19 Best Wetsuits For Kayaking On Your Next Adventure
I remember my first time kayaking – looking back, I wish I knew where and how to find the best wetsuits for kayaking!
I was wearing a regular sweatshirt and pants. I was confident as they were comfy and let me move freely. Boy, I was wrong!
My regular sweatsuit was drenched and I couldn’t help but feel super uncomfortable.
So, what are wetsuits for kayaking?
They simply mean the official outfit you wear during kayaking. They have the flexibility of a sweat outfit and they don’t get drenched in water.
DISCLOSURE
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Summary Of The Best Wetsuits For Kayaking For Women
Wetsuit | Best For? | Type | Material | Pros |
O’Neill Women’s Reactor 3/2mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit | Kayaking, surfing, diving, water sports | Full Body | Neoprene | Minimal seam placement at paddle zone; Available for men |
Ivation Womens Lycra Full Body Wetsuit | Kayaking in cold temperature | Full Body | Neoprene with nylon/ spandex blend | Long front zipper; Stirrups |
O’Neill Women’s 3/2mm Bahia | Kayaking in warm or cold weather | Full Body | Neoprene | Strategic seamless paddle zones to reduce chafing; Knee pad to extend suit life |
NeoSport Women’s Premium 3mm Jane Wetsuit | Kayaking and diving in cold temperature | Long John | Neoprene | Adjustable collar; Internal key pocket; Thermal knee pads for extra comfort and abrasion resistance |
Cressi Lady Front-Zip Full Wetsuit | Kayaking, diving, and other water sports in cold temperature | Full Body | Neoprene | Front zipper for easy donning |
Bare Evoke 3mm Full Wetsuit | Kayaking and diving in super cold temperature | Full Body | Neoprene | Extra warmth in the bodies core with its soft high-pile fabric; Low-pile fabric in the arms and legs |
Summary Of The Best Wetsuits For Kayaking For Men
Wetsuit | Best For? | Type | Material | Pros |
Henderson 3mm Thermoprene Men’s Back Zip Jumpsuit | Kayaking and other water sports | Full Body | Neoprene | All interior panels have ultra silk lining for ultimate comfort |
O’Neill Mens 5/4mm Epic Full Suit | Kayaking, lake activities, water sports | Full Body | Neoprene | Blind-stitched seams to keep water out and enhances durability |
Sharkskin Mens Chillproof Full Wetsuit | Kayaking, snorkeling | Full Body | Composite | Best worn as a lining under another wetsuit, less buoyant than wetsuit |
NeoSport 7mm Waterman Winter John Wetsuit | Kayaking, wakeboarding, diving | Long John | Neoprene | Comfortable diamond plate knee pads |
Seavenger Navigator 3mm Neoprene Shorty Wetsuit | Snorkeling, Diving, Kayaking | Shorty | Nylon, Neoprene | Flat-lock seams to resist irritation |
Kokatat NeoZip Long John Neoprene Kayak Wetsuit | Kayaking in warm weather | Long John | Neoprene | Comfortable paddle-specific design |
Lavacore Full Men’s Wetsuit | Diving, kayaking | Full Body | Polytherm Tri-Laminate | Buoyant and has SPF30+ sun protection |
NRS 3.0 Farmer John Wetsuit | Kayaking, water sports | Long John | Neoprene | Quick-drying and insulated |
Stohlquist Men’s Rapid John Wetsuit | Kayaking, paddle-boarding | Long John | Neoprene | Blind-stitched and glued seams for comfort and warmth |
Cressi Men’s Front-Zip Full Wetsuit | Snorkeling, swimming, paddling, water sports | Full Body | Neoprene | Adhere to the body like a second skin |
Hevto 3mm Wetsuit | Boating, snorkeling, kayaking in cold temperature | Full Body | Neoprene | Keep warm in cold waters |
Henderson 7mm Men’s Aqua Lock Wetsuit | Kayaking in cold temperature | Full Body | Neoprene | Interlocking openings to prevent water entry at wrists, necks, and ankles |
SUPreme Men’s Blade Paddling Wetsuit | Water sports in cold temperature | Full Body | Neoprene | Narrow front zip entry; Micro fleece interior for warmth |
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The Best Wetsuits 2022 For Kayaking
Best Wetsuits For Kayaking For Women
1) O’Neill Women’s Reactor 3/2mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit
This is one of the best wetsuits for kayaking, paddle sports, lake activities, diving, and surfing. Its ultra-stretch neoprene and back zip allow easy wearing with water-resistant closure.
