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Everything You Need to Know About Wetsuits!

The Surfpirates Wetsuit Guide, so you can easily find your wetsuit online!

Hey Surfer! When it comes to surfing, good equipment is essential. And on top of the list is of course the wetsuit. Whether you're looking for a classic wetsuit, a special wetsuit for women, a short neoprene shorty for women or a high-end ION wetsuit - we at surfpirates.com have everything your water sports heart desires!

Help Guides

At What Temperature Should I Choose a Short Shorty Wetsuit?

Ah, the shorty! Ideal for warmer temperatures and super stylish at the same time. But when is the right time to change the long wetsuit for a neoprene shorty ladies or men?

When it comes to wetsuits, the thickness of the neoprene is a crucial factor to ensure the appropriate thermal insulation in different water temperatures. The thickness of neoprene is usually expressed in millimeters (mm), and two numbers are often used, such as 4/3mm. The first number refers to the thickness of the neoprene on the body and the second on the arms and legs. We have summarized the different thicknesses in a degree table:

  • 20-25 degrees

    3/2mm

    A suit in this thickness you choose best at temperatures of 20-25 degrees. Especially in the summer months, this neoprene thickness is very comfortable and offers a lot of flex!

  • 18-22 degrees

    4/3mm

    The 4/3 mm neoprene is especially in northern Germany and Denmark a suit that you can wear well from June to September. It is noticeably warmer than the 3/2mm and still has very comfortable flex. Temperatures from 18-22 degrees are ideal!

  • 10-22 degrees

    5/3mm

    The wetsuit that everyone should have in their quiver! Probably the best-selling neoprene thickness for all who want to get out on the water at the first rays of sunshine! With the high quality 5/3mm suits you can get into the water at 10 degrees. Up to 22 degrees this thickness is your ideal companion!

  • 0-10 degrees

    Hooded

    For you it's the season all year round? Then a suit with hood, so-called Neo Hoodies, may not be missing with you! Through an integrated hood comes significantly less water into the suit and a rinse cycle is much less unpleasant! Hooded wetsuits are available in 5/4mm and 6/5mm. With these suits you can from 0-15 degrees on the water!

  • From 25 degrees

    Shorty

    The shorty is intended for high summer, or regions where it is often over 25 degrees. As a rule, shortys are 2mm thick and thus offer extreme flex and a very comfortable feel.

  • From 27 degrees

    Neoprenshirt

    You follow the summer and choose your destination according to the best temperature? With the neoprene shirt you can from about 27 degrees on the water. On the bottom you just wear board shorts or bikini bottoms.

  • What size should my wetsuit for surfing?

    Fit is everything in a wetsuit! An ill-fitting suit will leave you cold and can also cause chafing. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect size:

    1. Not too loose, not too tight: Your wetsuit should fit snugly without feeling constricted. A well-fitting suit will keep out the cold and provide maximum mobility.
    2. Watch out for wrinkles: Wrinkles in the neoprene are a sign that the suit is too big. A well-fitting suit will hug your body seamlessly.
    3. If you're buying online: Be sure to use our sizing charts at surfpirates.com. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. We will be happy to help you.

  • How should a wetsuit actually fit?

    Like a second skin! Especially for newbies this feeling is a bit uncomfortable at the beginning, but your suit should really fit skin tight. What many do not know, the suits usually widen after 5-10 times and are then about half a size larger!

  • Why are the same neoprene thicknesses available for such different prices?

    You want to buy your own wetsuit and click through the different models and prices online? This is due to the different neoprene qualities, linings or even taped seams.

    For example, there are 5/3mm wetsuits for a little more than 200 €, but also for almost 500 €! The suits for 200 € are enough for everyone who rather wants to go on the water in good weather and also can not go out several times a week. 5/3s for 300-500 € are much more flexible than those for 200 €, offer a higher wearing comfort and offer a longer durability! The expensive suits often also have a warm lining, which dries very quickly again and taped seams, which let less water into the suit!

  • The brand world of wetsuits on Surfpirates

    Our impressive range of brands offers you the crème de la crème of the surf world. From up-and-coming insiders to established industry giants, you'll find a variety as colorful and dynamic as the oceans themselves. Dive into our assortment and find the perfect wetsuit that not only protects your body, but also your style.

