Modern wetsuits are now that advanced and robust that any wear and tear usually happens with suits that are some years of age. Although well made wetsuits do have a tendency to reach a certain point in their life cycle before seams start to split or neoprene wears thin. Usually a wetsuit will last for 2-3 years depending on the brand, quality and overall price that has been paid. It's true that the more you pay the more you get and this is no different with the life span of a wetsuit.
Wetsuit neoprene is mixed with other materials such as lycra and spandex that enhances the overall performance. With this in mind, neoprene isn't indestructible and small tears and rips can occur either from pulling at the neoprene when entering/removing the wetsuit or catching the material with a nail or similar sharp object. When wetsuits are left in a damp state after use for long periods of time this can weaken the material and seams, leaving the wetsuit more susceptible to damage.
With the right equipment rips and nicks can be repaired easily and with basic materials. Firstly you will need a urethane adhesive sealant that can be bought in a wetsuit repair kit from your local surf shop or they are readily available to purchase on-line. Failing this a bike puncture repair kit contains a similar adhesive that will do the job.
- Locate the rip and make sure this is clean and dry on both sides. Fold this area over so the sides of the rip are visible.
- With a brush or spatula apply a thin layer of adhesive to both sides of the rip and keep the tear open with your hands until the adhesive has dried, usually 1-3 minutes.
- Once the adhesive has dried, the two sides can be pressed together and sealed to form a strong bond. Apply pressure by pinching this area to make sure the bond is strong enough.
- Leave the wetsuit for 4 to 6 hours for the bond to completely dry. The wetsuit is now as good as new and ready for your next session.