The O’Neill Women’s Reactor 3/2mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit has material that is flexible, soft, and enhances performance. With its wind-resistant technology, it gives you extra warmth and insulation. This brand also has ladies’ wetsuits in large sizes available. You can check them out here!
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking, surfing, diving, water sports
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
- Zipper: Back zipper
Pros:
- Minimal seam placement at paddle zone
- Maximum mobility and comfort
- Wind resistant
Cons:
- Flat chest size
- Ill-fitting if not sized correctly
2) Ivation Women’s Lycra Full Body Wetsuit
With a nylon/ spandex blend, it is easy to slip into this wetsuit. It has a base layer that protects you from cold temperatures and pests like sea lice and jellyfish.
The Ivation Women’s Lycra Full Body Wetsuit also helps minimize sunburn with its UV protection technology. With the perfect fitting, the best wetsuit for kayaking supports movement underwater and improves motion ranges.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking in cold temperature
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene with nylon/ spandex blend
- Weight: 0.44 pounds
- Zipper: Long front zipper
Pros:
- Long front zipper for easy wearing
- Stirrups to prevent legs from rising
Cons:
- Material is thinner than expected
- Not waterproof
3) O’Neill Women’s 3/2mm Bahia
This wetsuit provides extra protection and warmth. It has a durable outer skin and super-stretch feature which avoids pulls and snags and allows full motion range. As this wetsuit has a double layer, it is perfect for both warm and cool temperatures.
With fused ankles, cuffs, and neck edges, it provides an ergonomic fit that resists flushing at the neck. Hence, your neck won’t get red if the temperature gets too hot.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking in warm or cold weather
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 0.9 pounds
- Zipper: Back zipper
Pros:
- Strategic seamless paddle zones to reduce chafing
- Knee pad to extend suit life
Cons:
- Feels thin to the skin
4) NeoSport Women’s Premium 3mm Jane Wetsuit
These wetsuit pants for kayaking for women should fit you snugly, without being too tight. This wetsuit has a comfortable fit and soft touch.
It has a smooth interior from the flatlock seams and is spot taped at stress points. It also offers you complete flexibility on your arms to kayak and the ability to indulge in other water sports freely.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking and diving in cold temperature
- Type: Long John
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 1.58 pounds
- Zipper: Back zipper
Pros:
- Adjustable collar for comfort and internal key pocket to store items
- Thermal knee pads for extra comfort and abrasion resistance
Cons:
- Small width legs – size carefully
5) Cressi Lady Front-Zip Full Wetsuit
This wetsuit is made of 3mm double-lined high-stretch neoprene that ensures durability and warmth.
The wetsuit keeps water out by its braided seal elastic ultraspan neoprene on the arms and legs. This avoids water from entering the suit and keeps your body dry. The material offers a second-skin finish to ensure ultimate comfort.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking, diving, and other water sports in cold temperature
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 1.65 pounds
- Zipper: Front zipper
Pros:
- Front zipper for easy donning
- Second-skin finish
Cons:
- The suit runs small, so it may be worth it to consider sizing up
6) Bare Evoke 3mm Full Wetsuit
This warm wetsuit for kayaking helps enhance performance and circulation. The internal zipper flap sealing resists water from entering. Additionally, it has seamless underarms for ultimate flexibility and comfort. More importantly, the Bare Evoke 3mm Full Wetsuit is the warmest women’s wetsuit on the market!
