Cold-Water Surfing: Why Winter Waves Are Worth It

by Charlotta Linder January 24, 2025 2 min read

Winter doesn’t mean it’s time to pack up your board and call it a season. In fact, for those who love cooler-water surfing, the chillier months can offer some of the best waves. It’s a whole different vibe out there in the winter surf, and if you’ve never given it a go, now’s the perfect time to try.


Why Surf in Winter?

Winter surfing is seriously rewarding. There’s something about the quiet of the ocean during the colder months that, at least for us, makes every wave feel a bit more magical. Plus, the cool water gives your system a refreshing boost – it's like nature's way of waking you up and energising you. And let’s not forget the waves—winter often brings more consistent swells, and quieter beaches mean fewer crowds and more room to play.

What You Need to Wear

Of course, you need to keep warm while you’re out there, so layering is key. A good wetsuit will make all the difference in how long you can stay in the water without feeling frozen. SEPTEMBER’s swimwear is designed to move with you, offering comfort and support as the perfect base layer under your suit.

Here’s a quick wetsuit thickness guide for different water temperatures to help you prep:

  • 61–68°F (16–20°C): 3/2mm full wetsuit
  • 54–61°F (12–16°C): 4/3mm full wetsuit
  • 46–54°F (8–12°C): 5/4mm full wetsuit with boots
  • Below 46°F (8°C): 6/5mm wetsuit with boots, gloves, and a hood

We love classics like O'Neill and Billabong for wetsuits that deliver on both warmth and performance, and many in our community are loving the wetsuits from Kassia+Surf. With the right setup, you’ll stay comfortable even when the water temperature feels freezing on its own.


The Unbeatable Feeling Afterwards

Yes, it’s cold—we know it! But nothing beats that post-surf ritual: peeling off your wetsuit in a cosy change robe (we love Dryrobe), warming up in your car with a takeaway matcha or coffee, and feeling that refreshing post-surf glow. It’s the little things that make winter surfing feel so rewarding.


Where Are All You Winter Surf Girls?

Are you into cooler-water surfing, or is it something you’re keen to try? Drop a comment below with your favourite post-surf ritual or your go-to wetsuit brand. Let’s share the stoke and keep the conversation alive until those warmer waves roll in!



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