wetsuit stretch

[jaybombs25]

ok may jus b a dumb question... wetsuits stretch a little when wet right... do they also stretch a bit with extended wear??

 

[spectrum]

They will sometimes mold to your form over time. This is most noticable in custom suits that come new without pre-bent panels. If stretched significantly the cells in the neoprene will tear and the material will grow in this manner. This is not something you want to do to attain a fit though it's a common remedy to tweak the neck portion of a hood, hooded vest or neoprene drysuit seal.

When wet you are more apt to feel more comfort because the wetness lubricates the fit while your motion lets the suit settle into place with even tension.

As far as "with wear" it all depends on things like the depths of your dives, storage conditions, grade of the intital materials and how the suit fits to begin.

Pete

 

[jaybombs25]

thanks another question... what about tryin it out in a pool in chlorine water any opinions on that and where can I put it to dry in the winter after i do? thanks

 

[RedCash02]

Trying it out in a pool is fine. I'd just make sure to rinse it off with some fresh water then leave it hanging up inside out in the garage or over a bathtub.

 

[Firefyter]

I'd swear my 7mm suit shrunk instead of stretched

 

[jaybombs25]

thanks