Yamamoto limestone rubber is chosen for its superior quality and eco-friendliness. It offers enhanced flexibility, durability, and thermal insulation compared to traditional petroleum-based neoprene. It's also more sustainable as it reduces the reliance on oil and lowers the carbon footprint in the manufacturing process. YAMAMOTO has been using 100% limestone-based Chloroprene Rubber made  from Mt. Kurohime, Japan,  which stores over a billion tons of the purest limestone. Out of such pure limestone, YAMAMOTO uses only the highest-grade containing 99.7% of calcium carbonate and then manufactures the rubber using renewable sources such as hydroelectricity. Limestone neoprene has a high micro-cell structure. These are closed cells within the neoprene that are packed together at an extremely high density.

Yamamoto limestone rubber provides increased stretch, better heat retention, and improved resistance to abrasion. This translates to a more comfortable and efficient wetsuit, allowing for extended sessions in the water. The rubber's eco-friendly production process also aligns with environmentally conscious values.

Yes, limestone neoprene is generally considered to be warmer than traditional petroleum-based neoprene. This is due to the unique properties of limestone neoprene and the way it is manufactured.

Limestone neoprene is made from calcium carbonate extracted from limestone rock, as opposed to petroleum-based neoprene which is derived from crude oil. The manufacturing process of limestone neoprene allows for better control over the foam's cell structure and density, resulting in neoprene with enhanced thermal insulation properties. Here are a few reasons why limestone neoprene is often considered warmer:

1. Improved Insulation: Limestone neoprene can be formulated to have smaller and more consistent closed-cell bubbles, which trap a greater amount of insulating air. This helps to retain body heat and provide better thermal protection in colder water.
2. Greater Flexibility: Limestone neoprene is known for its high stretch and flexibility, which can create a better seal against the skin. A snug and well-fitting wetsuit minimizes water circulation inside the suit, thus helping to maintain a warmer body temperature.
3. Reduced Water Absorption: Limestone neoprene tends to have lower water absorption compared to petroleum-based neoprene. This means that less water is trapped inside the wetsuit, reducing the cooling effect of evaporative heat loss.
4. Eco-Friendly Properties: In addition to its warmth benefits, limestone neoprene is often considered more environmentally friendly due to its production process, which reduces dependency on petroleum and decreases the carbon footprint.

Smooth skin rubber features a smooth, hydrophobic exterior that minimizes water absorption, providing excellent wind resistance and added warmth. Mesh skin rubber, on the other hand, has a textured surface that allows for better water flow, aiding in cooling during intense activities. Choosing between the two depends on your specific water and weather conditions.

To protect your neoprene wetsuit, avoid exposure to direct sunlight for extended periods, as UV rays can degrade the material over time. Additionally, be cautious when handling sharp objects or rough surfaces to prevent tears or punctures. Regularly rinsing and cleaning your wetsuit after use can help maintain its integrity.

Hang your wetsuit on a wide, padded hanger in a cool, dry place. Avoid folding or creasing the neoprene, as this can lead to permanent creases and reduced flexibility. Make sure the wetsuit is completely dry before storing to prevent mold or mildew growth.

Limestone neoprene, like traditional petroleum-based neoprene, can develop creases or folds when the wetsuit is stored or folded for extended periods. Creasing occurs due to the nature of the material and its memory properties. While creases in neoprene, including limestone neoprene, may not completely go away, there are ways to minimize and manage them:

1. Proper Storage:
Store your wetsuit on a wide, padded hanger to minimize the creation of creases. Avoid folding the wetsuit in a way that causes sharp creases, as these can be more challenging to reduce.

2. Gentle Handling:
When putting on or taking off the wetsuit, be mindful of how you handle the material. Avoid pulling or stretching it forcefully, as this can lead to creases.

3. Warm Water Treatment:
Sometimes, gently soaking the wetsuit in warm water (not hot) can help relax the neoprene and reduce minor creases. After soaking, hang the wetsuit properly to dry.

4. Wear and Movement:
Wearing the wetsuit during water activities can help the neoprene conform to your body's shape and reduce the appearance of creases over time.

5. Avoid Sun Exposure:
Direct sunlight and heat can exacerbate creasing, so avoid leaving your wetsuit in the sun for prolonged periods.

6. Be Patient:
While creases may not completely disappear, they often become less noticeable as the neoprene molds to your body and gets broken in through use.

Remember that neoprene is a flexible and resilient material, and minor creasing is a normal part of wetsuit use. The focus should be on maintaining the wetsuit's overall performance and comfort rather than eliminating every crease.

After each use, rinse your wetsuit with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and other debris. For a thorough cleaning, soak it in lukewarm water with a mild wetsuit-specific cleaner, then gently scrub the inside and outside with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and hang to dry.

