How to choose the right combination (Part 1)
The first criterion for choosing a wetsuit is water temperature. Water temperature varies according to location and time of year. So always make sure that the water temperature at your spot corresponds to the recommended temperature range: Waters above 21°C. Water between 17 and 22°C. Water between 12 and 17°C. Water between 7 and 12°C. Consult seatemperature.org to find out the temperature of your spot.
How to choose the right combination (Part 2)
The 2nd criterion to consider is the duration of your sessions. If your sessions last less than an hour, the 100 models are ideal. For up to 2 hours, choose a 500 model, and for up to 3 hours, a 900 model. Compared to 100 models, 500 models will limit fatigue more (+ freedom of movement) and limit irritation better. The same applies to 900 models compared to 500 models.
NB: 900 models are easier to put on.
Choosing the right size
To get the most out of your wetsuit, you need to choose the right size. A wetsuit should fit snugly and there should be no visible creases. When dry, it's normal to feel too tight, but this discomfort disappears as soon as the wetsuit gets wet. If you choose a wetsuit that's too big, wrinkles will form and chafing will occur.
Materials
This OLAIAN 500 4/3 mm wetsuit is made of genuine Neoprene for maximum comfort.
The Neoprene is lined with synthetic textile for greater resistance to wear and tear.
Neoprene thickness: 4mm and 3 mm.
The Neoprene is composed of an elastomer foam with insulating properties.
We test and guarantee the quality of our Neoprene materials.
Collar
The collar finish has been designed to limit irritation. Depending on individual sensitivity, a UV top can be worn under the suit to limit the risk of irritation. We also recommend applying a greasy cream (e.g. Vaseline) to rubbing areas (neck, armpits) during long periods of use. Make sure you position the flap correctly inside the suit to limit any risk of irritation with the zip and collar.
Closing
Our zips and fasteners are laboratory-tested to ensure resistance to salt water. We position the zipper at the rear of the suit for greater comfort when practicing board sports (lying down while rowing). What's more, the 4/3 500 features a water barrier under the back zip to limit water ingress!
Sealed assembly
The seams are sewn and glued to guarantee watertightness. The seam is blind, i.e. the thread does not go through the entire thickness of the neoprene, thus preventing water from passing through. The absence of threads on the inside prevents chafing. Internal comfort and reinforcement patches are placed at sensitive points.
Key pocket
A key pocket is located under the zip flap.
Anti-irritation cut
We designed this product with seamless panels under the arms to limit irritation from repeated rowing movements in board sports.
Stay warmer longer with thermal accessories! There's something for every temperature range...
When we're in the water, we lose more than half our body heat through our extremities (feet, hands, head). We therefore recommend the following accessories:
- in water (>17°C) => neoprene socks.
- in water (12 - 17°C): high booties and gloves.
- in water (7 - 12°C): high booties, gloves, balaclava and balaclava top.
Multi-sport wetsuits
Our wetsuits are designed to meet the needs of the most demanding surfers. Our design choices also make them compatible with other water sports such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, wakeboarding, water skiing, longe-côte and SUP (stand-up paddle).
What is the OLAIAN brand?
OLAIANDECATHLON'S SURF BRAND
Based in Hendaye, in the south-west of France, OLAIAN is Decathlon's surf brand. In our "feet in the water" offices, we can design a wetsuit in a single day, then test it in real-life conditions.