Interesting fact: this wetsuit is designed by BARE’s all-female design team.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking and diving in super cold temperature
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 2.55 pounds
- Zipper: Front zipper
Pros:
- Extra warmth at the core with soft high-pile fabric
- Low-pile fabric in the arms and legs
Cons:
- Tight wrist and ankle openings and so it may look a little puffy
- You may need to size up if you’re curvy
Best Wetsuits For Kayaking For Men
1) Henderson 3mm Thermoprene Men’s Back Zip Jumpsuit
This wetsuit for kayaking keeps water out by its minimized seams and large neoprene panel. The wetsuit is double glued and double sewn for durability, longevity, and performance in challenging conditions. If you like an adjustable collar, this wetsuit comes with a velcro-dock collar to improve flexibility and comfort.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking and other water sports
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 4.25 pounds
- Zipper: Back zipper
Pros:
- Offers “melt in your hand” finish to the skin
- All interior panels have ultra silk lining for ultimate comfort
Cons:
- None so far!
2) O’Neill Mens 5/4mm Epic Full Suit
With a water-tight seal, this wetsuit for kayaking offers you easy entry and exit. This means, you can put this on without extra hands! This wetsuit is durable with its triple glued and has blind-stitched seams.
The O’Neill Mens 5/4mm Epic Full Suit also resists wind and provides added insulation and protects from cold temperatures.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking, lake activities, water sports
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: –
- Zipper: Back zipper
Pros:
- Blind-stitched seams to keep water out and enhance durability
- Suitable for both cold and warm water temperatures
Cons:
- Neck may be too small
- Quite a fit tight so you may want to consider sizing up
3) Sharkskin Men’s Chillproof Full Wetsuit
This wetsuit for kayaking is designed to provide full-body protection from marine stingers, cold, and UV rays. You can wear this as a base layer in the cold or on its own in warmer waters. For added comfort, this wetsuit resists odor, itchiness, and it is antimicrobial.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking, snorkeling
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Composite
- Weight: 1.32 pounds
- Zipper: Back zipper
Pros:
- Best worn as a lining under another wetsuit as it is less buoyant than a wetsuit
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Quite tight – consider sizing up a bit
4) NeoSport 7mm Waterman Winter John Wetsuit
The NeoSport 7mm Waterman Winter John Wetsuit has a velcro closure and a snug fit. It is designed with premium neoprene for a soft and comfortable fit. It is also spot taped at stress points and has flatlock seams for added comfort and durability. In terms of flexibility, it has lycra-trimmed ankle and wrist seals.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking, wakeboarding, diving
- Type: Long John
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 3 pounds
- Zipper: Back zipper
Pros:
- Comfortable diamond plate knee pads
Cons:
- Not for plus-sized men
5) Seavenger Navigator 3mm Neoprene Shorty Wetsuit
The Seavenger Navigator 3mm Neoprene Shorty Wetsuit is made of Nylon II neoprene material with a second skin finishing. The armpit panels are super stretchy for ease of mobility. It also resists irritation with its flatlock stitching and anti-abrasion shoulder pads.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Snorkeling, Diving, Kayaking
- Type: Shorty
- Material: Nylon, Neoprene
- Weight: 1.6 pounds
- Zipper: Back zipper
Pros:
- Flat-lock seams to resist irritation
Cons:
- Smaller sizing – consider sizing up
- The zipper may be too short
6) Kokatat NeoZip Long John Neoprene Kayak Wetsuit
The Kokatat NeoZip Long John Neoprene Kayak Wetsuit has a full-length flap front zipper for ease of entry. It has non-skid ankles and seamless armholes for added flexibility. The ankles are unhemmed for extra stretch features and it is specifically designed for paddling. Additionally, it has color-coded shoulder panels by size.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking in warm weather
- Type: Long John
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: –
- Zipper: Front zipper
Pros:
- Comfortable paddle-specific design
Cons:
- Not suitable for deep water paddling
7) Lavacore Full Men’s Wetsuit
If you love jumping in the water after kayaking, the Lavacore Full Men’s Wetsuit for kayaking is naturally buoyant, so you will float in the water. This wetsuit is also perfect for those with neoprene allergies!
