Is It a Good Idea to Surf Without a Wetsuit?

The Freedom of Surfing Without a Wetsuit

We’ve all seen those cool videos of people gliding down waves in just boardshorts or a bikini. It looks amazing and feels even better. No heavy rubber, no struggle to get into a tight suit, and just the sun on your back. But is it actually a good idea? At Nomad Surf Camp, we get this question all the time from our guests.

The Good Stuff: Why It Feels Great

The main reason to skip the suit is simple: freedom. You can move much faster, your shoulders don't get as tired when you paddle, and you feel totally connected to the ocean. If you are coming to visit us in Morocco during the hotter months, the water can be super nice. It’s one of the reasons why people say we are a top surf camp for summer sessions.

The Not-So-Good Stuff: What to Watch Out For

Surfing without a wetsuit isn't always a dream. There are a few things that can ruin your session if you aren't careful:

• The Surf Rash: This is the big one. Your chest and stomach rub against the wax on the board. After an hour, your skin can get really red and sore.
• The Sun: When you're in the water, the sun hits you twice—once from the sky and once as a reflection off the water. Sunburn happens fast.
• Jellyfish and Sea Lice: A wetsuit is like a layer of armor. Without it, you're more likely to get a sting if something is floating in the water.
• Getting Cold: Even if the water feels warm when you jump in, your body loses heat quickly when you're sitting still waiting for a wave.

How to Do It Right

If you really want to ditch the suit, we suggest wearing a 'rash vest' or 'rash guard.' It’s a thin shirt that stops the board from scratching your skin and protects you from the sun. It’s the best of both worlds.