Women's shorty wetsuit for summer watersports
A shorty wetsuit is a neoprene suit with short sleeves and short legs that keeps your torso warm while your arms and legs move freely. For women who want to surf, SUP or kitesurf in summer, a shorty is the ideal middle ground: more protection than a swimsuit alone, but without the heat of a full suit. Our range includes shorty wetsuits from Prolimit, JOBE and Mystic in thicknesses of 2 to 3 mm, including springsuit variants with long legs and short arms.
Looking for a full neoprene suit for cooler months? Check out women's wetsuits or the broad wetsuit overview for all thicknesses and seasons.
Which shorty suits which water temperature?
| Type | Thickness | Water temp | Season NL | Activity | Advantage over fullsuit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shorty | 2/2 mm | 20°C and warmer | July/August | SUP, swimming, holiday | Maximum freedom of movement |
| Shorty | 3/2 mm | 17-21°C | June to September | Surfing, kitesurfing, SUP | Warmer core, still airy |
| Springsuit (L/S) | 3/2 mm | 16-20°C | May and September/October | Kitesurfing, windsurfing | Long sleeve for wind chill, short leg |
| Swimsuit / rashguard | 2/2 mm | 22°C and warmer | Summer holiday | Swimming, snorkelling | UV protection, minimal resistance |
Rule of thumb: for Dutch summers (water 17-20°C) a 3/2 mm shorty is the best choice. On warm holidays in the Mediterranean or tropical destinations, a 2/2 mm or rashguard swimsuit is enough.
Frequently asked questions about women's shorty wetsuits
When should you choose a shorty instead of a fullsuit?
A shorty is the right choice when the water is warm enough to leave your arms and legs uncovered, generally above 17-18°C. The main advantage is that your shoulders and knees are completely free, which is great for paddling, SUP and surfing where your arm position constantly changes. A fullsuit provides more warmth but can cause overheating at higher water temperatures, leading to faster fatigue. In the Netherlands, a shorty is realistic from late May to mid-September. Outside that window the water gets too cold for short sleeves and legs, and a 4/3 mm fullsuit is the better option. When in doubt: choose the shorty for summer and keep a fullsuit for early and late sessions.
What shorty thickness is right for summer?
The North Sea and IJsselmeer average 18-21°C in July and August. For those temperatures, a 3/2 mm shorty is the most versatile choice: the 3 mm neoprene on chest and back keeps your core warm enough for longer sessions, while the 2 mm at the bottom provides enough stretch. A 2/2 mm shorty is ideal for more southerly destinations or heatwaves where the water exceeds 22°C. The Prolimit Fire range in 2/2 and 3/2 mm with Freezip or back zip covers both scenarios. Pay attention to the zip: a front zip or V-zip lets in less water than a traditional back zip, which noticeably improves warmth when there's a breeze on the water.
How does a women's shorty differ from a men's shorty?
A women's shorty is specifically patterned for a female body: narrower shoulders, a narrower upper body and a wider hip area create a better fit than a unisex or men's model. A poorly fitting wetsuit lets water in, loses heat and sits uncomfortably under the arms. Prolimit produces virtually all their Fire and Flare shorties in a dedicated women's pattern, including colour schemes tailored to women's preferences. JOBE's Sofia range follows the same principle. A well-fitting women's shorty sits snugly but doesn't create pressure points at the neck or groin area.
Can you wear a shorty over a bikini?
Yes, you can. Many women wear a bikini under their shorty, especially in warm summer weather. Keep in mind that extra layers affect the wetsuit's fit: straps and clasps can create pressure points and disrupt insulation if they trap air bubbles. Ideally choose a bikini with flat seams and thin straps, or a one-piece swimsuit for the most seamless fit. Prolimit also offers swimsuit variants (like the Fire Swimsuit 2/2 mm) that are worn as a standalone garment and combine the properties of a rashguard and bikini. That solution has the advantage of minimal resistance, good UV protection and a snug fit without constricting straps.
In stock? Otherwise, as soon as possible. Not sure? Our specialists are happy to help.
