move freely, and surf longer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does a wetsuit keep you completely dry?
No—wetsuits let a small amount of water in, which your body heats to create insulation. A good wetsuit minimizes cold water flushing.
What thickness wetsuit do I need?
Use this as a guide:
24°C+ (75°F+): 2mm shorty
18–23°C (65–74°F): 3/2mm full suit
12–17°C (55–64°F): 4/3mm or 5/4mm
Below 12°C (54°F): 6mm+ with hood, gloves, and boots
How tight should a wetsuit fit?
Snug, but not restrictive. No large gaps, folds, or loose areas. You should be able to move freely and breathe easily.
Can I wear a swimsuit under my wetsuit?
Absolutely. Many Wallien wearers choose swimsuits or thermal base layers underneath for comfort or added warmth.
Do wetsuits wear out over time?
Yes—UV exposure, salt, and stretching can degrade neoprene. With proper care, a high-quality wetsuit like Wallien’s can last 3–5 years or more.
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Team WALLIEN
At WALLIEN, we're passionate about empowering women in and on the water. Our team combines love for adventure with a commitment to style, performance, and sustainability, so you can ride every wave with confidence.
