ION Neoprene Shorty | Wetsuits for warm conditions

Shorty wetsuits for men, women and kids

A shorty wetsuit (also known as a springsuit) is designed for water temperatures between approximately 18–24°C (64–75°F). It keeps your core warm while leaving your arms and legs free, making it ideal for surfing, kitesurfing, wing foiling, and windsurfing—where flexibility and freedom of movement are key.

If you’re unsure whether to choose a 2/2, 3/2 mm or thinner shorty wetsuit, or debating between a front zip and back zip, you’ll find the answers here.

Shorty wetsuits (also called springsuits) are ideal for water temperatures between around 18–24°C (64–75°F). They’re designed for warm water sessions where you want light insulation and protection from wind chill and sun, without overheating.

A 2/2 mm shorty uses the same thickness throughout and is perfect for warm conditions and maximum flexibility. A 3/2 mm shorty features thicker neoprene in the core (3 mm) and thinner panels in the arms and legs (2 mm), giving you extra warmth while still allowing freedom of movement—ideal for slightly cooler days or longer sessions.

Front zip shorties offer more flexibility, a better fit, and often improved water sealing, making them a popular choice for performance-oriented surfers and kiters. Back zip shorties are easier to get in and out of, which can be more convenient—especially if you prioritize comfort and quick changes. In the end choosing between front and back zip is a highly personal choice and both can deliver the same performance.

Rinse your shorty with fresh water after every session to remove salt, sand, and saltwater residue. Keep it out of direct sunlight and never use a dryer to preserve the neoprene’s flexibility and lifespan. Check out our comprehensive care instructions to learn more.

Yes, you can wear a thin shorty as a base layer under a full wetsuit in colder conditions. It adds extra insulation around your core and can make your setup more versatile, especially when water and air temperatures change. The best choice would be thin neoprene styles in 0.5mm that can be found as long john or short john as part of ION's transition tech.

It depends on the season and location. In summer, a shorty is usually enough for many spots in southern Europe and can also work on warmer days in northern regions. Outside of peak summer, most Atlantic conditions will require a full wetsuit for proper warmth.

For tropical surf trips, a 2/2 mm shorty or even a thinner summer wetsuit is usually the best choice. In many cases, a shorty is more about protection from sun, reef, and board rash than warmth. If it gets really hot, some riders even switch to neoprene tops or rashguards.

Even in warm water, a shorty can make a big difference. It protects against UV exposure, reduces wind chill, and prevents skin irritation from your board, harness, or wetsuit seams—especially during long sessions.

A shorty should fit snug like a second skin without restricting movement. There should be no loose areas or air pockets, as these can cause flushing and reduce warmth. Over time, neoprene will stretch slightly, so a tight fit at the start is key.