Best Wetsuit for Open Water Swimming Beginner [In 2025]

Open water swimming can be an exhilarating and challenging experience, but it’s important to have the right gear to stay comfortable and safe. One of the most essential pieces of equipment for open water swimmers, especially beginners, is a high-quality wetsuit. Wetsuits not only provide insulation to keep you warm in chilly waters, but they also offer buoyancy and protection from the elements. In this comprehensive product review, we’ll explore some of the best wetsuits and swim safety accessories for open water swimming beginners.

5 Best Wetsuit for Open Water Swimming Beginner Reviews

New Wave Swim Buoy – Swim Safety Float and Drybag for Open Water Swimmers, Triathletes, Kayakers and Snorkelers

Overview

The New Wave Swim Buoy is a lightweight, inflatable safety float designed to enhance visibility and provide a secure storage compartment for open water swimmers and triathletes. Offered in four bright colors, this versatile buoy can be used as a flotation device, a resting platform, and a dry bag for personal items.

Specs

• Visibility in Open Water: Brightly colored for maximum visibility to boats, jet skis, and other watercraft
• Safe Place to Float and Rest: Provides buoyancy for resting or distressed swimmers
• Storage of Personal Items: Separate dry compartment for storing keys, wallet, phone, and other essentials
• Capacity: 15L and 20L options for swimmers up to 190 lbs and 250 lbs, respectively

Pros

• Excellent visibility in the water
• Useful as a flotation device and storage compartment
• Lightweight and easy to use
• Durable and puncture-resistant construction

Cons

• Some customers report issues with the dry bag not being completely watertight

Customer Reviews

Customers find the swim buoy works well as advertised, providing peace of mind during open water swims and making them feel safer in the water. They appreciate its visibility, with one customer noting it’s visible up to 800 yards away, and find it easy to inflate and use. The storage capacity receives positive feedback, with one customer mentioning it’s big enough for keys and maybe a wallet. While the buoy keeps items dry, some customers report issues with the dry bag not being watertight.

Seaskin Wetsuits for Mens Womens 2mm Front Zip Full Body Diving Suits

Overview

The Seaskin wetsuit is a versatile full-body suit designed for a variety of water sports, including swimming, diving, and snorkeling. Crafted from high-quality neoprene, this wetsuit provides thermal insulation and flexibility for a comfortable and efficient performance in the water.

Specs

• Thickness: 2mm neoprene
• Closure: Front zip
• Sleeve Type: Long sleeves
• Fit: Mens/Womens

Pros

• Keeps the wearer warm in cold water
• Stretchy and comfortable for a range of water activities
• Flattering and well-constructed design
• Easy to put on and take off with the front zip closure

Cons

• Some customers report the wetsuit runs small and may require sizing up

Customer Reviews

Customers find the wetsuit fits well, with one mentioning it accommodates a 6’2″ guy weighing 210 lbs comfortably. Moreover, the suit keeps them warm and is easy to put on. They appreciate its flattering appearance and build quality, with one customer noting it provides enough insulation for all-day snorkeling.

Hevto Wetsuits Men 3/2mm Neoprene Front Zip Shorty Full Wet Suit in Cold Water for Swimming Surfing Diving Keep Warm

Overview

The Hevto wetsuit is a 3/2mm neoprene full-body suit designed for cold-water activities such as swimming, surfing, and diving. With a sturdy front zipper and thermal insulation, this wetsuit offers protection and flexibility for a variety of open-water sports.

Specs

• Thickness: 3/2mm neoprene
• Closure: Front zip
• Material: Neoprene and nylon fabric
• Zipper: #10 metal zipper puller

Pros

• Durable and well-constructed with a sturdy zipper
• Provides excellent thermal insulation in cold water
• Offers flexibility and comfort for a range of movements
• Suitable for various water sports, including swimming, surfing, and diving

Cons

• Some customers report the wetsuit runs small and may require sizing up
• Mixed feedback on the quality and durability of the zipper

Customer Reviews

Customers find the wetsuit fits as advertised and appreciate its durability, with one mentioning it held up well through a summer of SCUBA teaching. Moreover, the suit keeps customers warm in cold water, and they consider it good value for money. However, comfort receives mixed feedback – while some find it super comfortable, others note it’s too tight in the arms and neck. Additionally, the zipper quality is also mixed, with some reporting it holds up well while others experienced failures.

