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: Water warmer than 21°C. Water between 17 and 22°C. Water between 12 and 17°C. Water between 7 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 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.

Choose the right size

To make the most of the features of your wetsuit, it is necessary to choose the correct size. A surfing wetsuit should be a very tight fit and there should be no visible folds. When dry, it is perfectly normal to feel like it is too tight, this discomfort disappears as soon as the wetsuit gets wet. If you pick a wetsuit that is too big, folds will form and may cause irritation.

Materials

This OLAIAN 500 4/3 mm wetsuit is made from genuine neoprene for guaranteed optimal comfort during use.

The neoprene is lined with synthetic fabric for increased resistance to wear.

Neoprene thickness: 4mm and 3 mm.

The neoprene is made from an elastomer foam with insulating properties.

We test and guarantee the quality of our neoprene materials.

Neck

The neck finish has been developed to limit irritations. According to the sensitivity of the wearer, a UV top can be worn under the wetsuit to reduce the risk of irritation. The application of grease (e.g. Vaseline) in friction areas (neck, underarms) is also recommended if wearing the diving suit for long periods.Make sure the flap is always inside the wetsuit to limit the risk of irritation with the zip and the neck.

Fastening

Our zip and fastenings are laboratory-tested to ensure good levels of resistance in salt water. We have put the zip at the back of the wetsuit for more comfort during surf sports (when lying down to paddle).In addition, the 4/3 500 has a water barrier under the back zip to limit water entry!

Watertight assembly

The seams are stitched and glued for optimal waterproofing. The seams are blind-stitched, which means the thread does not pass through the entire thickness of the neoprene and so prevents water from getting through.The absence of threads on the inside avoids irritation and chafing.Patches for comfort and reinforcement are strategically placed on the inside in sensitive areas.

Key pocket

There is a key pocket under the zip flap.

Anti-chafing design

We designed this product with seamless panels under the arms to limit irritation due to the repetitive paddling movements associated with surf sports.

Stay warm for longer thanks to our thermal accessories! Each temperature range has its own outfit...

When we are in the water, we lose more than half of our body heat through our extremities (feet, hands, head). Consequently, here are the recommended accessories:

- In water (>17°C) => Low neoprene shoes.

- In water (12 - 17°C): High booties (boots) and gloves.

- In water (7 - 12°C): High booties (boots), gloves, hood and hooded top.

Multi-water sports wetsuits

Our wetsuits 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 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