    Here is a small guide to the fit of the various manufacturers - Mystic, Rip Curl - Here you can choose the suit well one size larger than normal! ION, Soöruz, XCEL, Prolimit - These manufacturers fall relatively normal and you can choose your size as usual with eg T-shirts!

    In 5 steps to the right wetsuit - this way

  • Find the perfect wetsuit at surfpirates.com!

    Whether you want to buy a wetsuit designed specifically for women, are looking for the ultimate wetsuit or the hottest ION wetsuit, we have the largest selection and the best prices. Don't forget our accessories and surf suit alternatives section. Jump into the adventure with the Surf Pirates and surf in style!

Help Guides

Windsurf Harness Guide

Are you looking for a new harness for windsurfing? Here at Surfpirates.de you'll definitely find the right model for you!

Here we summarize the most important points so that you are optimally equipped and satisfied with your equipment.

The harness is an important component of your equipment. If the harness is too small, it can put uncomfortable pressure on your ribs or hips and does not provide the necessary support for your lower back. If it is too big, it is very likely to ride up and quickly hang under your armpits. This happens very quickly, especially if you jump a lot when windsurfing!

  • How do I find the right size for me?

    All manufacturers such as ION, Prolimit and Ride Engine offer a size chart to match their harnesses!

Here you can find an overview of our manufacturers with the size charts for the harnesses:

  • What are the differences between the harnesses?

    The biggest difference is: seat or hip harness!

Who should choose a hip harness?

VThe seat harness offers advantages, especially for riders who are just starting out. Especially when kitesurfing, the lower seat of the harness gives you more depower and the pull from the kite is directed more towards the buttocks. The lower center of gravity gives you more control.

Even riders who often have back pain after a session can take a lot of weight off their back and stay on the water longer and without pain!

A seat harness is also ideal for windsurfers who want speed and the longest possible strokes.

Why are there so many different models of hip harnesses?

As every body is a little different, we naturally have to offer a wide range of harness shapes. Here at Surfpirates.de you will definitely find a model that suits your body. Starting in the hip area, there are different widths. So you can choose the perfect harness for your back. The back plate is also available with a narrower or higher cut. A narrower cut is an advantage if you are looking for as much freedom of movement as possible. Higher back plates distribute the pressure more over the entire back and therefore offer more comfort!

  • Hohes Trapez

  • Sitztrapez

  • Hardshell Trapeze

Hardshell vs. Softshell Trapez

A few years ago, brands such as Ride Engine and Mystic came onto the market with so-called hardshell harnesses. These harnesses have a fixed back plate made of either GRP or carbon. This back plate ensures that the harness deforms less and distributes the force exerted even more over the entire back. The harness with the fixed back plate is therefore a good way to combat back pain after a session.

Aber Achtung, es hat auch Nachteile:
If, for example, you are out in the waves with the kitewaveboard and often ride in the switch, the harness usually always rotates a little on your hips. This can cause the high part of the back plate to slide off the back and into the side of the ribs, restricting movement again!

  • Ride Engine Hardshell

  • Mystic Softshell

  • What kind of hook plates are there?

    The hook is not always the same either. The most noticeable difference here, for example, is in the kitesurfing and windsurfing harnesses!

    The picture here clearly shows this:

    • Kitesurfhook

    • Windsurfhook

    There are also sliders in the kite sector, which are often a rope made from Dynema and are particularly useful for foiling and wave kiting! The slider allows you to turn in even further and thus place the pull more to one side. This leads to a freer ride and even more fun! Please note: Dynema ropes should be checked more frequently and replaced once a season if necessary. You can find these ropes here: https://www.surfpirates.de/search/?qs=Dynema

    The Freeride Hook from Mystic is exactly the right choice for all those who don't want to unhook themselves, ride in the waves, but also like to jump!

  • Important:

    Many manufacturers now sell windsurf harnesses without a hook plate. This gives you as a customer the opportunity to choose exactly the right width and the right hook/slider to suit your needs. As soon as you have selected the size and color of the harness, you will be offered a selection of hooks if no hook is included with the harness!

Do you still have questions about your windsurf harness, or are you not quite sure what you need?

Feel free to contact us!

