Buying a used wetsuit is one of those things that sounds weird until you actually think about it. Surfers pee in their wetsuits all the time. Rental wetsuits get used by hundreds of people. And 2nd hand wetsuits sell constantly because beginners buy them, use them twice, and move on.
So the short answer is yes, you can absolutely buy one. You just need to know what to look for.
The “gross” question
Wetsuits are easy to clean. A good rinse with fresh water after every surf session is standard practice, and most experienced surfers do it. If you pick up a used suit from someone who took care of it, you’re in fine shape.
The bigger concern is wear and tear, not hygiene.
Neoprene breaks down over time, whether the suit gets used or not. A suit that has seen 100 sessions in cold water is going to feel and perform differently than one that got worn 3 times by a beginner who decided surfing wasn’t their thing. Those are the ones worth finding.
When buying used makes sense
A lot of used wetsuits on the market are nearly new. Someone buys a suit, tries the sport a couple of times, and sells it. You end up with a high-quality suit for a fraction of the retail price.
One surfer who picked up an O’Neill Psycho 5/4 paid around $200 for a suit that retailed at $600. The previous owner said it was too warm for him. That kind of deal is out there if you look.
Kids’ suits are another strong case for buying used. Kids grow fast, so buying new every season makes little sense. A used Rip Curl or XCEL suit in good condition at 40 to 60% off retail is a practical choice.
What to check before you buy
Don’t buy blind. Here’s what actually matters:
- Seams. Check that they’re sealed and intact. Failing seams let cold water in and are hard to fix properly.
- Neoprene condition. Look for cracks, thinning, or delamination, especially around the knees, underarms, and crotch area. Those spots take the most stress.
- Zipper. Pull it open and shut a few times. It should move smoothly with no snags or corrosion.
- Fit. A wetsuit has to fit tight to work. Check the size chart carefully using both height and weight. Too loose and it flushes cold water constantly.
- Thickness. Make sure the suit matches your water temperature. A 3/2mm is fine for water in the mid-60s°F. For colder water around 48 to 55°F, you need a 4/3 or 5/4.
Aim to pay 40 to 60% of the original retail price for a suit in excellent condition.
Brands worth buying used
Stick to suits from brands with a track record for quality. They hold up better and are worth buying used because they still have years of performance left in them.
Good options include:
These brands make suits that last. Buying one used and in good shape beats buying a cheap new suit that falls apart after a season.
When to buy new instead
A used suit makes sense when the condition is good and the price reflects that. If most used options in your size have damaged seams, broken zippers, or heavy wear on the neoprene, a new suit is the safer call.
Budget options are out there for under $100 new on Amazon. They work for warmer water and casual use. But if you’re surfing in cold water regularly, a quality used suit from a known brand will keep you warmer and last longer than a cheap new one.
Where to find used wetsuits
The best spots to look are:
- Geartrade (used surf and outdoor gear marketplace)
- Facebook Marketplace
- Craigslist
- Depop
If you find a suit locally, try it on before you buy. If you’re buying online, read the condition notes carefully and check the size chart twice.
FAQ
How do I clean a used wetsuit before wearing it?
Rinse it thoroughly with cold, fresh water inside and out. You can use a wetsuit-specific cleaner or a small amount of baby shampoo. Hang it to dry away from direct sunlight. Turn it inside out while drying. Don’t use hot water or put it in a washing machine.
Does a used wetsuit still keep you warm?
Yes, as long as the neoprene is in good condition. Neoprene loses some of its insulating ability over time, but a well-cared-for used suit will still perform well. Check for thinning, cracks, or stiff spots in the material before buying.
What thickness wetsuit do I need?
It depends on your water temperature. A general guide:
- 65°F and above: 2mm or spring suit
- 58 to 65°F: 3/2mm full suit
- 50 to 58°F: 4/3mm full suit
- Below 50°F: 5/4mm or thicker, often with a hood
Can I repair a used wetsuit?
Yes. Small tears and holes can be fixed with neoprene cement or wetsuit repair glue. Seam repairs are possible too. Major damage is harder to fix and usually means the suit is past its useful life.
Is it worth buying a used wetsuit for just one surf trip?
Probably. A decent used suit will cost less than renting for multiple sessions. If you end up not surfing again, you can sell it back for a similar price.
How long does a wetsuit last?
With proper care, a good quality wetsuit lasts 5 to 10 years. Rinse it after every use, dry it away from the sun, and store it flat or on a wide hanger. Avoid folding it, which creases the neoprene and weakens it over time.
