Winter Surfing in the UK: Wetsuits, Boots, Gloves and Gear Guide | Circle One Surf Co
Winter is when UK surf conditions are often the best. The swells are bigger, the lineups are quieter and the light is brilliant (for those budding surf photographers out there). The only thing standing between most people and a winter surf is being cold, and that's mostly a kit problem. Get the right gear and winter sessions become some of the best of the year.
Sea temperatures around the UK drop to their lowest in late winter, often somewhere around 8 to 10°C in the south-west and colder further north and east. The air temperature and wind chill make a big difference to how cold it feels, so a windy 8°C day is much harsher than a calm one.
The good news is that modern winter wetsuits are very good. You don't need to be tough, you just need to be properly equipped.
1. The wetsuit
This is where to put most of your budget.
- Thickness: for UK winter, most surfers use a thick full-length wetsuit, typically in the 5/4/3mm range. The first number is the thickness in the torso, the others are the arms and legs.
- Fit: a wetsuit that's too loose lets cold water flush through and feels freezing. It should be snug without restricting your shoulders or breathing.
- Seams: sealed and taped seams make a big difference in cold water.
- Warm lining: thermal linings dry quickly and add warmth without much weight.
Browse our men's wetsuits, women's wetsuits and kids' wetsuits, or read our full winter wetsuit buying guide.
2. Boots
Cold feet end sessions early. Winter boots are usually 5mm thick, in a round-toe or split-toe design. Round toe is the warmer option. Split toe gives better board feel. Make sure they're snug, as loose boots fill with water.
3. Gloves
Your hands are often the first part to go numb. Winter gloves in the 3mm to 5mm range keep your grip and paddle strength going for far longer. Shop our wetsuit gloves here.
4. Hood
A lot of body heat leaves through your head, and cold water on your ears can also cause discomfort and ice-cream headaches. A neoprene hood solves both and makes a surprising difference to how long you can stay out.
See all wetsuit gloves, hoods and accessories and wetsuit boots and socks.
5. A thermal layer
A rash vest or thermal top under your wetsuit adds a little extra warmth and cuts down on rubbing. Browse our rash vests and thermal layers.
6. Wax made for cold water
Cold-water wax is softer and stays grippy at low temperatures. We stock Rad Wax, a plant-based surf wax with no paraffin or limestone, and made to stay grippy and last.
7. The bit after the surf
You can have the best wetsuit in the world and still end up miserable if you have to get changed in the wind. A big changing robe or poncho lets you get out of a wet suit and into dry clothes without freezing. A flask of something hot is a bonus.
Have a look at our robes and ponchos. We currently have an offer on our premium changing robes, just £60 when you use code CHANGINGROBE and you buy any other product.
Winter safety basics
- Surf with a friend or tell someone where you're going and when you'll be back.
- Check the forecast, tide and conditions before you go.
- Mind the daylight. Winter days are short.
- Know your limits. Cold water saps strength and reactions faster than you'd think.
- Warm up properly afterwards, and don't skip it just because you feel okay.
Quick winter checklist
- Winter wetsuit (5/4mm or thicker)
- Boots, gloves and hood
- Thermal vest (optional)
- Cold-water wax
- Changing robe or poncho
- Flask, towel and warm dry clothes
Winter surfing isn't about being tough, it's about being warm. Get the wetsuit and accessories right and you'll find yourself looking forward to the cold-water sessions rather than dreading them.
