The Different Sorts of Wetsuits Revealed11.25.09

It is easy to get confused about the various types of wetsuits for sale. Advances in manufacturing processes and materials are in some way to blame, as are the new uses that wetsuits are being used for. Occasionally ‘new’ wetsuits are only produced as part of the marketing campaign of the manufacturer. Selecting the right wetsuit is however simpler when we have a better understanding of the styles of wetsuit that are available.

Popular Wetsuit Styles

Shorty Wetsuits or Spring suits – cover the torso and the upper parts of your arms and legs, although they also come with long sleeves for the arms or legs.

Long Johns – like a fullsuit with uncovered arms. The terms Farmer John and Farmer Jane are also used.

Full suit wetsuits – these have long sleeves for the limbs so give good insulation in colder conditions.

Wetsuit Vest – pretty straightforward – useful for added body insulation.

Wetsuit Jacket – gives additional insulation for the upper body and arms. Available in both short sleeved and long sleeved version.

The Thickness Of The Wetsuit

It is easy to work out that how thick the wetsuit is will affect how warm it is. There is in some ways a balance that has to be found between being warm enough and having the flexibility to enjoy using the wetsuit. Since wetsuit design and components have advanced it has become simpler to buy wetsuits that give us warmth and flexibility.

5/3 is also a common wetsuit thickness – this indicates that the body material is 5 millimeters while the arms and legs are protected with 3mm material.

Wetsuit Stitching

It is not necessarily obvious but today’s wetsuits incorporate complex technologies. The type of seams used in the wetsuit will have a critical role to play in determining how warm we will be. The kinds of stitching that you will often see are -

Overlocked Stitching

This is fairly old technology and is more likely to be seen on a cheaper, warm water wetsuit. Overlocked stitching wetsuits have ridged seams which are not great, in both comfort and insulation. Overlocked seams are however pretty durable and will last for quite some time.

Flatlocking Stitching

This sort of stitching does not result in the problematic ridges that overlocked seams can produce. Not to be ideal for colder water use as some water will seep through the seams and reduce your insulation.

Seams With Blindstitched Stitching

This is carried out with curved needles that do not puncture the entire material. Glue is combined with the stitches to make the seam stronger which produces a watertight seam. Eventually the seam’s watertightness will reduce. Further maintenance is therefore essential to maximize the insulation of the wetsuit.

The Blindstitched & Taped Seam

Taping, in addition to blindstitching increases the amount of insulation in the wetsuit. Fabric, neoprene or liquid tapes may be used to strengthen the seam.

I hope that this brief summary has been useful. Check out affordable wetsuits for sale now. If you would like to grab a bargain wetsuit then see our cheap wetsuits.

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What Scuba Diving Equipment To Buy10.20.09

Are you are a scuba diving enthusiast and looking for some help deciding what to buy to complete your scuba diving equipment? Well, fret not. We will outline the four major things you must have for a safe and enjoyable scuba diving expedition.

Mask

Of course one of the most important pieces of scuba diving equipment that you are going to have to get is the mask. This is what is going to protect your face under the water and help you to breathe. With the mask you are going to be able to see clearly under the water and it will also help to increase your field of vision.

You must consider several points while buying a mask. For starters, you must ensure that it is suitable for your face size, which you can do by putting it on. Another thing to consider is the comfort level. Furthermore, if you must wear prescription lens then that needs to be taken care of as well.

Fins

The second important “must-buy” items you will need to complete your scuba diving equipment are the fins. The fins will assist you in swimming underwater with ease and finesse.

Wetsuit

How can we ever forget the wetsuit? It plays its own unique role in making your scuba diving experience a great one. Hence, it is another must have scuba diving equipment. The wetsuit helps in keeping you warm and cozy, while at the same time ensuring that you can move smoothly and efficiently underwater.

Regulator

The word regulator may make you wonder, what’s it got to do with the must-haves list of scuba diving equipment? Whilst you may not be wearing it on any parts of your body, it plays an equally important role as the other tools. The role of the regulator is to manage the pressure and flow of the oxygen. This way you can relax and breathe nice and easy underwater. So don’t even think of venturing underwater, without a regulator.

These are just the four most basic pieces, and there are certainly many others that you could equip yourself with as well. Just make sure that you take your time when shopping for equipment and make sure that it is the best.

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Learn About Surfing : Clothing & Gear08.30.09

Surfing gear and clothing is the focus of this installment of our guide to how to surf.

Surfing doesn’t require any equipment beyond a surfboard, but more advanced surfers also find wetsuits and surfboard wax to be useful.

Your average surfboard comes in around 2.7 meters lengthwise and 55-60cm in width. Although there are many styles of boards available most are generally made from polyurethane foam with a fiberglass coating. Most come equipped with a fin underneath a board and a long strap that can be attached to one’s ankle.

For those just learning how to surf a wide, thick board that has a gradual oval shape to it with a rounded tip is the best way to go as it offers the best balance and buoyancy for maximum safety. Even before buying, you should consider renting a board in order to see if learning how to surf is the best thing for you.

