If you’re in the market for a wetsuit, you’ll notice that they come in a range of different thicknesses. It can be a hassle to choose a suitable thickness for you.<\/p>\n
4\/3 and 3\/2 are among the most common thickness levels for wetsuits. So, which one is better for you?<\/p>\n
Look no further for the answer! Today’s article will help you select the suitable wetsuit thickness for your water adventures. Let’s dive into the details!<\/p>\n
Read my wetsuit thickness guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n The thickness of a wetsuit is basically the thickness of the neoprene<\/a> layer inside it before applying the inside and outside lining. Neoprene thickness can be anywhere from 2 mm to 7 mm, depending on the type of suit.<\/p>\n Typically, the legs, arms, and shoulders of the suit are slightly thinner to allow flexibility. In other words, the neoprene thickness can vary from one part of the wetsuit to the other. That’s why manufacturers express the thickness of the suit by two or three digits.<\/p>\n In some cases, people refer to them as 4.3 and 3.2 suits. The first digit indicates the thickness of the neoprene in the torso area. On the other hand, the second digit specifies the thickness of the neoprene at the extremities.<\/p>\n So, a 4\/3 suit’s main panels are 4 mm and 2 mm thick. Similarly, a 3\/2 suit’s main panels are 3 mm and 2 mm.<\/p>\n Let’s check out some of the key differences that can affect your choice between the 4\/3 and the 3\/2.<\/p>\n The main ingredient in a wetsuit<\/a> is neoprene, which is treated, durable rubber. The thicker the neoprene layer, the less flexible it becomes.<\/p>\n However, this isn’t a bad thing, as not all activities or water spots require the same level of flexibility. For example, open-water swimmers and surfers need more movement than divers. That said, the 3\/2 suits provide more freedom to the wearer than the 4\/3.<\/p>\n Neoprene is an excellent insulator and heat regulator. Therefore, thicker suits can provide more warmth to the wearer. However, the extra warmth comes at the price of the wetsuit being heavier and less flexible.<\/p>\n Both suits can provide adequate warmth, but a 4\/3 would do it better than a 3\/2.<\/p>\n Water temperature is perhaps the most crucial factor that can influence your choice of neoprene thickness. In fact, each thickness level is suitable for a particular range of water temperatures.<\/p>\n For instance, a 4\/3 mm suit is suitable for water temperatures around 52\u00b0F to 58\u00b0F. Generally, we use the 4\/3 suits around spring and summer.<\/p>\n On the other hand, a 3\/2 mm suit is suitable for water temperatures around 58\u00b0F to 63\u00b0F. The 3\/2 suits are also perfect for summer and spring.<\/p>\n Thickness has a small influence on the durability of a wetsuit.<\/p>\n Let me explain how:<\/p>\n Since neoprene is durable, the more neoprene a suit contains, the more rugged it becomes.<\/p>\n Therefore, thicker suits are less prone to direct damage and can also last longer. However, most wetsuits are durable enough, so it doesn’t make a big difference.<\/p>\n That said, a 4\/3 suit is relatively more durable than a 3\/2 suit.<\/p>\n The less flexible a suit is, the tighter it can feel. Nevertheless, thickness and flexibility don’t influence fit greatly. In some cases, you might need to opt for a bigger size when buying a thicker wetsuit<\/a>.<\/p>\n 4\/3 wetsuits are suitable for cooler weather. They can become pretty heated on a sunny day. On the other hand, the 3\/2 wetsuits are suitable for slightly warmer weather.<\/p>\n In some places with warm water, you can even use a 3\/2 wetsuit all year<\/a> long.<\/p>\n Thick wetsuits are basically pricier than thin wetsuits. That’s not because it contains more neoprene, but because thick wetsuits<\/a> usually have more technologies that keep you warm.<\/p>\n As such, in most cases, a 4\/3 suit will be pricier than a 3\/2 one. Keep in mind that the pricing can vary from one brand to the other.<\/p>\n Since the difference between the 4\/3 and the 3\/2 wetsuits is only 1 mm, they’re quite similar.<\/p>\n Typically, they come as hooded or non-hooded full suits. You can rarely find spring suits with a 4\/3 or a 3\/2 thickness.<\/p>\n Additionally, you can wear them in spring or summer, depending on the water temperature.<\/p>\n Despite the 4\/3 being thicker than the 3\/2, they both achieve a good balance between flexibility and thickness.<\/p>\n The 4\/3 and the 3\/2 wetsuits aren’t that different from each other. So, it can be hard to pick one of them.<\/p>\n The first thing that you need to consider is the purpose of the wetsuit. Some water activities require more flexibility, while others prefer more warmth.<\/p>\nWhat Do 4\/3 and 3\/2 Stand For?<\/h2>\n
Key Differences Between the 4\/3 and the 3\/2 Wetsuits<\/h2>\n
Flexibility<\/h3>\n
Warmth<\/h3>\n
Water Temperature<\/h3>\n
Durability<\/h3>\n
Fit<\/h3>\n
Usage<\/h3>\n
Pricing<\/h3>\n
Similarities Between the 4\/3 and the 3\/2 Wetsuits<\/h2>\n
4\/3 vs. 3\/2: Which Is Better for You?<\/h2>\n