The Truth About Peeing in Your Wetsuit: Is It Normal or Nasty?

Do Surfers Pee in Their Wetsuits?

Yes, most surfers pee in their wetsuits, and it's considered completely normal. While it might sound gross to non-surfers, it's a common practice in the surfing world.

Why Do Surfers Pee in Their Wetsuits?

Immersion Diuresis: The Science Behind It

When you enter cold water, your body naturally triggers a response called immersion diuresis. This reaction increases urine production, making you feel the need to pee, even if you didn’t before paddling out.

Convenience Over Comfort

Let’s be real—no one wants to paddle back to shore, strip down, and risk missing waves just to find a bathroom. Surfers often choose efficiency over etiquette, opting to relieve themselves while still in the lineup.

The “Warmth” Myth

Some surfers claim that peeing in a wetsuit helps keep them warm. While the temporary warmth is real, the overall effect is counterproductive. Once urine cools, it can increase heat loss, potentially leading to hypothermia in extreme conditions.

Is Peeing in Your Wetsuit Bad for You?

Not really, but there are some downsides:
✅ Harmless for most people if you rinse properly.
❌ Can cause skin irritation or rash (especially if you have sensitive skin).
❌ May cause wetsuit odor if not flushed out.

How to Minimize the Smell & Keep Your Wetsuit Clean

To avoid a funky-smelling wetsuit, follow these simple steps:

• Flush your suit with saltwater immediately after peeing to dilute the urine.
• Rinse your wetsuit with fresh water after every session.
• Use wetsuit shampoo or mild detergent for a deep clean.
• Hang your wetsuit to dry in the shade (direct sunlight can damage the neoprene).

Alternatives to Peeing in Your Wetsuit

If you're not a fan of the “warm wetsuit club”, consider these options:

• Wear a swimsuit instead of a wetsuit in warmer waters.
• Pee before hitting the waves to reduce the urge.
• Use a wetsuit with a chest-zip or flush system, which makes rinsing easier.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Wetsuit Peeing

💬 Is pee sterile?
No, this is a common myth. While urine is mostly water, it contains bacteria that can cause irritation if left in your wetsuit.

💬 Can peeing in my wetsuit ruin it?
Not directly, but over time, urine buildup can degrade neoprene and create persistent odors. Rinsing your wetsuit after each session is key.

💬 Will other surfers know if I pee in my wetsuit?
Not unless you brag about it or forget to rinse properly. 😆

Gear Up at Spunky's!

Looking for wetsuits that are easy to clean and built to last? Check out our Best Wetsuits!

Got more questions? Drop by Spunky's Surf Shop, and we’ll get you suited up! 🌊🏄‍♂️