Cheap wetsuits are for surfers who have less than 2 Benjamins to spend on a suit for cold water. Fortunately you don't have to drop 500 bucks on every wetsuit to be comfortable in 50 degree water.
There are only two ways to get a decent cheap wetsuit. One is to buy a used wetsuit that still has some life left in it. The other is to go for a new wetsuit that is priced..well, cheap! This is also know as the "discount wetsuit". Both methods can be tricky. Let's check out both ways.
Used Wetsuits
The biggest problem with used wetsuits is that many just don't retain warmth anymore. They may look fine, threads and glue may be intact, but when you put them on they are stiff and when you get wet you stay cold. Here are a few things to look for.
Neoprene - Stretch the wetsuit out and feel the elasticity compared to a new decent wetsuit. If you don't feel that stuff doesn't stretch out nearly as well, forget it, the neoprene has had it. Another sign is a much paler "faded" look.
Stitches and Glue - Look at all the seams, are the threads still all there. It's not uncommon to have an entire seam unravel leaving only the glue holding it together. Is there cracking along the glue? Water will flow through areas like that. These seams can be hard to repair.
Holes - Look for any holes, especially the knees. If a wetsuit is otherwise intact, small holes can easily be repaired and this should not necessarily deter your purchase.
Most used wetsuits are pretty shot, but if you find one that meets the above criteria from a known good brand like Oneill, Rip Curl, or Billabong; you may have a great cheap wetsuit. Craigslist or is usually a good place to find these.
Discount Wetsuits
You can get discount wetsuits by buying low-cost lines from top brands, or buying an unknown brand. The bottom of this page shows a few examples of these.
Low Cost-Top Brand - The big difference between a brands top of the line vs inexpensive line is flexibility. The discount line can even last longer than the top line. The neoprene is usually thicker, and consequently less flexible, but it holds up over time better than the thinner stretchy ultra-tech stuff. My latest, best, most expensive wetsuit also happens to be my most short lived. It's super flexible though, and since I still have a job I will probably get the same one again. If your willing to live will a little less flexibility, a top brand-low line wetsuit can be the best way to go.
Unknown Brand - There are smaller wetsuit companies popping up all the time and some offer great products. Pay attention to the warranty on these. Google some reviews for these cheap wetsuits and see what other surfers. Pay particular attention to the follow up on warranty repairs. Perhaps the company had some flaws in the first release of wetsuits but has the next years lineup improved. The main thing is that the flaws weren't too deep and that company responded well to warranty claims.
So there you have it you cheap ass surfers. You don't have to freeze just because your collecting unemployment checks. Between used and discount wetsuits you should find something that will keep you comfortable and catching waves. It may not be the best wetsuit in the water but it will work just fine.
Cheap Wetsuit Recommendations
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What Other Visitors Have Said
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Beginners go Cheap
I would definitely recommend cheap wetsuits for beginners. You never know if your going to stick with it and even if you do it will have plenty of time ...
Cheap wetsuits are for surfers who have less than 2 Benjamins to spend on a suit for cold water. Fortunately you don't have to drop 500 bucks on every wetsuit to be comfortable in 50 degree water.
