Ahh, summer on the North Island... We recommend a 3/2mm steamer, or for the height of summer, you may want a Short Arm Steamer or a Long Arm Springsuit.

Our preferred 3/2mm steamer for summer is the Bahia 3/2mm.TheBahia 3/2 has glued and blindstitched seams, MeshSkin chest/back panels and SuperGrill liner, to help keep the water out and the heat in.

For the less frequent surfer, theReactor II 3/2mm Steamer is a good value for money option featuring wind-resistant Smoothskin 3mm neoprene on the chest and back, and Ultraflex neoprene on the arms and legs, but lacks the stretch and warmth of higher-end wetsuits.

For a Short Arm Steamer check out the Bahia 2mm Short Sleeve Full Steamer. Short sleeves will give you some extra paddling power, yet the suit still has plenty of warmth in the body and legs.

Or flip it around with long arms and short legs with our Bahia 2mm Long Sleeve Springsuits. These come in two different leg options (Cheeky or Mid) and some sweet prints.

If you are lucky with the water temp or don't feel the cold as much you might get away with just lyrca at certain times, but generally you'll need neoprene.

It just depends on what’s most important to you - warmth / flexibility / price.

Check out the autumn/spring recommendations for further suggestionsif you feel the cold more or you are leaning towards cooler conditions.