How to choose the right wetsuit (Part 1)
The first selection criterion when choosing a surfing wetsuit is the water temperature. Water temperature varies according to the location and the time of the year. Systematically make sure that the water temperature at your spot corresponds to the recommended temperature range: Warm water above 20°C.
Temperate water between 17°C and 22°C. Cold water between 12°C and 17°C. Very cold water between 7°C and 12°C. Visit the site seatemperature.org to find out the temperature of your spot.
How to choose the right wetsuit (Part 2)
The 2nd criterion to take into account is the length of your sessions. If your sessions last less than an hour, the 100 models will be suitable. For up to 2 hours, opt for the 500 models and for up to 3 hours, the 900 models.
Compared to the 100 models, the 500 models will be warmer (and more watertight) and more efficient at reducing fatigue (more freedom of movement) and irritation. The same is true for the 900 models compared with the 500 models.
NOTE: the 900 models are easier to put on.
Warmth and wind
The minimum water temperature recommended for the use of this Neoprene top is 21°C. Max. session length: up to 3 hours.
This top is entirely made of neoprene to provide warmth even in windy conditions.
Neoprene: how does it work?
By trapping a thin layer of water around the body, the top works on two fronts:
1- The trapped water gradually warms up
2- The transfer of heat is reduced
The top and the film of water thus form a layer which provides thermal comfort.
Materials
The Top 900 Olaian is made from 100% Neoprene to guarantee improved comfort during use.
The neoprene is lined with synthetic fabric for increased resistance to wear.
Neoprene thickness: 1.5 mm.
We test and guarantee the quality of our neoprene materials.
Reduced chafing
This neoprene top helps limit rubbing and chafing due to contact with the surfboard or bodyboard. We have added seamless panels under the arms to limit irritation due to paddling movements. Our test protocols confirmed that chafing was significantly reduced during 3-hour sessions.
Support system
The Olaian top has a loop at the navel to attach to boardshorts. This loop secures the top to stop it riding up while you surf and to keep it in place at the back.
Choose the right size
A neoprene top should be a tight fit for the most effective thermal insulation. It is perfectly normal to have the impression it is too tight when trying it on in a fitting room or at home. This discomfort quickly disappears once the top gets wet.
Water sports neoprene top
Our tops are designed to meet the needs of the most demanding surfers. Our design choices also make them compatible with other watersports such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, sea wading or SUP (stand-up paddleboarding).
Behaviour when in the sun
Although this top gives protection from the sun, phenomena such as reflections (from water, sand, etc.), heat, time of day, etc. must be taken into account. Wearing this top does not exempt the wearer from following the relevant advice: wear sunglasses, wear a hat or cap, regularly apply an appropriate sun cream, drink regularly, etc.
Neck
The neck finish has been developed to limit irritations. The application of grease (e.g. Vaseline) in friction areas (neck, underarms) is also recommended if wearing the diving suit for long periods.
Fastening
Our zips and fastenings are laboratory tested in order to ensure an optimal lifespan and good resistance to salt water.
We have put the zip at the back of the wetsuit for more comfort during surf sports (when lying down to paddle).
What is the OLAIAN brand?
OLAIAN, DECATHLON'S SURFING BRAND
Based in Hendaye, in South West France, OLAIAN is Decathlon's surfing brand. In our offices at the water's edge, we’re able to design diving suits and test them same-day in real conditions