Are Custom Wetsuits Worth The Extra Cost?
Wes Severson February 27th, 2025 Posted In: Articles
Thanks to the convenience of online shopping, millions of surfers, myself included, have ordered a wetsuit online without trying it on. Most of us want the best deal even if that means sacrificing a perfect wetsuit fit. However, after reading this blog, you might be questioning you past purchasing while asking yourself “Are custom wetsuits worth the extra cost?” Or, it might be something you’ve been pondering for a while or something you’ve never thought about at all.
There are many not-so-obvious reasons why the answer is a resounding yes to the question “Are custom wetsuits worth it?” We will take you on a deep dive into why custom wetsuits really live up to the hype for some people, and not so much others.
Cost Comparison: Custom Wetsuits vs. Manufactured Wetsuits
I mentioned cost at the beginning, so let’s start there. Let’s check out how much more you’d be spending for a custom wetsuit compared to a brand-name off-the-rack wetsuit with pre-specified measurements.
Average Cost of a Medium Men’s Wetsuit Off the Rack:
- Entry-Level: Generally made for relatively warmer waters or occasional use.
- Price: $100 to $200
- Mid-Priced: A Balance of quality and affordability with better materials and construction.
- Price $200 and $400
- High-End: Performance-oriented wetsuits with the best materials, added features, and more craftsmanship.
- Price: $400 to $700
Custom wetsuits generally start at around $400 and can easily blow past $700 or more. The common range is $450 to $650, so you can see that there is a big difference in price when compared to entry-level wetsuits, but not much more of a cost than the premium high-end wetsuits.
Why Custom Wetsuits Are More Expensive
The first thing to consider about the higher price is the labor it takes to make a wetsuit. It’s not an easy task and takes an abundance of skill and knowledge, not mention man hours. Even before the actual construction of the wetsuit starts, the maker most go through a lengthy customization process with each customer.
Custom wetsuits can include things like specialized linings, heavy-duty seam construction, reinforced panels to add warmth to specific parts of the body, high-grade neoprene that will make the suit last long, custom zipper placement, and more. All these upgraded materials come with a cost.
Better Fit Could Mean More Fun
Most of us have never tried on a custom wetsuit so we will never know the difference, which is a tragedy. Cause if I asked “Are custom wetsuits worth it?” You would absolutely say yes right after you zipped up and moved your arms and legs. Custom wetsuits are tailored to your exact measurements. Each limb, your chest, your neck, your stomach, it’s all measured and cut so it fits like a second skin. That means no more awkward gaps, restrictive armpits, knee bunching, loose fitting lower back, and all the other problems that can come from off-the-rack suits.
The tailored fit will allow for optimum comfort and performance. Paddling will be easier, popping up will feel more fluid, you’ll be warmer and evenly insulated. All of this could translate to you staying in the water longer, catching more waves, and having more fun.
Warmth & Performance
It’s one thing if you are surfing once a month in 65 degree water, but if you are surfing daily or even a few times a week in water below 58 degrees, your wetsuit is a life saver. You know how crucial your wetsuit can be when it comes to how long your session lasts.
In many cases, custom wetsuits can almost eliminate water flush. That’s when cold water shoots down your back as you’re duck diving. When this happens over and over it can send us running to our car to turn on the heater. It’s an energy drain as your body fights to keep you warm while also fighting the ocean.
A custom wetsuit feels more like an extension of your body and will work more like your skin. Not only will it keep you warmer but it will create a greater range of motion, increase paddling efficiency and speed, strengthen your duck dives, and contribute to a better surfing experience overall.
Durability & Longevity
If you’re still dealing with sticker shock after our earlier cost comparison, there are some things to think about that may change your mind on whether a custom wetsuit is worth it. Let’s think long term. Your wetsuit is an investment. A custom wetsuit might last you 3 to 4 years because of the quality of materials and added craftsmanship.
Compare that to just one year with a cheap off-the-rack wetsuit. When a manufactured wetsuit doesn’t fit right it wears out faster. The areas that are stressed by the improper fit will inevitably start letting more and more water in over time. When your fit is tailored to your exact measurements, the added stress doesn’t happen, making your wetsuit last much longer.
Different Body Types
When most of us think about a surfer, we think about a guy who is in shape, thin, with an average yet muscular build. However, that stereotype has made it’s way into the wetsuit manufacturing world. Many pre-measured wetsuits are made for that body type. But what if you don’t have that body type? Finding a wetsuit that fits you can be a nightmare.
Let’s face it, many of us have unique features to our bodies. You might be tall and thin, stocky and short, broad shoulders, long legs, long arms, etc. Finding a wetsuit that suits your body’s exact dimensions might be impossible.
A custom wetsuit could be the perfect option for people who can’t seem to find anything that fits right. Making the decision to get a custom suit could save you a lot of time. You’d be able to stop trying on wetsuit after wetsuit, looking for one that works.
Are Custom Wetsuits Worth The Extra Cost?
The answer to this question is obviously yes. The added labor and upgraded materials paired with a custom fit that feels like a glove is worth the price. However, the bigger question is: Is a custom wetsuit right for me? By now, you should have a pretty good idea whether a custom wetsuit is in your future or not.
If the improved comfort, performance, durability, and longevity justifies the extra cash, you will no doubt have a very exciting time when you start talking about your exact customizations with the designer.
If that is the route you are going to go, there are some things to consider when finding a custom wetsuit maker. Read reviews if you can find them. Custom wetsuit makers who offer a quality product will have no shortage of people offering up honest, positive reviews. If you don’t see any reviews, that could be a red flag. Also, make sure they give you clear and detailed instructions once the process starts. Finally, ask about the warranty and return policies in case of any issues after you receive it. Good luck and enjoy the comfort!
