Men's shorty wetsuit for summer sessions
A shorty wetsuit is a neoprene suit with short sleeves and short legs that keeps the upper body warm while the arms and legs remain free for maximum freedom of movement. For men this is the most popular wetsuit style at water temperatures of 18 degrees Celsius and above, from SUP tours on inland lakes to kitesurfing along the coast in summer. The range includes models from Prolimit, JOBE and Magic Marine in thicknesses from 2/2 mm to 3/2 mm, with front zip, back zip and freezip closure.
Which shorty type suits which water temperature?
| Type | Thickness | Water temperature | Season | Best discipline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2mm shorty | 2/2 mm | 21°C and above | Midsummer | SUP, kayak, summer kitesurf |
| 3mm shorty | 3/2 mm | 18-22°C | Early summer, late summer | Water skiing, wakeboard, surfing |
| 2/2 Springsuit (long leg) | 2/2 mm | 19-23°C | Summer | Windsurf, kitesurf with extra UV protection |
| Over-knee / steamer | 3/2 mm | 16-20°C | Spring/autumn transition | Kitesurf, wingfoil, autumn surfing |
The rule of thumb: choose 2mm when water temperatures exceed 21 degrees and you are moving actively. Choose 3/2 mm for longer sessions or if you get cold quickly. A springsuit with a long leg provides extra UV protection when spending a lot of time in the sun.
Front zip, back zip or freezip?
The zipper construction determines both the fit and the amount of water that enters. A back zip sits in the back and is the easiest to put on and take off. A front zip or chest zip lets in less water and gives more freedom of movement around the shoulders, which makes a measurable difference in intensive disciplines. The Prolimit Freezip is a proprietary closure without a conventional zip: the neoprene flap closes magnetically and has the lowest water ingress of all types. For more options check the full men's wetsuit collection which also includes fullsuits.
Fit and sizing
A shorty wetsuit needs to fit snugly without pinching at the armpits and groin. Too much slack pumps cold water between the neoprene and skin, negating the warmth effect. Use chest and hip circumference as your guide; consult the size charts per brand as Prolimit and JOBE use different baselines. Not sure about your size? The shop in Joure stocks the shorty range for you to try on.
Frequently asked questions about men's shorty wetsuits
When should you choose a shorty wetsuit instead of a fullsuit?
A shorty wetsuit is the right choice when water temperature is above 18 degrees Celsius and you are moving actively during the session. Because arms and legs are uncovered, you shed more body heat, but you barely notice this in warm conditions. For windsurf, SUP or kitesurf in summer, a shorty is the standard choice. A fullsuit suits better at water temperatures below 18 degrees or for longer sessions without sunlight, such as early mornings on the lake or late autumn days at the coast. If in doubt, pick the 3/2 mm shorty for the bulk of the Dutch summer season, which runs from May to September with water temperatures ranging from 16 to 24 degrees.
Which shorty material is most comfortable for long sessions?
Prolimit uses a Superstretch neoprene in higher models like the ACE and Mercury that stretches in all directions without resistance during arm strokes or squatting. JOBE uses Yamamoto neoprene in the Perth line, a Japanese material known for its high density and good insulation values. For long sessions with a lot of rotational movement, a neoprene with a high stretch rating is the best choice; it reduces shoulder fatigue. Cheaper shorties with less stretchy material can start feeling uncomfortable at the armpits after just an hour. The difference only becomes apparent on the water, not in the shop.
How does the fit of a shorty differ from a fullsuit?
A shorty ends at the thighs and the top of the upper arm. This removes tension across the knees and elbows, increasing freedom of movement. A fullsuit has extra material panels along the limbs that in cheaper models can pull tighter during movement. Shorties require a more precise fit at the closures on the thighs and upper arms: too loose gives water ingress, too tight causes pinching during exertion. Measure chest circumference, waist circumference and height before choosing a size.
Can I combine a shorty with a neoprene top in autumn?
Yes, a shorty combined with a neoprene top or rash vest extends the usable season into September and October. The neoprene top covers the arms and adds 1 to 2 mm of extra insulation to the upper body. Prolimit offers specific tops matched in thickness to the shorty line. Note that loose combinations are less watertight than a fullsuit, as the transition between top and shorty always lets some water through. For surfers and kitesurfers continuing into autumn, a 4/3 mm fullsuit is ultimately more comfortable than combining. For transition options check the wetsuit hub with all thicknesses.
In stock? Order before 17:00 and it ships the same day. Otherwise, as soon as possible. Not sure? Our specialists in Joure are happy to help.
