How to choose the right wetsuit (Part 1)
The first selection criterion when choosing a surfing wetsuit is the water temperature. Water temperature varies according to the location and the time of the year. Systematically make sure that the water temperature at your spot corresponds to the recommended temperature range: Warm water above 20°C. Temperate water between 17 and 22°C. Cold water between 12 and 17°C. Very cold water between 7 and 12°C. Visit the site seatemperature.org to find out the temperature of your spot.
How to choose the right wetsuit (Part 2)
The 2nd criterion to take into account is the length of your sessions. If your sessions last less than an hour, the 100 models will be suitable. For up to 2 hours, opt for the 500 models and for up to 3 hours, the 900 models.
Compared to the 100 models, the 500 models will be warmer (and more watertight) and more efficient at reducing fatigue (more freedom of movement) and irritation. The same is true for the 900 models compared with the 500 models.
NB: the 900 models are easier to put on.
Choose the right size
To make the most of the features of your wetsuit, it is necessary to choose the correct size. A surfing wetsuit should be a very tight fit and there should be no visible folds. When dry, it is perfectly normal to feel like it is too tight, this discomfort disappears as soon as the wetsuit gets wet. If you choose a wetsuit that is too big, folds will appear, you will experience irritation and thermal comfort will be reduced (letting in water).
Try it on before you buy it!
Materials
OLAIAN 900 wetsuits are made from 100% ultra-stretch neoprene, for guaranteed improved comfort during use and very good freedom of movement.
The neoprene is lined with synthetic fabric for added resistance to wear.
Neoprene thickness: 3 mm and 2 mm
The neoprene is made from an elastomer foam with insulating properties.
We test and guarantee the quality of our neoprene materials.
Neck
The neck finish has been developed to limit irritation. According to the sensitivity of the wearer, a UV top can be worn under the wetsuit to reduce the risk of irritation. The application of grease (e.g. Vaseline) in friction areas (neck, underarms, knees) is also recommended if wearing the wetsuit for long periods.
Maximum freedom of movement
The OLAIAN 900 men's wetsuit range offers a style and material specifically chosen to facilitate paddling and fully ease movement.
The entire wetsuit is made from ultra-stretch neoprene.
All the seams are stretch seams.
The front zip totally frees up the back during use.
Fastening
The front zip that fastens across the front of the chest ensures freedom of movement while providing a better watertight seal than a traditional back zip. The zip pull is made from stainless steel so as not to deteriorate when in contact with salt water.
Watertight assembly
The seams are stitched and glued for a watertight seal and durability.
The seams are "blind-stitched", meaning the thread does not entirely pass through the neoprene, preventing water getting through.
To further enhance the watertight seal and durability of the assembly of our 900 ranges, they are fully taped on the inside.
The absence of threads on the inside also avoids irritation and chafing.
Patches for comfort and reinforcement are strategically placed on the inside in sensitive areas.
Water stoppers
The ankles and wrists feature silicone stoppers to help stop water getting in. They also help keep the suit firmly in place when using gloves and boots.
Key pocket
There is a key pocket in the front panel under the zip.
Stay warm for longer thanks to our thermal accessories! Each temperature range has its own outfit...
When we are in the water, we lose more than half of our body heat through our extremities (feet, hands, head).
Consequently, here are the recommended accessories:
- in warm water and temperate water (>17°C) => neoprene low booties.
- in cold water (12 - 17°C): High booties (boots) and gloves.
- in very cold water (7 - 12°C): High booties (boots), gloves, hood and hooded top...
Find our entire range of neoprene accessories on our website
Multi-water sports wetsuits
Our wetsuits are designed to meet the needs of the most demanding surfers.
Our design choices also make them compatible with other water sports such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, sea wading or SUP (stand up paddle boarding).
What is the brand?
OLAIAN, DECATHLON'S SURFING BRAND
Based in Hendaye, in South West France, OLAIAN is Decathlon's surfing brand. In our offices at the water's edge, we’re able to design wetsuits and test them same-day in real conditions
Eco-design
Our 900 range wetsuits are made from limestone-based neoprene. The black colour of the neoprene, called Eco Carbon Black, is obtained by recycling used tyres. The glue used to assemble the textile and neoprene, called Aquaglue, is water-based and solvent-free. The dope dyeing yarn dyeing process used for the black colour is very water efficient and environmentally friendly.
