How to repair a wetsuit
- Clean your wetsuit. Make sure your wetsuit is clean and dry. Check for dirt, sand, or other debris. ...
- Open up the tear. Locate the tear in your wetsuit. ...
- Apply the wetsuit sealant. Apply a thin and even layer of your adhesive of choice to both surfaces. Keep the cut open while the adhesive is drying.
- Let the glue dry. The adhesive will take a few minutes to dry, so continue to keep the two side separated. ...
- Bring both sides of the tear together. Now you can flatten out the wetsuit and bring together both sides of the tear.
- WETSUIT TEAR IS REPAIRED! If it’s race morning and you discover this tear and need to repair it, you can immediately use the wetsuit.
Can a wetsuit be repaired?
If you do decide to take on the repair job yourself, always make sure the suit is completely dry before starting. Wetsuit repair materials are designed to be applied to dry neoprene, so lay the suit flat until completely dry before starting the repair process.
How to fix wetsuit holes and rips?
2 More Ways to Fix Wetsuit Holes, Rips and Tears: Alternatively, you can use a Neoprene Queen neoprene patch kit. The package includes a neoprene rubber patch and 2 small tubes of black contact adhesive. Many people also like Neo-Rez because it dries fast.
How do you fix a wetsuit tear?
The most common wetsuit tears occur in the neoprene and the rubber. For both cases, there are simple solutions. In the first case, you'll need to re-attach the neoprene panels. You'll only need wetsuit cement, glue-on seam tape, floss, and a needle.
How do you glue a wetsuit back together?
Fold the wetsuit over at the point of the cut so that the cut opens up to reveal the two surfaces that need to be glued back together. Apply a thin, even layer of the cement or adhesive to both surfaces.
Can you fix a hole in a wetsuit?
Large Wetsuit Holes You will need to make sure the wetsuit has been turned inside out. Cut the neoprene to size and ensure that it is slightly bigger than the tear itself. Glue the neoprene patch to the hole as previously instructed. Use a form of weight to press down over the suit to reinforce the glue as it dries.
How do I fix my wetsuit patch?
0:143:11How To: Patch Neoprene - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWith a rip or tear you'll want to apply two thin coats of a net seal cement to either side of theMoreWith a rip or tear you'll want to apply two thin coats of a net seal cement to either side of the tear. Wait five to 10 minutes and then push both sides of the tear back.
What can I use to repair wetsuit?
Use Contact Cement for Incredibly Stretchy RepairsLocate all rips in your wetsuit, gloves, booties, etc. ... Apply the Aquaseal NEO onto both sides of the tear.Let the cement dry for five minutes.Apply a second coat of the adhesive and let dry for 10 minutes.More items...
How do you fix a hole in a wetsuit seam?
2:434:21How to repair a wetsuit torn seam - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTake the glue on seam tape and paint the rubberized side of the tape not the cloth. Side. Allow bothMoreTake the glue on seam tape and paint the rubberized side of the tape not the cloth. Side. Allow both to dry this takes about 10. Minutes apply a second coat of glue to the inside seam.
How do you sew a tear in a wetsuit?
A torn seam repair is quick and easy:Apply glue to both edges and allow it to dry for 10 minutes;Apply a second layer and allow it to cure for 2 minutes;Lay the wetsuit on a flat surface and push the seams together evenly;Sew a blind stitch with dental floss. ... Add a glue-on seam tape to the inside of the wetsuit;More items...
How much does wetsuit repair cost?
Fixing a rip, tear, or hole in your wetsuit is actually really easy, and it only costs about $5-$10.
How do you use neoprene glue?
0:231:50Wetsuit Repair Using Neoprene Queen Repair Adhesive - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow align the two edges and firmly press them together and then keep pushing them together for aMoreNow align the two edges and firmly press them together and then keep pushing them together for a minute while the glue dries.
Can you iron on patches on neoprene?
With Tenacious Tape Neoprene Patch, fixing rips, holes and tears on anything made of neoprene is simple. Formerly known as Iron Mend, just cut patch to size and use a household iron to create a permanent repair to waders, wetsuits, boots and gloves.
How long does a wetsuit last?
4 years to 10 yearsOn average, a good wetsuit from a quality manufacturer should last anywhere from 4 years to 10 years or more, depending on heavily you use it. A cheaper brand wetsuit that doesn't have the same construction quality may only last for a season or two before things like zippers become issues.
