Winter in San Diego may be milder than other parts of the country, but when it comes to surfing, the cooler water temperatures make it crucial to gear up properly. While the waves might be pumping, and the crowds smaller, staying warm is key to enjoying your winter surf sessions. At San Diego Surf School, we always recommend a thicker wetsuit for anyone hitting the waves during the colder months. Here’s why a thicker wetsuit is a must for winter surfing in San Diego and how it can enhance your San Diego surfing experience.
1. Cold Water Temperatures
San Diego may be known for its sunny weather, but winter water temperatures can drop to the low 50s (°F), which can quickly lead to discomfort or even hypothermia if you’re not properly insulated. The solution? A thicker wetsuit—typically 4/3mm to 5/4mm thickness for winter surfing conditions. These wetsuits are designed to trap body heat while still providing flexibility, allowing you to surf for longer without feeling the chill.
At San Diego Surf School, we ensure that our students are prepared for these cooler waters during their San Diego surf lessons by recommending the right wetsuit thickness based on the time of year and conditions.
2. Enhanced Comfort and Flexibility
One of the common concerns surfers have about thicker wetsuits is the potential loss of flexibility. Fortunately, modern wetsuit technology has come a long way, and today’s thicker wetsuits are both warm and flexible. The neoprene material used in wetsuits is specifically designed to move with your body, ensuring that you still have the range of motion needed to paddle, duck dive, and pop up with ease.
During San Diego surf lessons, we often see that students in thicker wetsuits tend to be more comfortable in the water, allowing them to focus on learning and improving their skills instead of worrying about the cold.
3. Extended Surf Sessions
Winter waves in San Diego can be some of the best of the year. The water is less crowded, and the surf is often more consistent. But to take full advantage of these conditions, you need to stay in the water longer. A thicker wetsuit helps maintain your core body temperature, allowing you to extend your surf sessions without feeling fatigued from the cold.
At San Diego Surf School, we’ve seen firsthand how a thicker wetsuit can improve both the enjoyment and performance of our students during San Diego surfing sessions. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, staying warm means you can maximize your time in the water.
4. Protection from Wind Chill
Winter in San Diego can also bring windy conditions. Even when the sun is shining, a cold breeze can cut through a thinner wetsuit, making you feel colder faster. Thicker wetsuits offer additional protection from wind chill, especially when paired with wetsuit accessories like gloves, booties, and hoods.
For those considering San Diego surf lessons during the winter, we always recommend a thicker wetsuit to keep both the wind and water at bay, ensuring that you’re comfortable and ready to take on those winter swells.
5. Stay Safe and Enjoy the Waves
Surfing in winter presents its own set of challenges, and being cold shouldn’t be one of them. A thicker wetsuit provides the necessary insulation to keep you safe from the risks of cold-water exposure. Additionally, when you’re warm and comfortable, your focus shifts to improving your technique and enjoying the session.
At San Diego Surf School, we prioritize our students’ safety and comfort during every lesson. Whether you’re surfing for the first time or looking to advance your skills, a thicker wetsuit is essential for staying safe and making the most of your time in the water.
Winter surfing in San Diego offers great conditions, but preparation is key to ensuring an enjoyable experience. A thicker wetsuit is your best defense against cold water and wind chill, enabling you to surf longer and stay comfortable. If you’re ready to catch winter waves, let San Diego Surf School guide you through the process, from picking the right wetsuit to perfecting your surfing skills.