June 05, 2018 3 min read
Summer is here and for you it might be time to look for a new wetsuit to get you through the busy sailing season and UK heat (we hope).
At Sailing Chandlery we stock wetsuits for men, women and kids across a variety of budgets. The two main brands we have in stock are Zhik and Magic Marine.
You can easily filter the wetsuits we have in stock on our sailing wetsuits page.
As well as long johns, full and short arm wetsuits we also have many hiking wetsuit options available. On request we can also source wetsuit trousers from Zhik.
We have a full range of wetsuits for juniors and kids in stock. At the moment we only stock them from Zhik but they cover the main areas of shortie, skiff suit, steamer and 3/4 hiker.
The Zhik kids range is made with the same quality of the adults range, just on a smaller budget as Zhik appreciate that kids grow fast - you're guaranteed a product which lasts when purchasing from Zhik.
Skiff suits or Long johns are fast becoming the most popular wetsuit on the market - the versatility of a skiff suit with the various layering options is making them popular so sailors can chop and change what they wear for the conditions.
For example, on a hot day I might wear a skiff suit but then just add a long sleeve rash vest - on a colder day I might add a fleecy rash vest or base layer and thicker wetsuit top or spray top. For many of our sponsored sailors they find a warmer winter long john is great combined with a thinner top.
For Summer, the Zhik Microfleece is going to be the best option we have available in stock. This is available in an X (top of the range) or V (budget with less features) version which helps to fit all price brackets.
The X has a loo rip in the mens suit (easy access when you've got to go) and also zi-bands which help keep the wetsuit connected to your other clothing, such as boots. The X range also has super stretch neoprene throughout giving you that little bit of extra movement.
These wetsuits from Zhik were only released earlier in the year and we were produdly one of the first to display them at the RYA Dinghy Show. So far it's been a balance of sales between the X and V suit. If you've previously had a Zhik Microfleece summer wetsuit then you should go with the X range.
Explore the various wetsuit or performance tops that can acompany a long john wetsuit in our sailing tops section.
If you're looknig for a short arm sailing wetsuit then Magic Marine is the choice for you. The additional neoprene over the shoulders will keep you a little warmer and will give you a bit more protection while keeping your arms free to catch some sunshine, remember the suncream!
If you're looking for a full long arm sailing wetsuit then you're going to have to go up in thickness. Most of these sailing wetsuits are made for the colder months and the Magic Marine option jumps to a 4/5mm thickness.
Some of the new steamers do have excellent wetsuit technologies and can keep you cool while wearing them through warmer months - this might be ideal if it is summer but you've got a long day on the water racing at a championship for example.
As I explained in the skiff suit section of this article, it's becoming more common to layer with various items of sailing clothing. Yes, you are likely to end up with more kit but you will be much more comfortable and will be able to adjust for temperature and conditions on the day.
As well as sailing wetsuits we do have a good range of sailing tops in stock too. This includes spandex rash vests, wetsuit tops, smocks and spray tops.
We are always available and are more than happy to answer any questions you might have about any of our products. Please give us a call or drop us an email.
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My favourite rope for splicing
Solid folding lock knife, this is my third one (dropped the last and the first I had for over 6 years).
Looks like it will be good at cutting rope, I've only ever used it for cutting cheese...
we order some stainless beta pins, good price and very quick delivery.
Zhik described this range as medium waterproofness. Unsure what this means and whether I need a spare set of gear for stronger weather. Not convinced but it fits well and it’s a good make. Would be good to see a long term review
The Inglefield clip was invented by Lieutenant Edward Inglefield RN in the 1890s, it has been standard issue to British warships since 1895.
The idea was to make a reliable and fast way of assembling a hoist of signal flags, which they do very well.
I have had a long involvement with these clips, mostly for flags, but they have other uses, for example the West Lancashire Seabird One Design (a half rater) use the clips for their spinnaker halyard attachment to the sail, and I have seen a big version cut out of steel plate for a special job.
The standard clips are made from brass, these medium size nylon ones are clearly not as strong as brass, but they are good for small flags.
A further advantage is the avoidance of metallic stains on the bunting.
I don't think they would be strong enough for a big flag in windy conditions, but that isnt what i purchased them for.
Brilliant rope pack - thanks
Well made and arrived well within time frame really happy with the cover and service highly recommended
Many thanks to the team for advice on which products are in stock and which is most suitable.
This part fitted exactly.Excellent expert advice. Promptly delivered.
Regards Martin
Buoyancy aid arrived nice and quickly, and a nice little park of love heart sweets. Haven’t had chance to sail in it yet, but it’s a nice fit and great quality. Should be testing it out this Sunday.
Quick delivery, well made product and perfect for my purposes.
Goods as described. Arrived promptly. Everything as expected.
I bought the rope to replace rope for stage curtains at our village hall. It was speedily delivered in time for the panto and is smooth to use and does the job perfectly!
Great easy to use web shop, delivered on time exactly as described, will deffo use again
Finding it difficult to refuel & surprised how quick the fuel runs out
Came exactly as described --work well--delivered promptly