Wetsuits allow divers, surfers, and water sports enthusiasts to stay warm and extend their time in the water.
A new wetsuit can be quite an investment. Purchasing quality used wet suits is an attractive option for many seeking big savings.
However, you want to ensure any used wetsuit you buy does not have potentially problematic flaws.
Here is a detailed guide on how to properly inspect a used wetsuit for leaks, damage, or excessive wear before purchasing.
Closely Check the Exterior Neoprene
Carefully run your fingers and eyes along the entire exterior surface of the wetsuit, feeling for any cracks, holes, thin spots or abnormal bumps in the neoprene material. Check for cuts, snags or abrasions along the length of the arms and legs.
Also check the back and stomach area by stretching the material for brittle, thin or torn spots. Leaks here allow cold water to flush in and defeat the wetsuit’s insulating purpose.
Inspect the Stitching Lines Thoroughly
Pay very close attention to all the exterior stitching lines along the arms, legs, back and front. Pull gently at different spots to see if the thread feels securely in place.
Watch for any loosening, unraveling or openings in the stitching that could compromise the suit’s seal. Loose stitching indicates poor initial construction or extensive wear.
Check All Zippers for Issues
Test the back zipper by zipping and unzipping it along its full length slowly. It should zip smoothly with no catching or grinding feeling.
Tug gently at closed zippers to check if they stay fastened. Inspect teeth for cracking or corroding, especially at the zipper ends. Check for fraying fabric along the zipper seams.
Look for Inner Lining Damage
Turn the wetsuit inside out to inspect the inner lining. Like the outer neoprene, check for thin spots, tears or holes in the lining which could let water penetrate the suit.
Also look for black flecks inside the lining which indicate the neoprene is breaking down. Be extra diligent checking lining damage around high-friction areas like the armpits, crotch and neck.
Examine Tapings for Issues
Wetsuit tapings provide extra insulation for critical warmth areas like the lower back. Check that tapings are fully secured to the interior lining and not partly peeling off.
Also run your fingers over tapings to feel for tears or gaps, especially at taping segment junctions. Damaged or missing tapings greatly lower warmth where applied.
Assess Wrist, Ankle and Neck Seals
These seals prevent flushing at the wetsuit extremities. First ensure seals are fully attached to the interior lining, with no tears at the bonding edge.
Next, stretch and manipulate the seals, feeling for any cracking, cuts or tears that compromise the seal. Check if the material feels overly dry, stiff or brittle. Also examine the exterior seal surface.
Look for Unusual Wear Patterns
While inspecting all the above areas, look for any abnormal or uneven wear patterns on the neoprene’s exterior and interior lining. Areas that appear excessively worn for a lightly used suit could indicate a manufacturing defect.
Wear around ankle and wrist seals usually happens faster. But excessive wear anywhere else indicates a potential problem spot.
Ask About Usage History
Beyond physical inspection, ask the seller questions about the wetsuit’s age, brand, how often it was used, for what water sports and its care routine. This history offers clues on expected condition and durability.
High use in abrasive conditions like surfing may quicken wear versus occasional pool use. Insufficient rinsing after use damages neoprene over time.
Do a Water Test If Possible
Ideally, test the wetsuit in water to check for leaks if the seller allows. Slowly submerge yourself up to the neck and see if any cool water flushes inside that area. Leaks may not be visible but detectable when in use.
Also check if any excessive air bubbles appear on the exterior neoprene, indicating air escaping through porous material. This is a definitive sign of leakage.
Take Time for Thorough Inspection
Rushing the inspection risks missing flaws that compromise wetsuit effectiveness and value. Take at least 10-15 minutes checking all key areas and asking usage history questions.
A meticulous inspection guards against ending up with a faulty second-hand wetsuit that leaks and provides minimal insulation due to unnoticed damage issues.
Thoroughly checking used wetsuits requires patience but it ensures you identify any problem areas before purchase.
Follow these tips to assess true condition and make an informed buying decision. A high-quality used wetsuit that passes inspection can deliver years of warmth at big savings.