Help Guides

Kite Harness Guide

Are you looking for a new harness for kitesurfing? You're guaranteed to find the perfect model for you at Surfpirates.de!

We have compiled the most important information for you here so that you are optimally equipped and satisfied with your equipment.

The harness, also known as a "harness", plays a crucial role in your equipment. If the harness is too small, it can press uncomfortably on your ribs or hips and not provide the necessary support for your lower back. If it is too big, there is a risk that it will slide up and quickly slide under your armpits. This can happen a lot, especially when kitesurfing if you do a lot of jumps!

  • How do I choose the right size?

    All manufacturers such as ION, Prolimit and Ride Engine offer size charts for their kitesurf harnesses!

Here you can find an overview of our manufacturers with size charts for kitesurf harnesses:

  • What are the differences between kitesurf harnesses?

    The biggest difference is between seat and hip harnesses!

When is a hip harness the best choice?

A hip harness offers advantages, especially for kitesurfing beginners. The lower seat of the harness enables better depower and directs the pull from the kite more strongly onto the buttocks. The lower center of gravity gives you more control and can reduce back pain after sessions, allowing you to surf longer and pain-free. A hip harness is also a good choice for windsurfers who focus on speed and long strokes.

Why are there so many different models of hip harnesses?

As every body is unique, we offer a variety of shapes and cuts for kite harnesses. At Surfpirates.de you are sure to find a model that fits your body shape perfectly. The variations range from different hip widths to different back plates, which can be cut narrower or higher. A narrower cut allows more freedom of movement, while higher back plates distribute the pressure more evenly over the entire back and therefore offer more comfort.

  • Hohes Trapez

  • Kitesurf Plate

  • Schmales Trapez

Hardshell vs. softshell harness

A few years ago, brands such as Ride Engine and Mystic came onto the market with so-called hardshell kitesurf harnesses. These harnesses have a fixed back plate made of either GRP or carbon. This back plate ensures less deformation of the harness and a more even distribution of the forces acting on the entire back. Hardshell harnesses can help to reduce back pain after surfing. However, it is important to note that they can also have disadvantages. For example, if you are kitesurfing in waves and frequently change direction, the harness can rotate on your hips. This can cause the upper part of the back plate to slide off your back onto your rib side and restrict your movement!

  • Ride Engine Hardshell

  • Mystic Softshell

  • What types of hook plates are there?

    The type of hook plates can also vary, especially between kitesurf and windsurf harnesses!

    The picture here clearly shows this:

    • Kitesurfhook

    • Windsurfhook

    In the kite sector, there are also sliders, which are often made of Dynema rope and are particularly advantageous for foiling and wave kiting. The slider enables a further turn and shifts the pull more to the side, which leads to more fun and freedom when surfing. However, please note that Dynema ropes should be checked regularly and replaced once a season if necessary. You can find these ropes here: https://www.surfpirates.de/search/?qs=Dynema

    The Freeride Hook from Mystic is the ideal choice for those who don't want to unhook themselves and want to ride waves as well as jump!

  • Important:

    Many manufacturers now offer kitesurf harnesses without hook plates. This allows you as a customer to choose the right width and the right hook or slider for your needs. Once you have selected the size and color of the harness from us, you will be offered various hook options if the harness is supplied without hooks!

Do you still have questions about your kite harness or are you not sure what you need?

Then simply get in touch with our team!

Help Guides

Foilguide

Hey and welcome to our Surfpirates online store Foilguide!

The selection of foils in our Surfpirates store is huge! Every well-known manufacturer has its own line of foils, and some offer an impressively diverse range of foils and accessories. No wonder it's easy to lose track.

In recent years, the sport of foiling has experienced a real boom thanks to wings! As technical development has also progressed enormously, we want to give you an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of different foils in our Foil Guide.

Are you looking for a simple introduction to the world of foils? Then be sure to check out our wing foil guide for beginners.

Below, we delve a little deeper into the world of foils, highlighting the technical differences as well as the advantages and disadvantages of various foil concepts.

The different types of foil

Wir kategorisieren Foils nach der sogenannten Aspect Ratio (AR), was auf deutsch so viel wie Seitenverhältnis bedeutet. Unter Aspect Ratio versteht man das Verhältnis des Quadrats der Flügelspannweite zur Flügelfläche, oder der Spannweite zur mittleren Flügeltiefe.

