Wetsuits - alternatives?

[Squidsister]

Hi is a wetsuit really the only option for water sports in cold water? (Not surfing)

I find them such a nightmare to get on and off! I am still traumatised from hiring one in Cornwall last year and thought I’d never get the thing off...

I ordered a shorty one for our holiday in northern France but it’s so tight around the boobs it’s uncomfortable. With hindsight I should have got one especially designed for women but I don’t want to spend a fortune as I really don’t know how much I will use it.

Also I hate the sight of myself in a wetsuit - i have good legs but a middle-aged stomach and I think I just look like a big slug

So I am wondering if there’s an alternative - maybe a neoprene costume and shorts?

There are lots of two piece options eg Surfdome but whever you get it has to be made for women or there's no hope of it fitting well.

I agree about wetsuits, I hate them. I sea swim (south coast) from early in the year when the sea is really cold, and I use a normal swimsuit, neoprene boots and gloves. You should find that at this time of year (sea temp is now 17) gloves and boots would allow you to stay in as long as you like, could be worth giving that a try.

Take a look at decathlon. I have a sleeveless one, and a separate zip up top. The sleeveless one is much easier to get on and off, and sometimes I just wear the top anyway.

DH prefers to wear a thermal top (one that feels like a quick dry one).

I know what you mean about how you feel they look, I feel the same but then I have to remind myself that at least I am getting out there!

@Shellingbynight I always like the idea of sea swimming but I live on the NE coast. Do you have any tips? Our local club house is closed at the moment so I would have to change on the beach.

Thanks, I will have a look at the sleeveless neoprene ones with a long sleeved top. That sounds more manageable!