WETSUIT REPAIR

Wetsuit Repair Step 1

Start with some neoprene glue and three basic household items.

  • Aqua-Seal Black Seal Cement 60mL (2 fl.oz) tube (available at your wetsuit retailer or local dive shop)
  • Cotton Swab
  • Scissors
  • Household Cellophane Tape
Wetsuit Repair Step 2

Clean and prep the surface in and around the fingernail cut. Make sure that the area is dry and clean. If dirty, use a warm damp rag to clean the surrounding area and allow it to dry completely before proceeding.

Wetsuit Repair Step 3

Apply wetsuit glue to the fingernail cut with an applicator. (Cut off one end of a cotton swab to create the perfect applicator.) Lightly pinch the neoprene together to open the cut, then apply a small quantity of glue to both the inside and outside edges. When you release the neoprene, a thin film of glue should appear.

Wetsuit Repair Step 4

Make sure the cut remains together until the glue dries. Apply a small piece of cellophane tape perpendicularly across the cut to hold it together. Ideally, allow the glue to dry overnight (or at least a few hours) before gently peeling off the tape, which will also remove any excess glue.

WETSUIT MAINTENANCE

WETSUIT DON'TS

Wetsuit Don't 1

Avoid contact of the smoothskin side of the neoprene with anything abrasive. For optimal performance, use your triathlon wetsuit only for open water swimming. Ensure that the rough hook-and-loop (Velcro) closures remain covered and closed to protect the smoothskin.

Wetsuit Don't 2

Never leave the wetsuit out in the sun for extended periods. The sun’s UV rays and heat can accelerate the breakdown of the neoprene.

Wetsuit Don't 3

Avoid leaving the wetsuit inside your car. Prolonged heat inside a parked car can melt the glue and prematurely age the neoprene.

WETSUIT DO'S

Wetsuit Do 1

Give your wetsuit a thorough freshwater rinse. Rinse your suit immediately after use—or when you get home—to remove salt or chlorine. A garden hose or shower works well. (Note that occasional pool use is fine, but heavy usage may shorten the life of the suit.)

Wetsuit Do 2

After rinsing, hang the wetsuit on a shaped hanger inside-out to dry. This helps the suit dry faster. Once the inside is dry to the touch, turn it right-side-out and store it in a cool, dark place.

Wetsuit Do 3

At the end of the season, check your suit thoroughly. Inspect both the outside for abrasions and the inside for seam and zipper issues. Fix minor cuts using our Syn-Seal vulcanizer, or call us at 1-415-895-8192 if your warranty might cover major seam repairs.

Wetsuit Do 4

If your wetsuit feels too tight after winter, try a bath tub soak. Soaking your suit for a few minutes can help restore flexibility by allowing the micro bubbles in the neoprene to rehydrate.