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Diving, kayaking
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Polytherm Tri-Laminate
- Weight: 1.7 pounds
- Zipper: Back zipper
Pros:
- Buoyant and has SPF30+ sun protection
- Easy to pack
Cons:
- Sizing chart may be a bit off so ensure you get your measurements correct before making your purchase!
8) NRS 3.0 Farmer John Wetsuit
The NRS 3.0 Farmer John Wetsuit has a titanium laminate adhesive that reflects heat back to your body, giving you warmth while paddling or kayaking.
With a durable YKK zipper, it has a full-zip entry and reinforced knees, and a seat designed with Eco SupraTex. So, you will have no problem donning this wetsuit on your own!
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking, water sports
- Type: Long John
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: –
- Zipper: Front zipper
Pros:
- Quick-drying and insulated
- Highly stretched panels on shoulders and behind the knees for added flexibility
Cons:
- None so far!
9) Stohlquist Men’s Rapid John Wetsuit
The Stohlquist Men’s Rapid John Wetsuit for kayaking has extra-wide armholes for extra mobility. It is also integrated with SupraTex seat and knees and to resist abrasion and more durability.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking, paddle-boarding
- Type: Long John
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 0.75 pounds
- Zipper: Front zipper
Pros:
- Blind-stitched and glued seams for comfort and warmth
- Available relief zipper
Cons:
- None so far!
10) Cressi Men’s Front-Zip Full Wetsuit
The Cressi Men’s Front-Zip Full Wetsuit ensures absolute movement freedom. Made of YKK metal, the front zipper allows easy and quick doffing and donning.
The ultra span neoprene also ensures durability and warmth. The knees and shins are protected to resist scratches.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Snorkeling, swimming, paddling, water sports
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 1.75 pounds
- Zipper: Front zipper
Pros:
- Adhere to the body like a second skin
- Flex areas with thinner shoulders and knees for ultimate flexibility
Cons:
- Difficult to get in and off by yourself
11) Hevto 3mm Wetsuit
Do you need a wetsuit that creates heat for your body through friction while kayaking? The Hevto 3mm Wetsuit got you covered. The material is designed to resist wind and protect you against jellyfish and reefs. This wetsuit is comfortable as it offers flexibility and comfort.
However, at first, you will feel uncomfortable since the suit will be a bit tight. After a few moments, the suit will comfortably snug you with its flexible characteristic.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Boating, snorkeling, kayaking in cold temperature
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 1.74 pounds
- Zipper: Back zipper
Pros:
- Keeps you warm in cold water
- Helps you float more easily
Cons:
- Too constrictive around the neck
- Super thin arms and legs
12) Henderson 7mm Men’s Aqua Lock Wetsuit
The Henderson 7mm Men’s Aqua Lock Wetsuit offers interlocking neck, wrist, and ankle openings lined with a golden microfleece. It dries quickly, so no worries if you need to get in contact with a lot of water. With durable, soft, and flexible knee pads, you will find yourself comfortable in this suit while kayaking.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Kayaking in cold temperature
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Zipper: Rear zipper
Pros:
- Interlocking openings to prevent water entry at wrists, neck, and ankles
- Duratex knee pads for ultimate warmth
Cons:
- None so far!
13) SUPreme Men’s Blade Paddling Wetsuit
For extra comfort and mobility, this wetsuit has a 100% ultimate soft quantum foam neoprene construction (very soft material) with flatlock construction that is durable and prevents chafing.
The wetsuit is also quick drying and wind-resistant. It is also constructed with Duratex 4-way stretch knee pads and an exclusive hat.
