How to Dry Wetsuit Hood

Your wetsuit hood takes a beating. It's stretched over your head, exposed to salt water, sun, and constant moisture. If you don't dry it properly, you're looking at mildew, stiff neoprene, and a hood that smells like low tide. A properly dried wetsuit hood lasts longer, stays flexible, and keeps that musty funk away. The good news? Drying your hood isn't complicated, but it does require a bit of care and the right technique. We'll walk you through everything you need to know to keep your hood in top condition, whether you're a daily surfer or someone who suits up a few times a month. Proper drying is the difference between a hood that feels like a second skin and one that cracks and deteriorates after a season.

Most people think they're drying their wetsuit hood correctly, but small mistakes add up. Don't hang your hood in direct sunlight, even though it might dry faster. UV rays degrade neoprene and fade colors. Don't use a clothes dryer or heat gun, either. High heat warps the material and damages the glue that holds seams together. Another mistake? Storing your hood while it's still damp. That's how you get mildew that's nearly impossible to remove. Finally, don't hang your hood by the neck opening alone. This stretches the opening over time and makes the hood loose and uncomfortable. Instead, spread the weight across a proper drying rack or lay it flat on a clean surface if hanging isn't an option. The goal is to minimize stress on the material while letting air do the work.

How long does it take to dry a wetsuit hood completely?

Most wetsuit hoods take 24 to 48 hours to dry completely, depending on thickness and humidity. Thicker hoods (5mm or more) take longer than thinner ones. If your hood is still damp after two days, hang it for another 12 to 24 hours. Humidity and air circulation matter more than temperature. A breezy, shaded spot dries faster than a still, enclosed space.

Can I speed up the drying process?

Yes, but carefully. Increase air circulation by hanging your hood in a breezy location or using a fan nearby. Don't point the fan directly at the hood, as this can cause uneven drying. You can also hang it in a location with better ventilation. Never use a hair dryer, heat gun, or clothes dryer. Heat damages neoprene and seams permanently.

What if my hood smells after drying?

A smell usually means bacteria or mildew is growing. Rinse your hood with fresh water and a mild detergent designed for wetsuits, then dry it again in a sunny, well-ventilated spot. If the smell persists, soak the hood in a mixture of white vinegar and water (one part vinegar to four parts water) for 30 minutes, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. Prevention is easier than treatment, so always rinse and dry quickly after use.

Is it okay to store my hood while it's still slightly damp?

No. Storing a damp hood is one of the fastest ways to develop mildew and odor problems. Always wait until your hood is completely dry, even if it takes an extra day. A dry hood stored in a cool, dark place will last years. A damp one stored away can develop damage in just days.

Should I use a specific type of hanger for my wetsuit hood?

Yes. Use a thick wooden hanger, a padded hanger, or a dedicated wetsuit drying rack. Thin wire hangers cut into the neoprene and create permanent creases. Some people prefer laying their hoods flat on a clean, dry towel if hanging isn't an option. Whatever method you choose, make sure the weight is distributed evenly and there's no stress on the neck opening.

Can I dry my hood indoors?

You can, but it's not ideal. Indoors tend to be humid, which slows drying and encourages mildew. If you must dry indoors, hang your hood in the warmest, most ventilated room available, like a bathroom with a fan running or a laundry room with a window open. A garage with the door open is better than a closed room. Outdoors in shade is always the best option.