Wetsuits are a crucial part of any ocean adventurer’s gear, but even the highest quality suits can eventually suffer wear and tear. Whether it’s a small tear, damaged seams, or a broken zipper, repairing your wetsuit can extend its lifespan and save money. But beyond that, it’s also a sustainable choice. In this article, we’ll walk you through the most practical ways to repair your wetsuit, why it’s important, and when to consider investing in an eco-friendly upgrade.
Why Repairing Your Wetsuit Matters
For ocean enthusiasts, sustainability is key. Neoprene, the material used in most wetsuits, is not biodegradable and has a significant environmental footprint. Throwing away a wetsuit just because of a few tears only adds to the waste problem. By repairing your wetsuit, you’re not only saving money but also helping reduce the demand for new materials.
However, if your suit is beyond repair or nearing the end of its life, it might be time to consider an eco-friendly alternative, such as Patagonia’s Yulex® wetsuits, which are made from sustainable rubber and are 100% neoprene-free. Alternatively, Patagonia offers a second-hand option through their Worn Wear program, where you can purchase pre-loved Yulex® wetsuits. These suits are fully functional but may show signs of wear and repair.
Tools You’ll Need
Before getting started, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Wetsuit cement (for small tears)
- Aquaseal or Neoprene glue (for patches)
- Scissors (to trim damaged neoprene)
- Seam tape (for reinforcing or repairing damaged seams)
- Neoprene patches (to cover larger areas)
- Nylon thread and needle (for stitching seams)
- Zipper repair kit (if your zipper is the problem)
These tools are easily available online or at your local dive shop, and they’re often much cheaper than buying a brand-new wetsuit.
Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing a Wetsuit
1. Fixing Tears and Holes
For minor tears (usually under 2 inches), wetsuit cement or neoprene glue is your best friend. Here’s how to do it:
- Clean the area: Use fresh water and let it dry completely.
- Apply the glue: Spread a small amount on both sides of the tear.
- Press the sides together: Hold firmly for a few minutes.
- Let it cure: Allow 24 hours for the glue to fully set.
For larger tears, reinforce the area with neoprene patches after applying the glue.
2. Repairing Seams
If you notice your wetsuit’s seams are coming apart, you can use seam tape or a needle and nylon thread to sew it up:
- Trim loose threads: Use scissors to cut away any excess or frayed fabric.
- Sew the seam: Use small, even stitches with strong nylon thread.
- Apply seam tape: For extra durability, press seam tape over the stitching and seal it with a seam iron or by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Fixing the Zipper
A faulty zipper doesn’t have to mean the end of your wetsuit. Try these steps:
- Clean the zipper: Use fresh water to rinse out sand or salt, and apply zipper wax if it’s sticking.
- Replace broken teeth: Use a zipper repair kit to replace any missing teeth.
- Check the slider: If the slider doesn’t grip, you might need to replace it.
Sustainability Tip: Repair or Replace?
When it comes to sustainability, it’s always best to repair what you already own. Even though eco-friendly wetsuits like Patagonia’s Yulex® are a more sustainable option, buying a new suit comes with its own environmental cost. The production of wetsuits, even eco-designed ones, requires resources. The most eco-friendly choice is to repair your wetsuit as much as possible and then consider upgrading to an eco-friendly alternative only when it’s beyond repair.
Why Yulex®?
Patagonia’s Yulex® wetsuits are made from natural rubber, sourced from sustainable plantations. These wetsuits offer the same warmth and durability as traditional neoprene wetsuits but without the environmental harm of synthetic materials. Plus, they’re a great long-term investment for ocean enthusiasts who want to reduce their environmental footprint.
Tools to Help You Nail Your Wetsuit Repair
- Seam Grip or Aquaseal: Specialized adhesives for repairing wetsuits, making it easy to patch and seal tears.
- Patagonia Worn Wear Program: If your wetsuit is beyond repair, check out Patagonia’s program, which offers repairs on their gear and helps keep items in use longer.
- YouTube Instructionals: Channels like “The Wetsuit Centre” offer excellent step-by-step videos on wetsuit repair, making the process even easier to follow.
- Eco-friendly Repair Kits: Many companies now offer neoprene repair kits made from sustainable materials, helping you to extend the life of your gear without adding to the waste problem.
Conclusion: Repair Before You Replace
In the world of ocean conservation, every small action counts. Repairing your wetsuit is a simple but effective way to reduce waste and prolong the life of your gear. And while upgrading to an eco-friendly wetsuit is a great long-term goal, the most sustainable thing you can do right now is to repair what you already have.
For those of you looking to make the switch to more eco-conscious gear, Patagonia’s Yulex® wetsuits are an excellent choice when the time comes. But until then, grab your wetsuit glue and seam tape, and get to work repairing that gear!
