Alder Impact Wetsuit - 3/2mm - Blue - UK 18

The Alder Impact Women's 3/2mm Wetsuit is designed for women seeking an affordable yet high-perfor...

Best current price£89.95from Bob Gnarly Surf

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Bob Gnarly SurfAlder Impact Women's 3/2Mm Back Zip Full Length Wetsuit Female Blue Size Uk 18
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£89.95
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RackhamsAlder Women's Blue Impact 3/2Mm Back Zip Full Length Wetsuit - Uk 18
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£93.95
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Product Information

Full details

The Alder Impact Women's 3/2mm Wetsuit in Blue, size UK 18, is designed for female watersports enthusiasts seeking an affordable yet high-performance option. It offers excellent warmth, flexibility, and comfort for activities like surfing, open water swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking in UK conditions. While providing great value and essential features for extended water time, users should be aware that this 3/2mm thickness is best suited for milder water temperatures and may require layering or a thicker suit for colder conditions.

All features

ColourBlue
MaterialNylon
Dress Size UK18
BrandAlder

Extended Product Information

FAQs

What does 3/2mm mean for a wetsuit?

It indicates the thickness of the neoprene. 3mm thick neoprene is used on the torso for maximum warmth, while 2mm thick neoprene is used on the arms and legs for greater flexibility and freedom of movement.

What is the ideal water temperature for this wetsuit?

This 3/2mm wetsuit is typically suitable for water temperatures ranging from 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F), common in the UK from late spring to early autumn.

How do I ensure the best fit?

The wetsuit should feel snug all over, without any major wrinkles or baggy areas. It should allow you to move but feel like a second skin. The neck seal should be comfortable but prevent water from entering.

Can I machine wash my wetsuit?

No, never machine wash or tumble dry your wetsuit. Always rinse with fresh, cold water after use and occasionally wash by hand with a wetsuit shampoo.

Is this wetsuit suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Alder Impact is an excellent choice for beginners due to its affordability, comfort, and essential features like protective kneepads and flexible neoprene.

How do I care for the back zip?

After rinsing, ensure the zip is clean and free of sand or salt. Occasionally, you can apply a silicone-based zip lubricant to keep it running smoothly. Avoid forcing a stuck zip.

Will this wetsuit keep me warm in winter?

A 3/2mm wetsuit is generally not warm enough for winter water temperatures in the UK. For colder conditions, you would need a thicker wetsuit, such as a 4/3mm or 5/4mm, possibly with a hood and boots.

Troubleshooting

Wetsuit feels too tight and restricts breathing.

Ensure you have the correct size. A wetsuit should be snug but not constricting. Try a larger size if breathing is difficult. Ensure the back zip is fully closed and the neck seal is not too tight.

Water flushing into the wetsuit, making it cold.

Check that the neck seal is sitting correctly against the skin. Ensure the wetsuit fits snugly in the armpits and crotch. If flushing is severe, consider a wetsuit with a better sealing system or a thicker suit for colder conditions.

Chafing or irritation during wear.

Rinse the wetsuit thoroughly to remove any manufacturing residues. Ensure the flatlock seams are not positioned in high-friction areas. Consider wearing a rash vest underneath for added protection.

Neoprene showing signs of damage (cracking, tearing).

Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or excessive heat, as this can degrade the neoprene. Store the wetsuit properly (away from creases and sharp objects). Minor nicks can sometimes be repaired with neoprene glue, but significant damage may require replacement.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Affordable price point offering excellent value.
  • Good flexibility in the arms and shoulders for ease of movement.
  • Provides adequate warmth for spring, summer, and early autumn in the UK.
  • Durable construction with protective kneepads.
  • Designed specifically for women's fit and comfort.

Cons

  • 3/2mm thickness is not sufficient for very cold water temperatures.
  • May not offer the same advanced features as higher-end wetsuits.
  • Back zip entry can sometimes be more challenging to manage independently compared to front zips.
  • Durability might be less than premium, more expensive models over many years of heavy use.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup:

  1. Getting Dressed: Ensure the wetsuit is dry. Step into the legs and pull up evenly. For the arms, feed them through one at a time, bunching the neoprene slightly before pulling over your hands. Carefully pull the suit up to your waist, ensuring no major wrinkles. Finally, reach back and pull the zip cord to close the back zip. The smooth skin neck seal should sit comfortably against your neck.
  2. Fit Check: A wetsuit should fit snugly like a second skin. It should not be baggy anywhere, especially around the torso, crotch, and armpits. A snug fit is crucial for insulation as it traps a thin layer of water that your body heats up.

Compatibility:

  • Water Temperature: This 3/2mm wetsuit is best suited for water temperatures between 14°C and 20°C (57°F - 68°F). For colder water, consider a 4/3mm or 5/4mm wetsuit.
  • Activities: Compatible with surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, open water swimming, and general watersports during appropriate temperatures.

Care:

  • Rinsing: Always rinse your wetsuit thoroughly with fresh, cold water after every use, inside and out. This removes salt, sand, and chlorine that can degrade the neoprene.
  • Washing: Occasionally, wash the wetsuit with a wetsuit-specific shampoo. Do not use regular detergents, bleach, or fabric softeners.
  • Drying: Dry the wetsuit flat or hanging on a wide, padded hanger away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid wringing or machine washing/drying.
  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, ideally hanging on a wide hanger to avoid creases. Do not store folded for extended periods.

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