How to Dry a Wakeboarding Wetsuit
Why Proper Drying Matters for Your Wetsuit
A wakeboarding wetsuit is an investment that deserves care. Proper drying isn't just about convenience, it's about extending the life of your suit and keeping it in peak condition. When you leave a wetsuit damp or crumpled in a bag, mildew and mold can develop, creating odors and breaking down the neoprene faster. Salt water and chlorine also need to be rinsed out and dried thoroughly to prevent material degradation. The good news? Drying a wakeboarding wetsuit is straightforward once you know the right approach. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure your suit stays supple, odor-free, and ready for your next water adventure. This guide walks you through the best practices for drying your wetsuit so it performs as well as the day you bought it.
5 Steps to Properly Dry Your Wakeboarding Wetsuit
Rinse immediately after use. Fresh water is your first line of defense. Rinse your wetsuit inside and out with cool fresh water to remove salt, chlorine, and debris. Gently squeeze the water through the material rather than wringing it out, which can damage the neoprene fibers and stretch the suit.
Hang it in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Find a spot with good air circulation but away from direct sunlight, which can degrade neoprene and cause fading. Hang your suit on a wide hanger or over a rail so it doesn't crease, and position it so air can flow on both sides.
Avoid high heat sources. Never place your wetsuit near radiators, heaters, or in direct sunlight. High temperatures warp neoprene and can cause permanent damage. Room temperature or cool outdoor shade is ideal for drying your wakeboarding wetsuit.
Flip it periodically during drying. After a few hours, flip your suit or rotate it so the other side gets air exposure. This ensures even drying and prevents moisture from being trapped in folds or seams where mildew can grow.
Store it only when completely dry. Allow at least 24 hours of drying time before putting your wetsuit away. Storing a damp suit creates the perfect environment for odors and mold. Once fully dry, hang it in a cool closet or roll it loosely for storage.
Best Practices for Long-Term Wetsuit Care
Beyond drying, a few extra habits keep your wakeboarding wetsuit in excellent condition. After rinsing, consider using a specialized wetsuit cleaner to remove stubborn salt deposits and bacteria that cause odors. Avoid fabric softeners and regular detergents, which break down neoprene. If you notice any small tears or loose seams, repair them promptly to prevent water from seeping in during your next session. Store your suit away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Many riders invest in a quality drying rack or hanger designed specifically for wetsuits, which speeds up the process and keeps your suit properly shaped. Rotating between two suits, if possible, gives each one more drying time and extends overall lifespan. The effort you put into proper drying and storage pays dividends in how long your suit lasts and how comfortable it feels every time you put it on.
Common Questions
How long does it take to dry a wakeboarding wetsuit completely?
A properly hung wetsuit typically takes 24 to 48 hours to dry completely, depending on humidity, temperature, and air circulation. In warm, breezy conditions, it may dry faster. In cooler or more humid climates, it may take longer. Never rush the process by using heat sources, as this damages the neoprene.
Can I machine wash my wetsuit?
No, machine washing is too harsh for wetsuits. Instead, rinse thoroughly with cool fresh water by hand. If needed, use a gentle wetsuit-specific cleaner and rinse again. Hand washing preserves the integrity of the neoprene and seams far better than any washing machine.
What should I do if my wetsuit smells bad?
Odor usually comes from bacteria or mildew growing in damp material. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water, then soak in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water for 30 minutes. Rinse again and dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Store it dry and ensure it dries fully before putting it away.
Is it okay to hang my wetsuit on a thin hanger?
Thin hangers can create creases and stress points in the fabric. Use a wide, padded hanger or hang it over a thick rail instead. This distributes weight evenly and prevents permanent indentations in the neoprene that can affect fit and comfort.
Can I speed up drying with a fan or hair dryer?
A fan on low speed placed nearby is fine and can improve air circulation. Never use a hair dryer or direct heat, which damages neoprene. Stick to passive air drying in a shaded, ventilated space for the safest results.
What's the best way to store a dry wetsuit?
Hang it on a wide hanger in a cool closet away from sunlight and heat sources. If space is limited, you can loosely roll it, but hanging is preferred because it maintains shape and prevents creases. Keep it in a dry environment away from moisture.
Make Drying Easier with the Right Gear
Properly drying your wakeboarding wetsuit doesn't have to be complicated, but having the right tools makes it faster and more effective. A dedicated wetsuit drying rack keeps your suit properly shaped while air circulates on all sides, cutting drying time and preventing wrinkles. The Drip Suit is designed specifically for this purpose, with an easy-hang design and integrated hooks for booties and gloves. It works with any vehicle and any wetsuit size, so you can dry your gear right after you get off the water.
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