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Which wetsuit to choose for kite, wing, or surf? GlissEvolution in Pornichet offers over 190 men's and women's models from ION, Mystic, O'Neill, Rip Curl, Prolimit, Manera, and Sooruz. Try them in-store!
En savoir plusWetsuits and Neoprene: Your Guide to Choosing the Right Gear for Surf, Kitesurf, and Wingfoil
Updated July 2026
A wetsuit is your essential insulating garment, designed to trap a thin layer of water between your skin and the fabric. This layer is then warmed by your body, creating a protective barrier against the cold and wind. The ideal thickness of your wetsuit depends on the water temperature, ranging from a lightweight 2 mm shorty for summer sessions to a robust 6/5 mm steamer for winter. Since 2005, our expert team at GlissEvolution in Pornichet has been dedicated to helping you find the perfect thickness, cut, and brand to match your riding style. Dive into our extensive selection: men's wetsuits, women's wetsuits, wetsuit accessories, rashguards and tops, and poncho.
What wetsuit thickness do you need?
Wetsuit thickness is measured in millimeters (e.g., a 4/3 indicates 4 mm on the torso and 3 mm on the arms and legs). The colder the water, the more thickness you'll need to stay warm. Along the Atlantic Coast, water temperatures can swing from around 8 °C in winter to a balmy 21 °C in summer.
| Thickness | Water Temperature | Season (Atlantic Coast) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 mm (shorty) | Above 20 °C | Summer |
| 3/2 mm | 17 to 20 °C | Summer, mild mid-season |
| 4/3 mm | 12 to 17 °C | Spring, Autumn |
| 5/4 mm | 8 to 12 °C | Winter |
| 6/5 mm + hood | Below 8 °C | Cold Winter |
For riders in Loire-Atlantique, a 4/3 mm wetsuit is your go-to for most of the year, offering the most versatile thickness for regular sessions. For those colder winter months, simply complement it with a 5/4 mm wetsuit.
Front zip, back zip, or zipless?
The back zip, with its rear closure, is a breeze to get into and budget-friendly, making it ideal for beginners, though it may allow a slight flush of water. For enhanced watertightness and comfort, the front zip or chest zip, featuring a closure across the chest, is the industry standard for high-performance wetsuits. For ultimate watertightness and flexibility, the zipless design offers maximum freedom of movement, though it does require a bit more technique to put on.
Essential winter wetsuit accessories
When temperatures drop, your extremities can cool down fast. That's when wetsuit accessories become absolutely essential to keep you warm and comfortable on the water.
| Accessory | Protects | From |
|---|---|---|
| Boots | Feet | Water below 16 °C |
| Gloves or mittens | Hands | Water below 12 °C |
| Hood | Head and neck | Water below 10 °C |
Discover them all in our wetsuit accessories section.
How to choose the right wetsuit size
A properly fitting wetsuit should hug your body without compressing it or forming any creases. The shoulder seams should align with your shoulder bones, the crotch should be snug, and the wrists and ankles should fit tightly to minimize water entry. If you're ever in doubt between two sizes, the safest bet is to try it on in-store; we know the specific cuts of every brand.
Wetsuit Care
Proper care can double the lifespan of your neoprene. After every session, rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt. Then, hang it inside out to dry in the shade on a wide hanger or lay it flat – never in direct sunlight. Avoid washing machines and tumble dryers, as they can damage the foam, and never leave your wetsuit crumpled in a bag. Using a special wetsuit shampoo once or twice a season will eliminate odors, and a little lubricant on the zip will keep it flexible. With good care, a wetsuit can last you three to five seasons.
What Budget Should You Plan For?
For reference in 2026, excluding sale and clearance items:
| Range | Type | Indicative Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | 3/2 mm back zip, perfect for beginners | Approximately 150 to €250 |
| Mid-range wetsuits | Versatile 4/3 mm front zip wetsuit | Approximately 250 to 400 "€" |
| High-end wetsuits | Premium 5/4 mm neoprene wetsuit | Approximately 400 to 650 ",-" "€" |
| Winter wetsuit accessories | Wetsuit boots, gloves, and hood | Approximately 30 to 80 ",-" "€" per item |
The brands we offer
- For kitesurf and wingfoil, ION and Mystic are the benchmarks, offering tailored cuts designed to integrate perfectly with your harness.
- Drawing on their extensive surf expertise, O'Neill and Billabong deliver wetsuits renowned for their comfort and durability.
- For premium options and specialized cold water gear, look to Manera and Prolimit.
- From France, Rip Curl and Sooruz lead the way with quick-drying and eco-responsible neoprene wetsuits.
Clearance and second-hand wetsuits
We regularly feature end-of-series and clearance sales on wetsuits from previous seasons, alongside thoroughly checked second-hand equipment. It's a fantastic way to gear up at a reduced price, both in-store and online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wetsuit?
An insulating suit made of synthetic foam that traps a thin layer of water warmed by your body to protect you from the cold. Its thickness, from 2 to 6 mm, is chosen according to the water temperature.
What thickness for the Atlantic Coast?
A 4/3 mm wetsuit covers most of the year, a 5/4 mm for winter, and a 3/2 mm or a shorty for warm summers.
Front zip, back zip, or zipless?
The back zip is easy to put on and affordable, ideal for beginners. The front zip is more watertight, standard for performance models. The zipless offers maximum watertightness and flexibility.
How to wash and maintain your wetsuit?
Rinse it with fresh water after each session and dry it in the shade, never in the sun or a dryer. A wetsuit shampoo once or twice a season eliminates odors. Avoid the washing machine.
How much does a wetsuit cost?
Around 150 to €250 for entry-level, 250 to €400 for mid-range, and 400 to €650 for high-end. Allow 30 to €80 per accessory for winter.
What accessories for winter?
Boots as soon as the water drops below 16 °C, gloves below 12 °C, and a hood below 10 °C, as your extremities cool down fastest.
How to choose your size?
Your wetsuit should fit snugly without compressing or forming creases. If you're unsure between two sizes, trying it on in-store is the best way to ensure a perfect fit.
Where can you buy a wetsuit in Loire-Atlantique?
Visit GlissEvolution at 2c avenue du Gulfstream in Pornichet (44). You can try on wetsuits and get expert advice from our experienced riders. Call us at 09 62 64 74 77.
Why choose GlissEvolution?
With twenty years of experience serving riders since 2005, we're here to help you find the perfect gear. Visit our Pornichet store to try on wetsuits before you buy and get expert advice on the fit of each brand. Our workshop provides comprehensive after-sales support, including neoprene repairs, new gear, clearance items, and thoroughly inspected second-hand equipment. Plus, enjoy free shipping on all purchases over €100.
Find Us
Visit GlissEvolution at 2c avenue du Gulfstream, 44380 Pornichet (Loire-Atlantique). You can reach us by phone at 09 62 64 74 77. We're open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 7 pm.