Many surfers will advise you to apply wax, but it is not necessary. The reason wax helps is that the surface of a board is usually slippery and when this is combined with water it can become dangerous. Surfboard wax is generally used on the areas of the board that make contact with your feet and hands.

The need for a wetsuit is mainly determined by the region in which you are surfing and your own natural resistance to cold conditions. Just because you are constantly moving and working while surfing does not mean that your body temperature will stay high; the water around you will start to lower it and the suit will provide you with warmth.

Wearing a wetsuit keeps you warm whilst surfing, even in particularly cold waters, because a thin layer of moisture is trapped between your it and your skin and is heated by your body. A wetsuit is lightweight and made with material of high elasticity and so it won’t impair your range of motion. These can also be rented at popular surfing locations.

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ONEILL WETSUITS Youth Mutant 4/3 w/ Hood08.28.09

oneill-wetsuits-wetsuits ONEILL WETSUITS Youth Mutant 4/3 w/ Hood

The Youth O???Neill Mutant fullsuit. The next generation of mutants have come alive! Our patent-pending Modular Closure system makes the Mutant the most versatile wetsuit in our line. Now with UltraFlex XDS neoprene technology, the Mutant is more flexible and lighter than ever before. RAW MATERIALS: Body: 70% UltraFlex XDS, 30% FluidFlex Chest/Lumbar: Smooth Skin/Firewall X-type Modular Closure: UltraFlex DS with D-foam Knee: Kevlar with D-Foam Neck Facing: Glideskin Side Hood: Smooth Skin FEATURES: Exterior Fluid Seam Weld Patent Pending Modular Closure System Detachable Crew Neck and Hood Included Krypto Knee Padz - #5 Membrain Zipper Plasma Wrist and Ankle Seals External Key Po

 
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Cressi Elastic Belt Inox Buckle08.28.09

wetsuits Cressi Elastic Belt Inox Buckle

Cressi Elastic Belt Inox Buckle. Rubber weight belt with stainless steel buckle. Because it is made from a stretch material the belt automatically tightens up during descent when it generally loosens due to abdominal pressure and the reduction in the thickness of the wetsuit. Consequently the belt always fits snugly against the diver in every phase of the dive. The quick-release stainless steel buckle provides instinctive and rapid emergency release. The buckle pin passes through is very strong and is riveted at both ends. Total length 133cm.

 
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ONEILL WETSUITS Youth Mutant 3/2 W/Hood08.28.09

oneill-wetsuits-wetsuits ONEILL WETSUITS Youth Mutant 3/2 W/Hood

Youth Mutant 3/2 W/Hood…For Fall ???07, the mutation process continues with sick and twisted design upgrades and the new Youth Mutant Series. Featuring O???Neill???s exclusive urethane coated Membrain Zipper, the patent pending Modular Closure System is the most innovative chest zip system on the market. Firewall X-type and the redesigned Krypto Knee Padz greatly improve the fit and ergonomics of this series. The new Exterior Fluid Seam Weld seam construction makes this two-headed monster the star performer of the wetsuit freakshow.

 
$200.00 | Read more...
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Bass Pro Shops XPS Steam Spring Wetsuit for Ladies08.28.09

ladies-wetsuit Bass Pro Shops XPS Steam Spring Wetsuit for Ladies

Packed with performance features, the XPS Steam Spring Wetsuit for Ladies keeps you warm while playing in the water without getting in your way. Its soft, lightweight, flexible, ozone resistant Aqualite Neoprene delivers great performance and ease of motion in all water sports activities. This special 2mm four-way stretch blended neoprene delivers better durability and warmth than standard neoprene. In addition, this suit also features Aquaflex high stretch neoprene in the arm, underarm, side, and lumbar panels to provide extra flexibility and performance. Durable four-needle flatlock seams deliver strength, comfort, and durability without the rash or discomfort other seams can cause. Mesh Skin finish on the chest and back panels of the Steam increases the neoprene’s strength and abrasion resistance, as well as shedding water and the wind better for a warmer suit. Rolled and hemmed cuffs keep warmth in and water out while you are having fun in the water. Panels that are anatomically designed for a woman provide an all-important superior fit. Lockout zip closure features a specially designed neck flap that provides a comfortable fit to keep water from making its way down the back. Velcro strap below the zipper prevents it from sliding down. Imported. Features: Flexible high performance spring wetsuit Soft, lightweight Aqualite Neoprene construction Four-way stretch neoprene blend for durability and warmth Special, high stretch Aquaflex neoprene in the arm, underarm, side, and lumbar panels Strong, durable, and comfortable flatlock seams Mesh Skin finish on chest and back panels - sheds water and wind for warmth Lockout zip closure Rolled and hemmed cuffs Great fit for women thanks to anatomically designed suit

