Summer’s in full swing and we couldn’t be happier. So, with rising water temperatures rising, it’s time to invest in something a little lighter and brighter for those long summer months ahead.

This season there are so many vibrant colours and patterns, and feminine prints and cuts, all without compromising the technical aspects you expect from a high-end summer wetsuit. Every year the surf brands up their wetsuit game, and this season is no exception; these suits will keep you warm and comfortable in the water and are flexible enough for surfing all day or going for a leisurely SUP after work.

Here’s what’s on offer this summer.

There are loads of amazing new summer suits out there, boasting increased flexibility, warmth and a funky style! Here are a few things to consider when looking to buy:

Snug as a bug.

Spare rolls of neoprene (unless you’re a fast-growing grom) aren’t what you’re looking for in warm suit, so check key areas for a good fit: Look at your lower back, under arms, neck fastening and behind your knees for any baggy areas that shouldn’t be there. Try different sizes in different styles and brands, as every suit is slightly different and some will fit better than others.

Thick or thin?

For the summer months look for a 3/2mm – this means 3mm of neoprene on the torso (to keep you warm) and 2mm on your arms and legs (for extra flexibility). 5/4/3mm are designed for winter and 4/3mm are generally for spring – but decide how cold you get, what water temperature you will be in and how flexible you want your suit to be, before selecting the neoprene thickness to suit you.

Fastening.

Do you prefer a back zip or a chest zip? The overall flexibility is better with a chest zip, but if it doesn’t fit perfectly around your neck and over your shoulders you will get a good flush from time to time. A back zip is easier to get into and has a velcro neck fastening so it’s always tight, but it provides less flexibility in the water and velcro sticks to EVERYTHING.

Stitching.

There are choices… glued and blindstitched (edges glued and stitched together), flatlock (two overlapping edges stitched together with seams that lie flat inside and out) and critically taped (tape glued to maximum stress seams). The better the stitching, the warmer you will be and the longer your suit will last. Buy the best within your budget.

Go long or go short.

Shorties are great for those hot summer days, combining style and function. They are also the perfect companion for a good surf holiday to warmer waters. However, unless you are in the height of UK summer sunshine, or waiting for an exciting trip to the Maldives, a longer suit is far more suitable for UK water temps.