What Should I Wear Under My Wetsuit?

Wetsuits are essential for cold water activities if you’re planning on spending a long time exposed to the elements. Surfing, swimming, kayaking, SUPing, kiting… the list of watersports that require a wetsuit is extensive. A wetsuit provides insulation against the cold, allowing you to get out there for longer and stay warm. They can also aid in buoyancy and protect you from the sun’s rays.

Built from eco-conscious Yulex®, our wetsuits never compromise on flexibility or movement, regardless of thickness. Tried and tested by our team at Wheal Kitty, our high-quality wetsuits ensure maximum performance and comfort. We understand that a quality wetsuit is an investment, and ours are made to last. If you’re unsure of the style you’d like to commit to you can try the Finisterre Wetsuit Rental programme, the first initiative globally to make Yulex® wetsuits accessible to more sea goers.

For comfort when taking part in activities, many men choose to wear tight fitting swim shorts under their wetsuit. This can minimise any chafing or irritation, and also makes changing easier. It’s important to be aware that baggy or bulky swim shorts aren’t ideal under wetsuits, as they can be uncomfortable.

If you’re looking for swim shorts to wear under a wetsuit, check out our Aonyx Swim Trunk. Made from Econyl®, an innovative fabric containing recycled ocean waste plastics, these premium performance trunks are highly resistant to chlorine, salt water and sun cream/oil damage, and feature a fitted style with a hidden drawcord for extra security.

A well-fitting swimsuit is a great choice for women looking to wear a full-coverage piece under a wetsuit. Benefits include ensuring comfort, preventing skin irritation and providing additional warmth. Many of the women on our team wear a swimsuit under their wetsuit as it makes changing easier, plus allows you to confidently walk back and forth to the shoreline with the top half of your wetsuit folded down.

When choosing to wear a swimsuit under your wetsuit, it’s integral to choose something well fitting and comfortable. Avoid swimsuits with ties or buckles as any additional features can dig in when compressed under a wetsuit. Check out our Econyl® Women's Swimsuits for a range of more sustainable, stylish and functional options.

Some women prefer wearing a bikini under their wetsuit for ease of movement and flexibility. Like swimsuits, this gives you more coverage when wearing your wetsuit half down on hot days before or after getting in the water. You can also opt to wear just the top or bottoms, allowing you to customise your kit depending on your needs.

From low coverage to high waisted swim pants, our mix and match sets are designed to offer support and comfort to water women. Explore the Finisterre Women's Bikinis which offer a variety of styles made from eco-conscious Econyl®.

Another popular choice for adding comfort, coverage and a thin layer of warmth, rash vests are widely worn under wetsuits. A rash vest can stop any rashes occurring through chafing.

Although we don’t make a wetsuit specific rash vest, the Women's Aurora Long Sleeve Rash Vest is designed for full coverage, comfort and protection. Featuring a print by artist Josephine Walker, inspired by Cornish folklore, this swim top is fitted for activity and can be paired with bikini bottoms underneath a wetsuit if desired.

Lots of people opt to wear nothing at all under their wetsuit! This can be for multiple reasons; reducing bulk, increased freedom of movement, speed of changing or purely personal preference. However, it may not be as comfortable for everyone.

Ultimately, what you wear under your wetsuit is your choice. Whether you choose swim shorts, a swimsuit, a bikini, a rash vest, or nothing at all, the goal is optimum comfort, ease of movement and total confidence when in the water. If you’re unsure, try out some options before settling on what suits you best.