Things to Check Before Buying a Used Wetsuit
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Things to Check Before Buying a Used Wetsuit
Used wetsuits are an attractive option for anyone looking to get into surfing on a budget. Since they’re more affordable than new ones, they’re often a good choice for beginners or anyone who just wants to give it a try.
However, it can be difficult to judge the condition of a used wetsuit based on appearance alone. Even if it looks clean in the photos, the fabric may have stiffened, water may leak in around the neck, wrists, or ankles, or the zipper may be damaged.
Sometimes, after making a purchase, you might find that "even though I thought I got a good deal, the repair costs ended up being higher." It’s important to check a few basic points before buying.
1. Check for signs of wear around the neck
First, check the neck area. The neck is prone to being pulled when putting on or taking off the garment, making it susceptible to wear and tear, cracking, and water penetration.
- Check for cracks around the neck
- Is the rubber stretched out?
- Check to see if the surface has turned whitish or is showing signs of deterioration
- Check the inside of your neck for any peeling
If water gets in around the neck, it can feel quite cold—especially with winter semi-dry suits. Before buying a used one, you should definitely check photos of the neck area.
2. Check the condition of your wrists and ankles
Your wrists and ankles are also areas where water can easily get in. If the material is stretched, torn, or peeling on the inside, water is more likely to seep in when you use them.
- Are your wrists and ankles straight?
- Check for tears or holes
- Check to see if the adhesive on the inside has come loose
- Is the rubber hardened?
Even minor damage can cause water to leak into the device when it comes into contact with water. If the photos don’t show the condition clearly, it’s safer to ask the seller for additional photos before purchasing.
3. Check for chafing or holes in the knee pads
Your knees are particularly prone to injury from paddling out, taking off, and friction against the board. With used wetsuits, the knee pads may be worn thin or have holes in them.
- Are the knee pads worn thin?
- Check for holes
- Is one knee in particularly bad shape?
- Check to see if the fabric around the knees is frayed
Knee pads can sometimes be replaced or reinforced, but the cost varies depending on their condition. If you factor in repair costs before purchasing, you're less likely to make a mistake.
4. Check that the zipper opens and closes properly
For wetsuits with zippers, the condition of the zipper is also important. If the zipper is stiff, won’t close, or the slider is damaged, it may need to be repaired.
- Will the zipper close all the way?
- Is the slider coming loose?
- Are the zipper teeth aligned?
- Check to see if the fabric around the zipper is torn
Depending on the condition of the zipper, repairs may involve simply replacing the slider, or they may require replacing the entire zipper. Please check the photos of the zipper before purchasing.
5. Check the stiffness and condition of the fabric
One thing that’s particularly easy to overlook with used wetsuits is the deterioration of the fabric itself. Even if it looks clean in photos, the neoprene in an old wetsuit may have hardened.
- Does the fabric look whitish?
- Check for fine cracks on the surface
- Are there any noticeable creases?
- Check to see if the rubber has become powdery
- Doesn't it look a bit stiff overall?
If the entire fabric has become stiff, a partial repair may not ensure the item lasts very long. In such cases, it might be better to consider replacing the item rather than repairing it.
6. Check if the size fits
One of the most common mistakes people make when buying used wetsuits is choosing the wrong size. People often assume that a wetsuit will still fit even if the size is slightly off, but if the size isn’t right, it can affect both thermal insulation and mobility.
- Height
- Weight
- Chest circumference
- Waist circumference
- Hip circumference
- Inseam
- neck area
If the size is too large, water will easily get in; if it’s too small, it will be hard to move around in. Beginners, in particular, should not choose based on price alone; instead, prioritize finding the right fit.
7. Take repair costs into account
When buying a used wetsuit, it’s best not to judge it solely by the purchase price. Even if you buy it cheaply, the total cost can end up being high if you need to repair the neck area, knee pads, zippers, or water leaks.
For example, asking yourself the following questions before making a purchase can help you make a decision.
- How much did it cost?
- Are there any areas that look like they need repair?
- Is it still a good deal even after adding in the repair costs?
- How many more years will it last?
- How does it compare to brand-new wetsuits or those sold directly from the factory?
Depending on the condition, it may actually be cheaper in the long run to choose a wetsuit in good condition from the start rather than buying a cheap used one.
You can consult with us via photos before purchasing
If you're unsure about the condition of a used wetsuit before purchasing it, you can check it via photos. Please send us photos of any areas of concern—such as the neck, wrists, ankles, knees, zippers, or tears—and we'll let you know whether it can be repaired or if you should be cautious about its condition.
In particular, if you're thinking of buying from Mercari or a secondhand store, checking these things before you buy can help you avoid making a mistake.
Before buying a used wetsuit, check its condition first
If you have concerns about the neckline, cuffs, ankles, knees, zippers, or tears, you can check the photos before purchasing. Please feel free to consult with us about whether the item can be repaired or if it would be better to replace it.