How to Dry Wetsuit Between Morning and Afternoon Sessions

How to Dry Your Wetsuit Between Sessions

Why Proper Drying Matters Between Sessions

When you're squeezing in back-to-back water sessions, the time between morning and afternoon swells is tight. Your wetsuit drying process during those few hours can make or break your comfort and the suit's longevity. A wet wetsuit left crumpled in your car develops odor, traps bacteria, and degrades the neoprene faster than you'd think. The good news is that you don't need hours of sunshine to dry your wetsuit between sessions. With the right technique and a few smart tools, you can have your suit ready to wear again and still fresh for your next paddle out. Proper drying between sessions also prevents mildew, extends your suit's lifespan by years, and keeps you comfortable when you suit up for round two.

Free Gift

Air Freshener Trio

$10.00 $0.00

Just pay shipping — enjoy a fresh ride on us!

5 Best Methods to Dry Your Wetsuit Fast

Hang it vertically in direct sun. Position your suit on a wide hanger or dedicated drying rack with the neck facing down so water drains from the shoulders. Place it in full sun if possible, even for just 30 minutes. This is the fastest method and works well on warm days. Rotate or flip it halfway through to dry both sides evenly.

Use an easy-hang drying system. A purpose-built wetsuit drying rack with integrated hooks holds your suit securely and lets air circulate all around it. These racks keep your booties and gloves organized in one spot too. They're compact enough to fit in your vehicle or garage between sessions.

Wring out excess water gently. Before hanging, gently squeeze water from the suit without twisting or wringing hard. Lay it flat on a towel and roll it up to absorb more moisture. This cuts drying time in half and reduces stress on the neoprene seams.

Position it near air flow. If sun isn't available, hang your suit in a breezy spot or near a fan. Even a car window cracked open while parked helps. Airflow is your friend when you're short on time. Avoid direct heat sources like radiators or car interiors that get too hot.

Flip and rotate every 15 minutes. If you have limited time between sessions, turn your suit around every quarter hour so both sides get exposure to sun or air. This speeds up the process significantly and ensures even drying without any damp pockets.

The Quick-Dry Wetsuit Drying Strategy

Your best bet for drying a wetsuit between morning and afternoon sessions is combining two tactics. First, squeeze out excess water immediately after your morning session using a towel roll method. Then hang your suit vertically in the brightest, breeziest spot available. If you're at the beach, a simple tree branch or fence works fine. If you're at home or your car, invest in a compact drying rack that you can store easily. The key is getting the suit off the ground so air can circulate underneath. Position it away from direct heat, as extreme temperatures can damage neoprene. Within 2 to 3 hours in decent weather, your suit will be dry enough to wear comfortably again. Even if it's slightly damp, that's often fine for a second session. A completely dry suit isn't always necessary between back-to-back sessions, just dry enough that it doesn't feel heavy or cold when you slip it on.

Common Questions

Can I dry my wetsuit in a dryer or with heat?

No. High heat damages neoprene permanently, causing it to shrink, crack, or lose elasticity. Avoid dryers, direct sunlight on extremely hot days, and heat sources like radiators. Stick to air drying in shade or gentle sun. If your suit gets too hot, rinse it with cool water and hang it in shade to cool down before drying again.

How long does it take to dry a wetsuit between sessions?

On a warm, sunny day with good airflow, a wetsuit can dry to wearable condition in 2 to 4 hours. On cooler or cloudier days, plan for 4 to 6 hours. If you're short on time, wring it out well first and hang it in the breeziest spot you can find. Even a partially dry suit is better than a soaking wet one.

Should I rinse my suit before drying it between sessions?

A quick rinse with fresh water is ideal if you have access to it, especially after saltwater sessions. This removes salt and debris that can damage the neoprene. If rinsing isn't possible, at least rinse it when you get home. For quick drying between sessions, a rinse isn't strictly necessary, but it does help prevent odor and degradation.

What's the best way to dry booties and gloves between sessions?

Hang booties and gloves separately from your suit using clips or hooks on your drying rack. Stuff them loosely with newspaper or a towel to help them hold their shape and absorb moisture from the inside. Change the newspaper every 30 minutes if possible. They'll dry faster than the suit and be ready to go when you are.

Can I store my wetsuit damp between sessions?

Not ideal, but it's okay for a few hours if you're planning to wear it again soon. Leaving a damp suit bunched up for longer encourages mold and odor. Always hang it up to air dry, even if it's still slightly wet. If you won't be using it for days, make sure it's completely dry before storing.

What's the difference between a wetsuit drying rack and just hanging it on a hanger?

A dedicated drying rack is designed to support the weight and shape of a wet suit without stretching it out. It often has wider shoulders, drainage channels, and integrated hooks for accessories. A regular hanger can work in a pinch, but a proper rack dries your suit faster and keeps it in better condition long term.

Make Drying Between Sessions Effortless

Stop worrying about a damp, smelly suit for your afternoon session. The Drip Suit is designed for quick, easy drying with integrated hooks to keep all your gear organized in one place. Its eco-friendly construction and universal fit mean it works with any vehicle or storage setup. Get your suit drying properly and be ready for your next wave.

Shop The Drip Suit

LISS | Living in Sunshine