Wetsuits

Why a Wetsuit Is Essential Gear for Watersports

Whether you're blasting across a lake on a personal watercraft, cutting wakes behind a boat, or paddling out on a SUP, a quality wetsuit is one of the most important pieces of gear you can own. Wetsuits do far more than keep you warm — they provide a protective second skin against abrasions, sun exposure, and impact during unexpected falls. For serious riders, a well-fitted suit is as non-negotiable as a life vest.

At the heart of every wetsuit is neoprene, a flexible synthetic rubber that works by trapping a thin layer of water against your skin. Your body warms that water, creating an insulating barrier that prevents excessive heat loss. Neoprene thickness — typically measured in millimeters and expressed as a ratio like 3/2 or 4/3 — determines how warm the suit will keep you in different water temperatures. Thicker suits are suited for colder water, while thinner styles offer maximum mobility in warmer conditions.

What to Look for When Shopping Wetsuits

• Thickness: The first number in a wetsuit's thickness rating refers to the chest panel; the second to the arms and legs. A 3/2mm suit balances warmth and flexibility for most three-season riders.
• Fit: A wetsuit should feel snug without bunching in the limbs or sagging at the back. An improper fit lets water flush through, dramatically reducing warmth and comfort.
• Seam Construction: Flatlock stitching is durable and common in warmer-weather suits, while glued and blindstitched seams offer better water resistance in colder conditions.
• Style: Full suits (steamers) cover the entire body, while shorties and long johns offer freedom of movement for warmer water or high-intensity activities.
• Activity: PWC and jet ski riders benefit from reinforced panels and impact protection, while wakeboarders and water skiers may prioritize flexibility and a streamlined fit.

Top Wetsuit Brands

Slippery Wetsuits is one of the most respected names in personal watercraft riding gear. Founded in 1989, Slippery has spent decades developing wetsuits and PFDs specifically engineered for the demands of PWC riding. Their lineup — including the popular Breaker Pro and Array Neo Vest — is celebrated for its combination of mobility, comfort, and durability. Slippery employs elastic neoprene construction for maximum range of motion, making their suits a go-to for both competitive jet ski racers and weekend riders alike.

Jobe Sports brings a broad, family-friendly perspective to watersports wetsuits. Founded in 1974, Jobe has grown into a leading global watersports brand with a lineup spanning everything from full steamers to shorties. Their suits feature limestone-based neoprene — which is lighter, more flexible, and more durable than traditional petroleum-based neoprene — as well as ergonomic panel construction designed to maximize freedom of movement on the water. Jobe's range covers men, women, and children, making it easy for the whole family to gear up for a day on the water.

Choosing the Right Wetsuit for Your Ride

Think about the water temperatures you typically ride in, your activity level, and how long you spend on the water. A casual warm-weather lake day calls for something very different than an early-spring PWC session in open water. When in doubt, size up on warmth — it's always easier to unzip a suit than to warm up after getting cold. Browse our full selection of wetsuits from trusted brands to find the perfect fit for your next adventure.