GBS or Flatlock? Critical or Full Taping? – A quick breakdown of wetsuit seams and seals

Choosing a wetsuit can be tricky, especially due to the amount of variables there can be. The first thing we’d recommend starting with is the thickness you need so check out our thickness guide here if you haven’t already.

Wetsuit Seams

There are a few different types of wetsuit seams available and the type can determine how watertight and comfortable the suit it, plus it will affect the price of the wetsuit too.

Wetsuits work by trapping a think layer of water between your body and the suit. This layer of water will warm up to prevent you losing too much heat in the water. However, for this to work effectively, the wetsuit must fit you like a second skin and in cold water, you want the wetsuit to keep that warm layer of water in without letting any cold in. Wetsuit stitching and seam types can affect this process.

The main type of wetsuit stitching types we see are:

• Flatlock

Two pieces of neoprene are overlapped and sewn together using a zig-zag stitch, creating a flexible but flat seam. This style is often used on summer wetsuits as, this can be used on neoprene up to 3mm and it’s breathable, making it cooler when you’re not in the water. Water will be able to get through these seams so, it’s not the best style for warmth.

• Glued and BlindStitched (GBS)

Two pieces of neoprene are glued together to create a watertight seam, then stitched halfway through the neoprene (over the seam) for a stronger join. As there are no holes going all the way through the neoprene, minimal water can get into the suit, so the water trapped inside stays warm, keeping you warm too. Therefore, a GBS seam is best for cold water and is very common in 5mm wetsuits.

Wetsuit Seals

Some wetsuits will have reinforced seams for durability and warmth but, this does usually make the wetsuit more expensive. However, if you’re going to be using your wetsuit a lot or in cold water, it may be worth the investment.

• Glued Seams

Glued seams are used in GBS stitching mentioned above. Two panels are glued together before being stitched, creating a stronger, more durable, and watertight seam.

• Critically Taped Seams

Tape is applied to areas on the seams that are likely to be under stress when putting the wetsuit on or during use.

• Fully Taped Seams

Tape is applied to all the seams on the inside of the wetsuit.

• Liquid Seal

A special liquid rubber is applied to each side of the glued together panels along the seam to create a 100% watertight seal. This offers the most watertight, flexible, and strong seam you can get on a wetsuit.

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