A new wetsuit can feel surprisingly snug when you first try it on. That’s completely normal.

Neoprene becomes softer and more flexible when wet, so the wetsuit can move with your body more naturally. This means that a wetsuit that feels close-fitting when dry will often feel more comfortable once you are in the water.

That’s why choosing a wetsuit that already feels loose during a dry fitting is usually not the best option.

Should a wetsuit feel tight when dry?

It should feel snug and close to the body, especially when it is new.

A little resistance when putting it on is completely normal. The wetsuit should not feel painful or restrict your breathing, but it should not hang loosely from the body either.

Does neoprene stretch permanently?

Neoprene is naturally elastic, but it does not simply become a size larger after one use.

With regular wear, the material may gradually soften and become more flexible. This is another reason why getting the right fit from the beginning is important.

What if you are between two sizes?

In general, we also recommend choosing one size smaller than you usually wear in everyday clothing, while still making sure the wetsuit does not feel painfully tight or restrict your breathing or movement.

A dry fitting can feel very different from being in the water

The most important thing to remember is that a wetsuit should not be judged only by how it feels during the first dry fitting.

Water, movement and body heat all affect how the material feels while you are wearing it.

At LOUM, we use soft and flexible neoprene designed to move with the body and provide comfort both in and out of the water.