You wear a 6mm men’s wetsuit during the coldest conditions on the water, when warmth, comfort, and protection are essential. In general, male kitesurfers choose a 6mm wetsuit for water temperatures between 4 and 8 degrees Celsius. Especially during winter, early spring, and late autumn, a thick winter wetsuit feels amazing. However, your choice is not based on water temperature alone. Other weather conditions also determine whether a 6mm wetsuit is the right option. Think about strong winds, rain, and a lack of sunshine. The combination of cold water and wind chill can make it feel much colder on the water than expected.

So when should you choose a 6mm wetsuit instead of a 5mm wetsuit? The choice mainly comes down to flexibility versus warmth. A 5mm wetsuit generally feels a little more flexible, which gives you slightly more freedom of movement while kiting. This is especially nice if you enjoy jumping or freestyle tricks. A 6mm men’s wetsuit is less flexible, but gives much more warmth in return. Especially during long winter sessions, cold wind, or when you cool down quickly, a 6mm wetsuit is often the better choice. Almost all 6mm wetsuits are built to maximize warmth and usually feature sealed seams, quick-drying thermal linings, and integrated hoods for extra protection against cold wind. Not every 5mm wetsuit includes these features.

In cold surf destinations such as Iceland, Scandinavia, and parts of Canada, a 6mm men’s wetsuit is often the best option. In countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Denmark, and the United Kingdom, many kiters and surfers wear a 6mm wetsuit throughout the cold winter months.

Do you get cold quickly on the water or often kite in the harshest winter conditions? Then neoprene accessories can make the difference between ending your session early or enjoying an amazing day on the water. Think about neoprene gloves, boots, and hoods for extra warmth during freezing sessions. Or maybe you already own a more allround wetsuit and are simply looking for more warmth? With a neoprene jacket or extra neoprene layer, you can easily add warmth without immediately switching to a thicker wetsuit.

Build your ideal winter setup with our neoprene accessories.