What thread is used for wetsuits?
bonded nylon sewing threadsNeoprene puts considerable strain on thread during the production of wetsuits, easily roughening the finish and making it look grey if improperly applied. To prevent this, we recommend using bonded nylon sewing threads.
Can you stitch neoprene?
What stitch to use? You can definitely use a straight stitch when sewing with neoprene. However, if you're doing it in a butted seam you might want to do a zigzag stitch to make sure that you're choosing a slightly longer stitch such as a three or three point five.
How do you apply wetsuit seam tape?
0:171:06Tenacious Tape Iron-On Neoprene Patch by GEAR AID - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipCut the patch and place over the damaged area cover the patch with the heat shielding paper andMoreCut the patch and place over the damaged area cover the patch with the heat shielding paper and press down on the iron. And hold rotate the iron and repeat.
Can you iron on patches on neoprene?
With Tenacious Tape Neoprene Patch, fixing rips, holes and tears on anything made of neoprene is simple. Formerly known as Iron Mend, just cut patch to size and use a household iron to create a permanent repair to waders, wetsuits, boots and gloves.
How do you use neoprene glue?
0:231:50Wetsuit Repair Using Neoprene Queen Repair Adhesive - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow align the two edges and firmly press them together and then keep pushing them together for aMoreNow align the two edges and firmly press them together and then keep pushing them together for a minute while the glue dries.
How do you get a dent out of neoprene?
For stubborn creases, stretch the neoprene out on a flat surface like a table or floor, smooth the material with your hands, and wait 24 hours. If that doesn't work, gently stretch the material. Keep it pulled taut for at least 24 hours to allow the material to breathe and release the creases.
How do you restore neoprene?
For a rip or tear in your neoprene apply two thin coats of the Gear Aid Aquaseal+NEO Contact Cement to the edges of the tear. Wait 5–10 minutes, then press the edges together. If this is in a high-stress area, you'll want to reinforce the repair with a patch.
How long does it take for a seal to dry?
You should find that the seal dries within 2-3mins, but the seal will form more fully if you allow it to dry for at least 6hrs. The best option would be to allow it to dry overnight to allow the strongest seal possible to form.
How to apply neoprene glue?
Apply a first coat of neoprene adhesive to both surfaces (find online). The glue can be applied with a short bristle brush. Do not press the sides together.
What causes a wetsuit zipper to get stuck?
Stuck Zipper. Sand and salt water can cause a wetsuit zipper to rebel, so keeping the suit clean is the first line of defense against a stuck zipper. If the issue persists, skip harsh household lubricants like WD-40, which can both disintegrate wetsuit material and collect sand, making the issue worse.
How to get salt smell out of wetsuit?
For basic cleaning needs, a mild detergent soap like Jaws Slosh Wetsuit Shampoo ($8.48, jawsproducts.com) should do the trick for removing salt residue and odors. More persistent odors, like urine or mold, should be treated with an enzyme-based formulation like Revivex ($8.95, Gearaid.com ). Gently agitate the wetsuit in the water/shampoo mix, then let soak for at least 24 hours. Rinse several times, and let dry.
How long does it take for a neoprene suit to seal?
Once cooled, turn the suit right-side out and use cement to seal the neoprene side. “Be sure to let it sit for about 20 minutes before tugging on it to see that it’s completely sealed,” says Suddarth. “If you notice any areas where it is still open and exposed, reapply more of the cement.”.
Can you hang a wetsuit over a bike?
Don’t hang your wetsuit over your bike. “We see lots of arms and legs of suits get torn up in the bike chains and pedals,” says Suddarth. To keep the suit fresh and pliable (and hopefully avoid wetsuit repair), always rinse your suit in fresh water after a swim.
Is a wetsuit cheap?
Wetsuits are not cheap, so don’t try to repair them with lower quality substitutes,” warns Suddarth. “Fix your wetsuit properly and you can get years out of your investment.”
Can you put a wetsuit in the washing machine?
And persistent. It should go without saying, but just in case: Don’t put your wetsuit in the washing machine. Ever. Instead, all cleaning should be done in a bathtub or large bucket.
Can you repair a wetsuit?
