A wetsuit can absolutely be altered- in fact, many wetsuit companies will offer alteration services to ensure that your wetsuit fits you perfectly. For example, Terrapin Wetsuits offers repairs and alterations on all types of wetsuits, from neoprene to drysuits. They can repair tears, cuts, broken zippers, etc.- and most repairs are priced at just $30. So if you have a wetsuit that doesn’t quite fit right, or that has sustained some damage, don’t hesitate to get it altered or repaired. It’s an affordable and effective way to keep your wetsuit in good condition for years to come.
1. Why you might need to get your wetsuit altered
A wetsuit can be altered if it is too loose or tight in key areas. Altering a wetsuit is cheaper than buying a new one. If you need to get your wetsuit altered, the best way to do it is to take it to a local surf shop or sporting goods store that specializes in Alterations can usually be done while you wait, and don’t require much time or money.
2. What kind of alterations can be made to a wetsuit
Wetsuits can be altered to repair tears, cuts, broken zippers, and other damage. The minimum half-hour rate for alterations is $30.
Tears and cuts can be repaired by sewing or patching the damaged area. Broken zippers can be replaced with new zippers.
Alterations can also be made to improve the fit of a wetsuit. For example, the sleeves or legs of a wetsuit can be shortened or lengthened to better fit the wearer’s body.
3. How much repairs and alterations typically cost
The average cost for repairs and alterations to wetsuits is $40. The minimum cost is $30.
Wetsuits are made of neoprene, which is a type of synthetic rubber. They are designed to keep the wearer’s body warm in cold water by trapping a layer of water next to the skin. Wetsuits are often used by surfers, SCUBA divers, and other people who spend time in cold water.
If you need to have your wetsuit repaired or altered, it’s important to choose a reputable shop that specializes in this type of work. The repair or alteration will usually involve replacing damaged panels of neoprene or stitching new seams. In some cases, it may be possible to patch small holes or tears.
The cost of repairs and alterations will vary depending on the extent of the damage and the complexity of the repair job.
4. Where to go to get your wetsuit repaired or altered
If you need to get your wetsuit repaired or altered, there are a few different places you can go. Local surf shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers all offer this type of service. Some companies even specialize in wetsuit repairs and alterations, so it’s worth checking them out if you’re not sure where to start.
It’s important to properly care for your wetsuit so that it lasts as long as possible. This includes washing it with fresh water after each use and storing it in a cool, dry place. If you take good care of your wetsuit, it should be able to withstand years of wear and tear.
5. The benefits of getting your wetsuit altered or repaired
Your wetsuit is an important piece of gear for any water activity, whether you’re surfing, diving, or swimming. Over time, your wetsuit can lose its snug fit, which can affect your performance in the water. Altering or repairing your wetsuit can help it retain its original fit and improve your comfort and performance in the water.
In addition to altering or repairing your wetsuit, you should also regularly clean it and store it properly to prolong its lifespan. When cleaning your wetsuit, be sure to use a mild soap and avoid harsh chemicals. After cleaning, hang your wetsuit up to dry completely before storing it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
By taking care of your wetsuit and getting it altered or repaired as needed, you can enjoy many years of comfortable and successful water activities.
6. Tips for taking care of your wetsuit so you don’t need repairs
1) A thorough freshwater rinse. If you don’t rinse your wetsuit thoroughly after each use, it will start to smell and the neoprene will break down faster. You should rinse it in freshwater as soon as possible after each use, making sure to get all the saltwater and sand out of the nooks and crannies. If you can’t do a thorough rinse right away, at least hose it down before storing it.
2) Hang up your wetsuit properly. Hanging up your wetsuit is important for two reasons: first, it helps the suit dry more evenly so that there’s less chance of mildew or mold forming; second, hanging up prevents creases and folds in the neoprene which can lead to premature breakdown of the material. The best way to hang up a wetsuit is by its ankles, either on a towel bar or over the shower door. If you don’t have somewhere to hang it up, lying flat on a clean surface (like a bed) is better than folding or rolling it.
3) Turn the suit inside out each day until it’s dry. This may seem like an extra step, but turning your wetsuit inside out each day until it’s completely dry will help extend its life span significantly. The reason is that when wet neoprene rubs against itself (as happens when you leave a wet suit folded or rolled), microscopic fibers start to break down and degrade much faster than if those same fibers were rubbing against something else (like nylon fabric).
FAQs
Are wetsuits supposed to be tight around the neck?
A wetsuit should fit snugly around the neck in order to be effective. The neck seal is important for two reasons: first, it helps to keep water from entering the suit; and second, it keeps body heat from escaping. A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to fit one finger in-between your neck and the wetsuit collar. If it’s too loose, water will seep in and you’ll quickly get cold; if it’s too tight, you’ll be uncomfortable and may have difficulty breathing.
Can you cut wetsuit neck?
Yes, you can cut the wetsuit neck with scissors. Be careful not to cut yourself when doing so. Cutting the wetsuit neck will not damage the wetsuit itself.
What happens if a wetsuit is too loose?
A wetsuit that is too loose will not be effective in keeping you warm. The warm layer of water your body has heated will constantly be flushed out by cold water, making you very cold.
How do you cut a neoprene wetsuit?
A neoprene wetsuit can be a great asset when you are spending time in the water. However, if the suit becomes damaged or too small, you may need to cut it off. Here is how you can do so safely:
First, you will need a sharp knife or scissors. Cut along the seams of the suit, being careful not to cut yourself. Once the suit is cut, you can pull it apart to remove it from your body.
If you are cutting the wetsuit because it is too small, be sure to measure yourself before purchasing a new one. Neoprene stretches over time, so a suit that fit well when first purchased may become too loose after extended use. When measuring for a new wetsuit, take into account any changes in your body size since you bought the original suit.
