Just because summer is over doesn’t mean you have to put up the water-skiing gear. Avid water skiers like to ski year-round, and that means skiing even when the air and water temperatures drop. Skiing without a wetsuit in cold water temperatures can be uncomfortable and dangerous, even leading to hypothermia. If you want to take a go at it, a wetsuit for water skiing should be a vital part of your equipment.
When is it Too Cold to Water Ski?
How cold is too cold for water skiing? Or when should I use a wetsuit for water skiing? One rule of thumb is the “100-degree rule” which says that the water temperature plus the air temperature should equal at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit for safe water skiing, provided you have the right water ski accessories. Aside from water temperature though, you also should consider wind speeds and rain. These factors can contribute to more chill in the water and the air, making it difficult to water ski without the right equipment.
What Kind of Wetsuit Do I Need?
There are multiple types of wetsuits out in the market. Choosing the right one can seem a bit tricky, but we’ll go through the different scenarios and hopefully help you narrow down the right one for you. At the end of the day, it is all about comfort and safety. After that, it’s all about the water temperatures.
Really Cold Water
In general, if the water is colder than 65 degrees Fahrenheit, consider a full wetsuit and accessories, such as a hood or gloves. The O’Neill Men’s Reactor 3/2mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit protects you from cold water and wind. It also has an adjustable neck and breathable seams. While you are a bit more restricted with a full-body wetsuit, the added layers will allow your body to stay warm even in the colder temperatures.
If the Water is Not as Cold
For water temperatures in the 60- to 70-degree range, a short-sleeved wetsuit is usually a comfortable choice. The O’Neill Men’s Reactor 2mm Back Zip Short Sleeve Spring Wetsuit is an ideal choice for when the water temperature is about 65 to 72 degrees and feels cool when you first get in. This wetsuit features high-stretch neoprene, breathable seams, and zones of padding to reduce chafing. It also offers protection from cold water temperatures, wind, and harmful UV rays.
When the Water is the Perfect Temperature
When temperatures reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit and above, the water is warmer and more comfortable for a skier without a wetsuit. If the water still feels chilly though, a short-sleeved wetsuit or two-piece wetsuit with a top or bottoms might be a good choice.
For optimal skiing performance, comfort level, and enjoyability, consider wearing a wetsuit and gear in colder temperatures. For more information about wetsuits for water skiing, wakeboarding, and more, come see us at your local Sun & Ski Sports. Our local experts are ready to help you have the best watersports adventure. Or check out the Adventure Resource Guide. These guides have cool tips and tricks on your favorite outdoor activities including our beginner’s guide to water skiing and 5 reasons why you should get a mountain bike.