Foils can generally be technically divided into three different categories. But beware, this distinction is not entirely clear-cut, but rather fluid. The classification within the foil sport is roughly as follows.

  • The classification within the foil sport is roughly as follows.

    1. Low Aspect (3-5 AR)
    2. Mid Aspect (5-7,5 AR)
    3. High Aspect (7,5-12) AR

    Here's a comparison for you: In aircraft construction, values of approx. 2-20 are common. In foiling, as can be seen above, we tend to move in a range between 3-12.

  • Low Aspect

  • Mid Aspect

  • High Aspect

A higher aspect ratio is hydrodynamically more efficient, as additional drag occurs in the area of the wing tips due to end vortices. The higher the aspect ratio, the lower this drag. Winglets have a similar end vortex drag-reducing effect.

However, the elongation also increases the inertia around the roll axis (longitudinal axis). In addition, thin, elongated surfaces create greater technical challenges in terms of structural stability.

Driving characteristics & areas of use

  • Low Aspect

    • Low Aspect Foils

    Low aspect foils are well suited for beginners as the wings, which usually have a thick profile, produce a lot of lift even at very low speeds. Beginners will also appreciate the low overall speed.

    If you build smaller wings for advanced riders with low-aspect geometry, the result is very maneuverable wings that can be ridden very agilely in small, slow waves. The disadvantage of this is low efficiency when pumping and general performance. For this reason, wings are also less common in advanced freeriding. Freestylers never actually use low-aspect foils, as the achievable jump height is too low due to the low basic speed.

  • Mid Aspect

    • Mid Aspect Foils

    Mid Aspect foils are now the most common type of foil in wings in general. From beginners to advanced freeriders, everyone will find what they are looking for here, as the mixture of stability, maneuverability and performance is not too much for anyone and is still sporty enough for most riders.

    The range of use of Mid-Aspect Wings really does extend from freeriding to waves and freestyling. Every skill level will find suitable wings.

  • High Aspect

    • High Aspect Foils

    As the basic level of users has risen, the High-Aspect Wings have continued to develop in recent years. And here too, the range of applications is diverse!

    Coupled with a profile that is not too radical, even the sporty intermediate will find a suitable new toy here.

    Large representatives of this group (1500+ cm²) are excellent light wind wings or dock launch wings.

    The medium sizes (1000-1500 cm²) are suitable for almost every area of use. Sporty freeriding, moderate wave riding and freestyle maneuvers can be coaxed out of these wing foils.

    In the smallest class (500-1000 cm²) you will find the most radical and fastest wings on the market.

    Even the sporty advanced rider will quickly get to grips with them and anyone up to the absolute professional can find a suitable wing here. The range of use covers speed/slalom as well as medium/large waves, the most radical freestyle maneuvers and even a sporty freeride range for light riders.

Mast length

  • Beginner

    As a rule, beginners should get on best with masts of 60-80 cm. Some surf schools also use shorter models - but these are only really useful for a short time, so you shouldn't buy a mast that is too short at the beginning. Very short masts are also occasionally used in extremely shallow areas.

  • Advanced Freeride/Freestyle/Wave/Pumpfoil

    For advanced riders, masts between 70-90 cm are the standard. Masts around 70-80 cm are the efficient choice for dock launching.

  • Pros Freestyle/Wave/Slalom

    It is very rare to find masts under 85 cm among very good riders. Lengths of up to 110 cm are also not uncommon in the speed range.

Fuselage length

  • Beginners

    A beginner's foil layer should not be too short, usually 65-80 cm depending on the other settings of the foil. This makes the foil more stable and slower in its reactions and therefore easier to control.

  • Advanced Freeride/Freestyle/Wave

    In this group, the most common fuselage lengths are between 60 and 70 cm.

  • Pros Freestyle/Wave

    In some cases, very short fuselages of around 50 cm are used here, which facilitates fast, radical maneuvers and pumping.

Stabilizer for foils

In general, it can be said that the stabilizer must fit the front wing and the overall foil. Larger front wings usually have larger stabilizers with thicker profiles. By swapping a stabilizer for a thinner, smaller stabilizer, you can get some extra speed and manoeuvrability out of a rather sluggish, larger wing foil.

