OK. You’ve taken the next step to prove your love, and your heart palpitates at the thought of your next date. You know it’s more than puppy love… more than a phase… and you have the neoprene to prove it.
Surfing can be like that. It starts as a crush and then you find yourself falling head over heels… with salt water being forced up your nose. Ah-h-h! The thrill and the agony!
Spending your whole paycheck (next time find a wetsuit sale and save a few, playa) on a surf wetsuit is kinda like placing a promise ring on a girl’s finger. It shows a new level of commitment. And, just like you darn well better remember to bring her flowers once in a while (or at least wash her car for her), you have to remember to give some TLC to your wetsuit, too.
Like an incessantly grumpy girlfriend, neglected neoprene can start to stink after awhile. Sweat and body oils take their toll if you do not routinely freshen your gear with wetsuit shampoo, rinsing it thoroughly – by hand – with fresh cold water. Do NOT use the washing machine on your precious surf gear.
Urinating in your wetsuit should be avoided. “Nobody will know” is bit of self-deception that will be revealed when you start walking around with a cloud of cat-box rankness following you.
The same goes for leaving your sandy wetsuit wadded up in the trunk of your car over the weekend. “A few days won’t matter” is another line we feed ourselves, but once again the odor gremlins will turn you in. “Sour dog” is not a sexy smell.
Surf wetsuits need to be washed and hung up to dry in the shade. Never be tempted to put your wetsuit near a beach bonfire, on a radiator at home or in the clothes dryer.
Consider getting a commercial wetsuit dryer, which will speed up drying time and reduce the potential for funkiness. There are even models that plug into your car adaptor to get your suit dry before you get back to your condo. Your roommate will thank you.
Repair small nicks and tears with neoprene adhesive, following product instructions carefully and adhering to wetsuit warranty guidelines. Doctor zippers with appropriate lubricants and treat your gear with UV ray sprays if recommended. Then store your wetsuit in a dry setting with good air circulation.
With a little care and tenderness, you should be able to enjoy many happy years together. Let the love begin.
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