Product Summary:
- Suitable for: Water sports in cold temperature
- Type: Full Body
- Material: Neoprene
- Weight: 2.45 pounds
- Zipper: Front zipper
Pros:
- Narrow front zip entry
- Microfleece interior for warmth
Cons:
- The glue might wear off and separate the construction
Styles Of Wetsuits For Kayaking
There are many different styles of wetsuits for kayaking. The styles depend on your personal preferences. Here’s the list:
Full Kayaking Wetsuit
A full kayaking wetsuit has long sleeves and long legs. It covers your entire body and is perfect for full-body protection. This style should help you avoid mosquito or bug bites and protect you from UV rays so your skin won’t get burned.
Shorty Wetsuit
A shorty wetsuit is the complete opposite of a full wetsuit. It has short sleeves and short legs. This style is perfect if you need more flexibility on your elbows or knees.
Short John
A short john wetsuit provides more flexibility as it is sleeveless and has short legs, ending at mid-thigh. It is also best worn in water with a temperature of more than 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
Long John
A long john wetsuit, is a sleeveless wetsuit with long legs. It provides you with flexibility and protection.
Now you know the styles, let’s learn more about the best wetsuits for kayaking. But before that, you should also learn the kayak wetsuit temperature guide, so that you will pick ones that are suitable for your next kayaking adventure.
Features Of Best Wetsuits For Kayaking
Material
The best material for a wetsuit for kayaking is definitely neoprene. It is stretchy and flexible and mostly does not absorb water. This is important since you don’t want water absorbed to hold you back from enjoying your kayaking moments. I know I don’t!
Sizing
Almost all wetsuits are made smaller than the actual body size, This is because they are made to fit to resist wind and to give you that second-skin finishing. Hence, be careful and study the sizing charts carefully.
Fit
Some wetsuits have ill-fitting features, like weird openings of the neck, armholes, and leg holes. Some are even very constrictive. Just be careful and make sure you ask the customer service first before deciding to purchase.
Zips and others
For added comfort and user experience, other features included are knee pads, shoulder pads for when you need to wear your backpack, and stirrups to ensure the legs don’t go up. These features depend on one’s preferences.
Even the zipper and the zip placing depend on your unique preferences. If you feel like a front zipper is easier, then go for it. You can also opt for a back zipper if you don’t water to pierce through the front.
How Do Wetsuits Work
Wetsuits are worn for water activities to help you resist wind to avoid the unnecessary burden, for instance, the weight of the absorbed water if you’re wearing regular clothing.
Some wetsuits also offer buoyancy and ease of movement. Buoyancy allows you ease when floating on the water. Since the wetsuit fits snugly to your body, it helps reduce wind resistance while kayaking, offering you a smooth experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Choose A Wetsuit Size?
Here are some tips in choosing a wetsuit size:
- Measure your height and chest areas as they are important.
- Gently snuggling the tape, measure your chest at the widest point possible.
- It is totally fine for a wetsuit to be longer than your usual size.
- If you’re stuck between 2 sizes, pick the larger one.
Do I Wear Anything Under A Wetsuit?
It is definitely fine and all right to not wear anything under your wetsuit. Besides, it all depends on your own preferences. However, do bear in mind that wearing a wetsuit could cause chafing. So if you feel uncomfortable wearing nothing under a wetsuit, consider wearing a swimsuit for added comfort.
How Tight Should A Wetsuit Be?
A wetsuit should generally fit you snugly, but not too tight. Ensure that you have room for a sufficient range of motion, like a second skin. Full-length sleeves should fit at the wrist bone and just above the ankle bone on the legs. Also, there must be no rolls of neoprene, pockets, or gaps.
Conclusion
Based on the information shared above, I hope you have found yourself the best wetsuits for kayaking. Make sure you know well which type of wetsuit should best fit you, either full-body, long john, shorty, or short john. Remember, they should all depend on where you’re kayaking and if you need extra flexibility.
You should also consider the material, sizing, fit, zipper, and other features. Hopefully, you have already decided on the best wetsuit for your kayaking adventure!
Happy shopping!