Chims or similar options can often be used to adjust the performance of foils on the stabilizer.

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Harnesses for kitesurfing, windsurfing and wingfoiling

Harnesses are indispensable pieces of equipment for kitesurfers and windsurfers and are also used for wingfoiling to take the strain off the arms. They offer stability, comfort and safety on the water. But which harness suits you best? Check out our wide range of harnesses and the necessary accessories. You'll find them here:

But before you go out and grab yourself a harness, let's find out which harness suits your riding style best.

Seat or hip harness? The right choice for you!

First of all: there are basically two types of surf harness, which you can of course also buy online from us. The decision between a seat harness and a hip harness depends on your riding style and preferences. Here are the details:

  • Seatharnesses | Seat harnesses offer you mega support in the lower back and are especially great for longer sessions. They are great for beginners because they give you more control and put less strain on your body. As a beginner, you can concentrate on the kite and board for the time being. A seat harness helps you to get a better feel for the position of the harness. As soon as you have more experience, you can switch to a hip harness, which gives you more freedom of movement.
  • Hip harnesses sit higher and give you the freedom you need for freestyle and surfing. The weight is transferred to the center of your back, which keeps your back straighter and more extended. Hip harnesses are a little more challenging, especially when your kite pulls you up. As soon as you can hold your height and walk well, it's time to switch from the seat harness to the hip harness and take your style to the next level.

Our Surfpirates tip: As soon as you can hold your height and ride well, switch from the seat harness to the hip harness in a relaxed manner. This way you benefit from more freedom of movement and can improve your riding style.

What is important for a good harness?

A good harness must have a lot to offer so that you can perform optimally on the water. Here are a few key factors:

1) Fit & comfort: fit is a crucial criterion for the comfort of your harness. A well-fitting harness should fit snugly without pinching. It should adapt to your body and not chafe, even during long sessions. The tricky thing is that every body is different.

2) Women's harnesses vs. men's harnesses: This is why there are special harnesses for men and women. Women's harnesses are specially designed for the female anatomy. They offer an adapted fit with a narrower cut and extra padding for more comfort. There are also cool designs in trendy colors. For men, there is a large selection of kite harness models that are tailored to different riding styles and requirements.

3) Material: Softshell harnesses offer flexibility and comfort. They adapt to your body and provide a soft feel. Ideal for relaxed and long sessions where freedom of movement and comfort are paramount. Hardshell harnesses, on the other hand, offer more support and stability. These are perfect for advanced riders who expect high performance and often kite in demanding conditions. Hardshell harnesses distribute the pulling force more evenly and protect the back better from overloading.

Some say "nothing about hardshell", others don't like the rigid fit. The decision is ultimately up to you. Try out both variants and decide for yourself which harness best suits your riding style and comfort requirements.

4) Choice of brands: With brands such as Core, Concept X and ION, you are always on the safe side. These top brands offer you harnesses that not only look cool, but also impress with their durability and comfort. They rely on innovative technologies and high-quality materials to offer you the best possible kitesurfing experience. Check out the selection at surfpirates.de!

Tips at the end: How to find your perfect harness

How do I find the right size for my kitesurf harness?

Follow the size charts of the brands to find the perfect fit. It's best to try on the harness before you buy it to make sure it fits and is comfortable. We are happy to advise you in advance!

What is a good beginner kite harness?

Seat harnesses are great for beginners because they offer you stability and comfort. Beginner models from Mystic or ION are easy to handle and the perfect start to the world of kitesurfing.

Difference between kitesurf and windsurf harnesses?

Kitesurf harnesses are usually designed as hip harnesses and offer you maximum freedom of movement. Windsurfing harnesses are often seat harnesses and give you the necessary support and stability.

How do I look after my kitesurf harness?

After every session, you should rinse your harness with fresh water to get rid of salt water and sand. Dry it well before packing it away to prevent mold. Store it in a cool, dry place.

Buy your harness now at Surfpirates

Ready to find your perfect harness? Check out our large selection of harnesses now. Whether you're looking for a kite harness or a windsurf harness, you'll find it here!