 
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Bass Pro Shops XPS Venom Full Wet Suit for Men08.27.09

mens-wetsuit Bass Pro Shops XPS Venom Full Wet Suit for Men

The XPS Venom Full Wet Suit combines the warmth of a full suit with plenty of performance features to deliver a suit you can have lots of fun in during cooler situations. Its soft, lightweight, flexible, ozone resistant Aqualite Neoprene delivers great performance and ease of motion in all water sports activities. This special four-way stretch blended neoprene delivers better durability and warmth than standard neoprene. Neoprene measures 3mm in the torso panels and 2mm on the arms and legs. The Venom Full also features Aquaflex high stretch neoprene in the underarm, side, and lower lumbar panels to provide extra flexibility and performance. The suit’s shoulder panels sport anti-fray polyurethane ink protection. Wrist and ankles feature glideskin seals to prevent flushing. Durable four-needle flatlock seams deliver strength, comfort, and durability without the rash or discomfort other seams can cause. Mesh Skin finish on the chest and back panels of the Venom increases the neoprene’s strength and abrasion resistance, as well as shedding water and the wind better for a warmer suit. Anatomically designed for an all-important superior fit. Lockout zip closure features a specially designed neck flap that provides a comfortable fit to keep water from making its way down the back. Velcro strap below the zipper prevents it from sliding down. Imported. Features: Flexible high performance full wetsuit for full water activity in cooler situations Soft, lightweight 3/2 Aqualite Neoprene construction Four-way stretch neoprene blend for durability and warmth Special, high stretch Aquaflex neoprene in the underarm, side, and lower lumbar panels Anti-fray protection on shoulder panels Strong, durable, and comfortable flatlock seams Mesh Skin finish on chest and back panels - sheds water and wind for warmth Lockout zip closure Great fit thanks to anatomical design suit

 
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Bass Pro Shops XPS Venom Spring Wetsuit for Men08.27.09

mens-wetsuit Bass Pro Shops XPS Venom Spring Wetsuit for Men

Packed with performance features, the XPS Venom Spring Wetsuit keeps you warm without getting in your way. Its soft, lightweight, flexible, ozone resistant Aqualite Neoprene delivers great performance and ease of motion in all water sports activities. This special 2mm four-way stretch blended neoprene delivers better durability and warmth than standard neoprene. The Venom also features Aquaflex high stretch neoprene in the arm, underarm, side, and lumbar panels to provide extra flexibility and performance and anti-fray polyurethane ink protection on the shoulder panels. Durable four-needle flatlock seams deliver strength, comfort, and durability without the rash or discomfort other seams can cause. Mesh Skin finish on the chest and back panels of the Steam increases the neoprene’s strength and abrasion resistance, as well as shedding water and the wind better for a warmer suit. Anatomically designed for an all-important superior fit. Lockout zip closure features a specially designed neck flap that provides a comfortable fit to keep water from making its way down the back. Velcro strap below the zipper prevents it from sliding down. Imported. Features: Flexible high performance spring wetsuit Soft, lightweight Aqualite Neoprene construction Four-way stretch neoprene blend for durability and warmth Special, high stretch Aquaflex neoprene in the arm, underarm, side, and lumbar panels Anti-fray protection on shoulder panels Strong, durable, and comfortable flatlock seams Mesh Skin finish on chest and back panels - sheds water and wind for warmth Lockout zip closure Great fit thanks to anatomical design suit

 
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Bass Pro Shops XPS Venom Spring Wetsuit for Men08.27.09

mens-wetsuit Bass Pro Shops XPS Venom Spring Wetsuit for Men

Packed with performance features, the XPS Venom Spring Wetsuit keeps you warm without getting in your way. Its soft, lightweight, flexible, ozone resistant Aqualite Neoprene delivers great performance and ease of motion in all water sports activities. This special 2mm four-way stretch blended neoprene delivers better durability and warmth than standard neoprene. The Venom also features Aquaflex high stretch neoprene in the arm, underarm, side, and lumbar panels to provide extra flexibility and performance and anti-fray polyurethane ink protection on the shoulder panels. Durable four-needle flatlock seams deliver strength, comfort, and durability without the rash or discomfort other seams can cause. Mesh Skin finish on the chest and back panels of the Steam increases the neoprene’s strength and abrasion resistance, as well as shedding water and the wind better for a warmer suit. Anatomically designed for an all-important superior fit. Lockout zip closure features a specially designed neck flap that provides a comfortable fit to keep water from making its way down the back. Velcro strap below the zipper prevents it from sliding down. Imported. Features: Flexible high performance spring wetsuit Soft, lightweight Aqualite Neoprene construction Four-way stretch neoprene blend for durability and warmth Special, high stretch Aquaflex neoprene in the arm, underarm, side, and lumbar panels Anti-fray protection on shoulder panels Strong, durable, and comfortable flatlock seams Mesh Skin finish on chest and back panels - sheds water and wind for warmth Lockout zip closure Great fit thanks to anatomical design suit

 
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