[Deap]

Hey guys I'm looking to buy my own wetsuit for Surfing.

I'm after something that is not too expensive looks pretty sweet and I would prefer Shorties however as a beginner I have never tried any yet and wondered if people think I should steer clear?

I will only really be summer surfing but are there any risks to using shorties. I'm still hiring practise foam boards but I've seen people with large chunks of skin missing from their stomachs which I assume is from surfing without a wetsuit or Rash vest.

With shorties could I damage my arms or knees on the board? ir is it simply a case of me not being as warm as I would be in a full suit?

[Knightsy Boy!]

There is a danger you could hurt yourself without protection, Like any sport.. but a wet suit is like another skin protecting you and keeping you warm. For the summer a shortie should be fine, but I would go for a long full suit. The first wetsuit I had was a shortie, although I got on fine, I was alittle cold after a short period of time. Also you should be fine on a foam board, just look out for the fins on the board, Ive cracked my knee open on a fin after misjudging a wave and the board flipping, but ask in the shop what they best think for your circumstances, theres no point of buying a massively expensive wetsuit if your only going to use it once in a while..

[Chris_Dude]

Agreed man.
Please do not go for a 10 quid wetsuit from a bucket and spade shop, they can actually be very dangerous. SERIOUSLY!

Look on ebay if you are not from the coast and you know what you want. I am lucky as I was given a great suit so I never looked, if possible get in touch with a local surf center by email.
Every surf school / shop I have ever mailed down south are great for sales and advice.

Most people here also give superb advice but you did give very little info on what your plans for this suit are?