How to choose the best wetsuit gloves for winter surfing? 🧤🌊

When the water gets colder, choosing the right wetsuit gloves becomes essential to continue surfing comfortably. Too thin, and you risk frozen hands. Too thick, and your paddling will suffer. So, how do you find the perfect balance between warmth and performance? We're here to guide you!

1. What neoprene thickness should you choose?

The thickness of your gloves depends directly on the water temperature:

• 1.5 to 2 mm → Water between 13°C and 18°C: Ideal for mid-season, maintains good flexibility.
• 3 mm → Water between 10°C and 13°C: Good balance between warmth and dexterity.
• 5 mm → Water below 10°C: Maximum protection against cold, but less mobility.

💡 Tip: The thicker it is, the warmer it is... but also the more rigid. Find the right compromise depending on your usual spot!

2. What type of gloves should you prioritize?

There are three main categories of surfing gloves:

• Five-finger gloves 🖐: Offer the best dexterity, perfect for moderate temperatures.
• Mittens 🧤: Ideal for freezing sessions, as they keep fingers together for more warmth.
• Three-finger gloves (lobster gloves) 🦞: An excellent compromise between warmth and flexibility.

👉 If you surf regularly in winter, opt for 3-finger gloves, which maintain good warmth without sacrificing too much paddling ability.

3. Which materials and technologies should you prioritize?

Not all gloves are created equal! For more comfort and durability, choose models with:

✅ Quality neoprene: Good neoprene (Yamamoto, Limestone...) ensures insulation and flexibility.
✅ Thermal lining: Some brands include a fleece lining or a thermal fiber interior for extra warmth.
✅ Eco-friendly neoprene: Eicoprene or recycled neoprene are good alternatives to reduce your environmental impact.
✅ Watertight seams: GBS (Glued & Blind Stitched) seams limit water infiltration and improve longevity.

💡 Also remember to check elasticity: a good glove should remain flexible to facilitate paddling!

4. How to choose the right size?

Gloves that are too tight cut off circulation and will make your hands cold. Conversely, gloves that are too loose will let water in and lose effectiveness.

🛠 How to choose them well?

• They should be snug, with no space between your fingers and the end of the glove.
• Try them on wet if possible: neoprene stretches slightly in water.
• Prefer a size slightly smaller than your usual size to prevent water from easily infiltrating.

5. The little extras that make a difference

Certain details can really improve your session in winter:

🔥 Palm grip → Helps you hold your board better.
🔥 Snug or long cuffs → Limits water entry and improves insulation.
🔥 Soft inner lining → For easier donning and optimal comfort.

💡 Be careful with gloves that are too thick! Excessive rigidity can make your take-offs and duck dives more complicated.

Our recommendation for regular surfers

If you surf often in winter, here's what we advise:
✔ Temperature above 12°C → 3 mm, five-finger gloves for more dexterity.
✔ Temperature between 8 and 12°C → 3 to 5 mm, 3-finger model for a good compromise.
✔ Temperature below 8°C → 5 mm mittens for maximum warmth.

Keep your hands warm and surf all year round 🌊

With gloves adapted to your practice and the water temperature, no more frozen fingers after 30 minutes! Remember to rinse your gloves after each session, and let them dry away from direct sunlight to extend their lifespan.

👉 Discover our selection of neoprene gloves on Shapers Club and get ready for great winter sessions! 💙