As a surfer, your wetsuit is one of the most important pieces of equipment that you own. It protects you from the cold water, keeps you buoyant, and even helps you catch waves. However, with regular use, your wetsuit may become damaged and require repair. Fortunately, most of the time, you can fix it yourself in a few simple steps.
Table of Contents
This method is suitable for a clean cut or tear caused by a fingernail or a fin hitting the wetsuit. Or, when you have cut but it is not all the way through.
In the Ultimate Wetsuit Guide you can also discover other methods on repairing your website, for example the “Patch Repair Method” and the “Iron-On Reinforcement Patch Method”.
What You Need
- Neoprene glue (recommended: Neoprene Queen Contact Cement)
- Toothpick (or something similar)
- A couple of books (as weights)
- Microfiber cloth
Steps to follow
Time needed: 10 minutes
Use the following steps to repair a cut in your wetsuit:
- Clean the cut
Clean the cut with a microfiber cloth.
- Apply glue to the cut
Apply the glue on both sides of the cut and use the toothpick to apply it evenly.
- Let it dry
Leave it to dry for a few minutes so the glue will become tacky (check the glue’s instructions for the exact duration).
- Press and hold
Firmly press together to create a joint and hold for 2 minutes.
- Let it cure
Leave the glue to cure for at least 12 hours.
If the cut is in a position that doesn’t stay in place easily, you can stack a few books on top of it. Make sure to put something between the glue and the books, so you don’t damage your books.
FAQ
Neoprene Queen Contact Cement is recommended for repairing a wetsuit cut. This type of glue is specifically designed for use with neoprene material, which is what wetsuits are made of.
After applying the glue to both sides of the cut and pressing the two sides together firmly, it should be left to dry for a few minutes until the glue becomes tacky. The glue then needs to cure for at least 12 hours before the wetsuit can be used again.
Yes, there are other methods for repairing a wetsuit. The Ultimate Wetsuit Guide mentioned in the article also describes two other methods: the “Patch Repair Method” and the “Iron-On Reinforcement Patch Method”. These methods are suitable for different types of damage and require different materials and techniques.
In conclusion, repairing your wetsuit may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done quickly and easily. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using the recommended products, you can extend the life of your wetsuit and get back in the water in no time. Remember, always take proper care of your wetsuit and store it properly to prevent future damage.
See you in the water!