Synergy Triathlon Wetsuit 3/2mm – Volution Full Sleeve Smoothskin Neoprene for Open Water Swimming Ironman & USAT Approved

Overview

The Synergy Triathlon Wetsuit is a high-performance 3/2mm neoprene suit designed for open water swimming, triathlons, and other water sports. Featuring a hydrodynamic design and a range of functional features, this wetsuit is approved for use in Ironman and USAT events.

Specs

• Thickness: 3/2mm neoprene
• Closure: Internal YKK anti-corrosive zipper
• Neck: Super soft low neck with smoothskin on both sides
• Warranty: 1-year warranty with product registration

Pros

• High-quality construction with durable materials
• Provides excellent flexibility and buoyancy for efficient swimming
• Comfortable and non-restrictive neck design
• Backed by a 1-year warranty for added peace of mind

Cons

• Some customers report the wetsuit runs small, especially through the back and shoulders
• Concerns about the material ripping easily

Customer Reviews

Customers find the wetsuit to be of good quality, comfortable, and warm, with positive feedback about its design, stretchiness, and value for money. However, the fit receives mixed reviews, with several customers noting it runs small through the back and shoulders. Additionally, multiple customers report that the material rips easily.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Wetsuit for Open Water Swimming Beginner

Fit and Sizing

• Ensure the wetsuit fits snugly but comfortably, with no restrictive or loose areas
• Check the manufacturer’s size chart and consider your height, weight, and body type to find the right fit
• Some wetsuits may run small, so consider sizing up if you’re between sizes

Thickness and Warmth

• Look for a wetsuit with a thickness of 3/2mm or 2mm for open water swimming in cooler temperatures
• The thicker the neoprene, the more insulation and warmth the suit will provide
• Consider the water temperature and your personal cold tolerance when choosing the appropriate thickness

Flexibility and Mobility

• Look for a wetsuit with a flexible, stretchable design that allows for a full range of motion
• Flatlock stitching and articulated joints can help improve flexibility and reduce restriction
• Ensure the suit doesn’t feel too tight or restrictive, as this can hinder your swimming performance

Visibility and Safety

• Consider a swim buoy or tow float to enhance your visibility in open water
• Bright, neon colors can help make you more noticeable to boats and other water users
• Look for wetsuits with features like reflective panels or built-in safety devices

Durability and Longevity

• Opt for a wetsuit made from high-quality materials, such as premium neoprene and reinforced stitching
• Look for wetsuits with a warranty or guarantee for added peace of mind
• Proper care and maintenance can help extend the life of your wetsuit

FAQ

1. What are the benefits of wearing a wetsuit for open water swimming?
   • Wetsuits provide thermal insulation to keep you warm in cold water, reducing the risk of hypothermia
   • The buoyancy of a wetsuit can help improve your body position and swimming efficiency
   • Wetsuits offer protection from UV rays, abrasions, and other environmental factors in open water
2. How do I choose the right thickness of wetsuit for open water swimming?
   • The ideal wetsuit thickness depends on the water temperature and your personal cold tolerance
   • For open water swimming in cooler temperatures, a 3/2mm or 2mm wetsuit is generally recommended
   • If you tend to get cold easily, consider a thicker suit, such as a 4/3mm or 5/3mm wetsuit
3. How do I properly care for my wetsuit to extend its lifespan?
   • Rinse the wetsuit with fresh water after each use to remove salt, chlorine, and other contaminants
   • Hang the wetsuit to air dry, and avoid placing it in direct sunlight or using a dryer
   • Store the wetsuit in a cool, dry place, and avoid folding or creasing the material

In conclusion, choosing the right wetsuit is essential for open water swimming, especially for beginners. The products reviewed in this article offer a range of features and benefits to keep you warm, visible, and safe in the water. By considering factors like fit, thickness, flexibility, and safety, you can find the perfect wetsuit to enhance your open water swimming experience. Remember to always prioritize your comfort and safety when selecting the right gear for your aquatic adventures.