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Surfing in Winter (& colder conditions) – 7 Wetsuit Layering Tips from NCW
Surfing in winter – and colder conditions in general – can be a chilly affair in the UK. Layering up your wetsuit with thermal rash vests can see this chill greatly reduced.
Check out the video below.
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Layering Your Wetsuit with Thermal Rash Vests for Extra Warmth
When the water temperature drops and the wind picks up, staying warm in the surf becomes just as important as performance. At North Coast Wetsuits (NCW), we know cold-water surfing is all about smart layering. That’s why our range of wetsuits and thermal rash vests are designed to keep you warm, flexible, and stoked—even in the chilliest conditions. Best of all, NCW products deliver exceptional performance at a price that won’t break the bank.
1.5mm Neoprene Thermal Long Sleeve Rash Vest (unisex fit)
£35.95
Why Layering Matters in Surfing
Cold-water surfing puts your gear to the test. Even the thickest wetsuit can feel the chill on icy days, which is where layering comes in. By adding a thermal rash vest (or even long or short john) under your North Coast Wetsuit, you create an additional layer of insulation. This helps trap body heat more effectively, reduces flush-through from cold water, and provides a snug, comfortable fit without restricting movement.
1.5 mm Thermal Neo Hooded Sleeveless Rash Vest (unisex fit)
£31.95
Whether you’re chasing waves in the depths of winter or braving early morning surfs, layering is the key to extending your time in the water.
NCW Thermal Rash Vests
At NCW, we offer a carefully developed range of thermal rash vests to pair perfectly with our wetsuits. Unlike standard rash guards, our thermals are made with insulating, quick-drying fabrics that add warmth without bulk. Slip one under your wetsuit and you’ll instantly feel the difference—more heat retention, less chill, and maximum flexibility.
2mm Thermal Super-X-Stretch Neoprene Sleeveless Rash Vest
£29.95
Our thermal rash vests are available in both long-sleeve and short-sleeve options, allowing you to tailor your layering to the conditions. For the coldest days, we recommend a long-sleeve thermal to maximise coverage and warmth.
The Perfect Match: NCW Wetsuits and Thermals
Every surfer knows that fit is just as important as thickness when it comes to staying warm. That’s why North Coast Wetsuits are cut to provide an ergonomic, flexible fit that works seamlessly with our layering accessories. When combined with a thermal rash vest, our wetsuits create a double barrier against cold water, ensuring you can surf longer and more comfortably.
Our wetsuit range is available in a variety of thicknesses to suit different water temperatures, from lightweight summer suits to thick winter steamers. Adding a thermal layer means you can extend the lifespan of your suit by adapting it to a wider range of conditions, saving you money in the long run.
Affordable Surf Gear Without Compromise
At NCW, we believe high-performance surf gear shouldn’t cost the earth. That’s why all our wetsuits, thermal rash vests, and surf accessories are priced affordably while maintaining the durability and performance demanded by surfers. When you invest in NCW, you’re getting the same warmth, flexibility, and quality found in big-name brands—without the inflated price tag.
This affordability makes layering even more practical. Instead of buying multiple thick wetsuits for different seasons, you can simply add a thermal rash vest to your NCW wetsuit and surf through colder months with ease.
Accessories to Complete the Setup
Layering doesn’t stop at rash vests. NCW also offers essential accessories like hoods, gloves, and boots—all designed to complement your wetsuit and keep you warm from head to toe. For winter surfing, combining a thermal vest with a hooded NCW wetsuit, plus gloves and boots, gives you a complete cold-water setup at an affordable price.
Surf Longer, Stay Warmer, Spend Less
Cold-water surfing is all about preparation, and layering your wetsuit with a thermal rash vest is the simplest, most effective way to boost warmth. At North Coast Wetsuits, we’re proud to provide surfers with affordable, high-quality gear designed for real conditions on the water.
So next time you’re checking the swell on a frosty morning, make sure your NCW wetsuit is paired with one of our thermal rash vests. You’ll stay warmer, surf longer, and get the most from every session—without overspending.
See the whole NCW surfing and watersports range in our online shop here