If you do decide to take on the repair job yourself, always make sure the suit is completely dry before starting. Wetsuit repair materials are designed to be applied to dry neoprene, so lay the suit flat until completely dry before starting the repair process.
Supply List
This supply list is for all the small repair jobs that will be reviewed in this article.
Clean & Dry Your Wetsuit First!
It is super important to make sure your wetsuit is clean and completely dry before attempting to make repairs. Most people skip this step. I have made this mistake before and it didn’t turn out well.
1. Wetsuit Damage: Ripped Seams
Ripped, torn or separated seams are one of the most common types of wetsuit damage.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Repair Ripped Seams
Your wetsuit needs to be clean and fully dried. I am going to repeat myself often on this important step.
2. Wetsuit Damage: Cuts or Tears
Cuts or tears are a common type of wetsuit damage and could be caused by a lot of different things including: fin slices, wear and tear, stress tears while taking it on/off or damage while not in use.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Repair Cuts or Tears
As mentioned previously, make sure your wetsuit is clean and completely dry.
3. Wetsuit Damage: Holes
Small holes or abrasion damage can occur to the outer layer of your wetsuit. I usually get this type of damage from rocks etc. Typically, the damage isn’t all the way through.
How much does it cost to repair a wetsuit?
In fact, the whole process only takes a few minutes. Considering that wetsuit repair kits only cost between $15-25, it makes sense to fix a hole rather than spend hundreds of dollars on a new suit.
How big is a patch for a wetsuit?
Note: Typically, I cut patches about 1/2-1″ larger than the wetsuit hole to provide sufficient support. In addition, I give the patch round edges so it doesn’t have corners that peel back.
What is included in a Neoprene Queen patch kit?
Alternatively, you can use a Neoprene Queen neoprene patch kit. The package includes a neoprene rubber patch and 2 small tubes of black contact adhesive.
Can you use wetsuit glue to repair a hole?
I definitely recommend using some cheap disposable gloves while working with it. 2. You don’t need much adhesive to repair a wetsuit hole. However, sometimes the smaller tubes only have a one-time use.
Is Neo-Rez a good wetsuit sealant?
In addition, Neo-Rez feels more soft and supple than other wetsuit adhesives, which can sometimes feel a little rough or scratchy on the skin. This sealant has a clear color. Whether you paddleboard, surf, swim, waterski or dive, these wetsuit repair kits can work for you.
How much does it cost to fix a wetsuit?
Fixing a rip, tear, or hole in your wetsuit is actually really easy, and it only costs about $5-$10.
How to repair a ripped neoprene?
If the hole/tear is small enough (like the one in my video), all you need is the cement. “Paint” the cement onto each edge of the ripped neoprene, and press the edges together for a few minutes.
How long does it take for neoprene to dry?
Wait 5-10 minutes for it to dry, and apply another coat. I recommend using at least 3 coats of cement, because the neoprene soaks up a lot of it.
Can you put a bag over your feet before you put on a wetsuit?
If you put a plastic grocery bag over your feet before sliding into your wetsuit, it will allow your feet to slip through a lot easier than without a bag. Especially if your suit is wet.
Can you use regular thread to seal a rip?
You can use regular thread, or dental floss. The dental floss will last longer, but thread should work fine too because you are putting the sealant over it. Sew the rip (great for bonding time with Mom) and put a few coats of the cement over each side of the rip. Let the cement cure overnight. YouTube.
How to repair a wetsuit seam?
A torn seam repair is quick and easy: 1. Apply glue to both edges and allow it to dry for 10 minutes; 2. Apply a second layer and allow it to cure for 2 minutes; 3. Lay the wetsuit on a flat surface and push the seams together evenly;
What is the most common wetsuit tear?
The most common wetsuit tears occur in the neoprene and the rubber. For both cases, there are simple solutions. In the first case, you'll need to re-attach the neoprene panels.
How long does it take for neoprene to dry?
Let it dry for 8 hours; If you've damaged the rubber, buy wetsuit cement, floss, and a needle. Here's what you should do: 1. Apply the neoprene cement to both sides of the seam; 2. Add the first coat and wait 5 minutes; 3. Add a second coat and wait 10 minutes;
Do stitches lose strength?
With time, stitches will lose their strength and open, but that doesn't mean you need to buy a new wetsuit.
