What Wetsuit Thickness Do You Need in Southern California?

The right wetsuit is the difference between a fun session and a cold, short one. Southern California water swings a fair bit through the year, so here is what to wear and when, tuned to Laguna Beach and Orange County temps.

How wetsuit thickness works

Wetsuits are described by two numbers, like 4/3 or 3/2. The first is the neoprene thickness on your core in millimeters, the second is the thickness on your arms and legs, where you need more flexibility. Thicker is warmer, thinner is more flexible. The trick is matching thickness to the water temperature.

Season by season in Laguna

• Summer, June to September, around 68 to 72 F: boardshorts or a 2mm spring suit. On the warmest days you may not need rubber at all.
• Fall, October to November, around 62 to 68 F: a 3/2 full wetsuit keeps you comfortable as the water cools.
• Winter, December to February, around 56 to 62 F: a 4/3 full wetsuit is the standard, with booties on the coldest mornings.
• Spring, March to May, around 58 to 64 F: a 3/2 or 4/3 depending on your cold tolerance and how long you stay out.

A good 4/3 will carry you through most of the cooler California surf year, and a 3/2 covers the shoulder seasons.

Fit matters as much as thickness

A wetsuit only works if it fits snug with no big gaps for water to flush through. It should feel firm but let you paddle freely. If you are between sizes or new to suits, come in and we will help you dial the fit.

Rent or buy

Just visiting or trying surfing for the first time? We rent full wetsuits by the day alongside our board rentals. When you are ready to own one, the shop stocks wetsuits for men, women, and kids in every thickness you will need here.

New to surfing?

Pair the right suit with a surf lesson or read our beginner surfboard guide to get fully set up.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a wetsuit to surf in Laguna Beach?

Most of the year, yes. Water runs from the high 50s in winter to low 70s in summer. A 3/2 or 4/3 covers the cool months, and boardshorts or a spring suit work in peak summer.

What is the difference between a 3/2 and a 4/3 wetsuit?

A 3/2 has 3mm on the core and 2mm on the limbs, good for fall and spring. A 4/3 has 4mm and 3mm, warmer and better for winter.

Can I rent a wetsuit?

Yes, we rent full wetsuits by the day at the shop, along with surfboards. Ask staff about sizing.