What's the water like today Phil?

Well, my young lad, the water was the same temperature as the air today (15.5C) as I paddled out to the gentle green waves off the west side of Bournemouth Pier.

I had spotted the swell earlier but by the time I got home, ate, fannied about a bit, packed the board in...What's the water like today Phil?

Well, my young lad, the water was the same temperature as the air today (15.5C) as I paddled out to the gentle green waves off the west side of Bournemouth Pier.

I had spotted the swell earlier but by the time I got home, ate, fannied about a bit, packed the board in my car and got back there, so had everyone else. Which meant about twenty people on what was by then a 30' wide stretch of break - to hell with covid ay?

I stayed clear and caught the odd ripple but my main point here is 'what's the right wetsuit for now?'.

I was absolutely fine in a 3.2mm long john with detachable arms that I didn't bother with. (These are a useful feature as if you ever lose an arm to a shark it won't ruin your wetsuit.)

Most people out there were in full suits but no hoods or gloves - no idea on the thickness.

So if you see some waves out there - suit up and go play - you will not be cold. Show more