Yes, it's recommended to rinse your wetsuit with fresh water after every use. Saltwater, sand, and other contaminants can degrade the neoprene over time if left untreated. Rinsing helps prolong the life of your wetsuit and ensures it remains comfortable and effective.

Yes, there are ways to mend minor tears in a wetsuit to extend its lifespan and maintain its functionality. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to repair minor tears in neoprene:

Materials Needed:

• Neoprene adhesive or repair kit (specifically designed for wetsuits)
• Clean cloth or sponge
• Isopropyl alcohol or wetsuit cleaner
• Fine-grit sandpaper (optional)
• Disposable gloves (optional)

Repair Steps:

• Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean the torn area and its surroundings with a clean cloth or sponge dampened with isopropyl alcohol or wetsuit cleaner. This will help remove any dirt, oils, or residues that could interfere with the adhesive.
• Trim Loose Threads: If the tear has any loose threads or frayed edges, carefully trim them with scissors to create a clean edge.
• Prepare the Neoprene Adhesive: Follow the instructions on the neoprene adhesive or repair kit to prepare it for use. Some adhesives may require mixing or activation before application.
• Apply the Adhesive: Apply a thin, even layer of neoprene adhesive to both sides of the tear. Make sure to extend the adhesive slightly beyond the torn area to ensure a strong bond. If the tear is larger, you may apply adhesive to a patch of neoprene that can cover the tear.
• Press and Hold: Gently press the torn edges together or place the patch over the tear, ensuring a snug fit. Hold the edges together or the patch in place for the time specified in the adhesive's instructions. This usually ranges from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the adhesive type.
• Allow to Cure: After the adhesive has cured, check if the bond is secure. If needed, you can use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth any excess adhesive and create a neater appearance.
• Inspect and Test: Once the adhesive has fully cured, inspect the repair to ensure it's securely bonded. If the tear was near a seam or stress point, gently stretch the area to test the repair's strength and flexibility.

Note:

• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions on the neoprene adhesive or repair kit for the best results.
• Some repair kits may include pre-cut neoprene patches that can be used to cover larger tears or reinforce weak spots.
• It's recommended to perform a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area of the wetsuit before applying adhesive to the tear to ensure compatibility and adhesion.

Keep in mind that while minor repairs can help prolong the life of your wetsuit, they may not provide the same level of durability as the original material. If the tear is extensive or located in a high-stress area, it's advisable to consult a professional wetsuit repair service for more comprehensive repairs.

The gluing of seams is a traditional wetsuit manufacturing technique applied to high quality wetsuits to retain warmth and stop water leaking between the panels. The gluing is done by hand and is an intricate and very customised process.

The corsetry and gill details are signature Dion Lee features that directly connect to design language seen within Dion’s iconic fashion collections. The women’s pieces within the collection that incorporate these features are designed first for surf and water use in warmer climates and seasons, however also sit in a hybrid swim / surf / ready to wear category and can be worn separately as a fashion item if desired.

Choosing the right size for a wetsuit is essential to ensure comfort, proper fit, and optimal performance. Whether to size up or down depends on various factors, including the wetsuit's design, brand, your body measurements, and personal preferences. Here's a general guideline to help you decide whether to size up or down:

Sizing Up:

• Sizing up is often recommended if you're between two sizes or if your measurements fall on the cusp of a size chart.
• If you have broader shoulders, a larger chest, or more muscular limbs, sizing up can provide a more comfortable fit in those areas.
• A slightly looser wetsuit may allow for better range of motion and flexibility, which can be beneficial for activities like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
• Sizing up can also accommodate additional layers underneath the wetsuit, such as rash guards or thermal layers, for added warmth in colder conditions.

Sizing Down:

• Sizing down is advisable if your measurements fall within the lower end of a size chart and you prefer a snug and streamlined fit.
• A well-fitted wetsuit should be snug but not overly tight. A tighter fit can help minimize water flushing, which occurs when water enters the suit and cools your body.
• For water sports that require more agility and reduced drag, such as swimming, a closer-fitting wetsuit can provide better hydrodynamics.
• Keep in mind that neoprene can stretch slightly over time with use, so a snug fit initially may become even more comfortable after a few sessions.

Additional Tips:

• Always consult the specific size chart provided by the wetsuit manufacturer. Each brand may have slightly different sizing guidelines.
• Consider trying on the wetsuit before purchasing, if possible. This can give you a better sense of how it fits and whether it's comfortable for your body type.
• Pay attention to the fit around key areas such as shoulders, chest, waist, hips, and legs. The wetsuit should allow for comfortable movement without excessive bunching or sagging.

Ultimately, the ideal sizing choice depends on your personal preferences, intended activities, and how you prioritize comfort, mobility, and thermal insulation. If you're unsure, it's often a good idea to consult with the manufacturer's customer support or seek advice from experienced wetsuit retailers who can provide tailored recommendations based on your needs.