4/3mm & 5/4mm Wetsuits

Stay in the water longer with the SALT Of The Sea collection of 4/3mm and 5/4mm wetsuits, specifically engineered for cold-water performance. Designed for those who don't let a drop in temperature stop their session, these thicker suits provide the thermal insulation required for winter swells, deep reef explorations, and early morning starts. Whether you are searching for high-performance Men’s Wetsuits or durable Women’s Wetsuits, our cold-water range balances superior warmth with the flexibility needed for surfing, spearfishing, and freediving in Australia’s most challenging conditions.

What is this wetsuit page best for?

This page is the ultimate destination for watermen and women requiring maximum thermal protection. These suits are best suited for winter conditions in southern Australia, including Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and Southern WA. If you are a dedicated diver or surfer who spends extended hours in water temperatures below 18°C, our 4/3mm and 5/4mm options provide the necessary barrier against the cold. This collection also features specialised Diving Gear and Spearfishing Wetsuits designed to maintain core warmth during low-activity immersion.

Choosing the right thickness

Selecting between a 4/3mm and 5/4mm wetsuit depends on your location, the season, and your personal cold tolerance:

• 4/3mm Wetsuits: Ideal for water temperatures between 14–19°C. This is the versatile choice for NSW South Coast winters, Victorian autumns/springs, and southern Queensland mid-winters. It offers a great balance of warmth and mobility.
• 5/4mm Wetsuits: Recommended for cold to very cold water ranging from 10–15°C. These are essential for Victorian winters, South Australia, and Tasmania. The extra millimetre in the torso helps retain vital core heat during long sessions.

Warmth, stretch and durability

At SALT Of The Sea, we build our cold-water Wetsuits using premium GBS (Glued and Blind-Stitched) seam construction. This technique ensures seams are watertight, significantly reducing cold water flush. Our Element series often features a two-piece design with overlapping torso panels to further enhance the thermal seal. While these suits are thicker, we use high-grade limestone neoprene to ensure they remain flexible enough for high-performance surfing while being rugged enough to withstand the abrasive environments encountered during spearfishing and reef exploration.

FAQs

Is a 4/3mm wetsuit warm enough for a Victorian winter?

For many surfers in Victoria, a high-quality 4/3mm suit with GBS seams is sufficient for most of the year. However, during the peak of winter (June to August) or for divers spending long periods submerged, a 5/4mm suit is often preferred to maintain core temperature and extend session times.

What is the benefit of a two-piece cold-water wetsuit?

Our two-piece designs, often found in our spearfishing and diving ranges, provide a double layer of neoprene over the torso. This significantly increases warmth where you need it most while allowing for a better custom fit and easier changing compared to traditional one-piece winter suits.

How should a 5/4mm wetsuit fit compared to a thinner suit?

Because the neoprene is thicker, a 5/4mm suit may feel slightly more restrictive on land. However, it should still fit like a second skin. Ensure there are no large pockets of air under the arms or at the small of the back, as these will trap water and cause you to lose heat.

How do I dry a thick 4/3mm or 5/4mm wetsuit quickly?

Thicker suits hold more water and take longer to dry. Always rinse with fresh water first, then hang the suit doubled over a wide-shouldered hanger in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Never leave it in direct sunlight, as UV rays can degrade the neoprene and reduce the suit's lifespan.

Looking for gear for the whole family? Explore our Kids Wetsuits for younger adventurers or browse our full range of Spearfishing Wetsuits for targeted underwater performance.