Table 1 General sewing method for wetsuits (Wetsuit Buying Guide 2018)

Overlock stitch

This is the simplest method used to sew wet suits and has very strong durability. This sewing technique is often used when sewing wetsuits with fabric thicknesses of less than 3 mm and maintains body temperature in the water during the summer. However, this technique is not used in high quality wetsuits because the two edges of the panel are rolled together to form a seam, which significantly reduces the seam’s flexibility. It is also ineffective in preventing the absorption of water, and the bulges in the seams of the wetsuit may cause discomfort for the wearer

Flat lock stitch

This stitch is suitable for summer or a warm water temperature and is a sewing method in which two different pieces of fabric are cut into a slit and then stitched firmly on both the inside and the outside. It is used in a wet suit comprised of fabric with a thickness of less than 3 mm and is excellent in terms of skin friction, comfort, and activity through sewing. It is also referred to as 4-needle sewing, as it entails a procedure whereby two materials are stacked and stitched with 3–4 needles. A strong seam is easier to produce using this method than that of blind stitch and the cost is low because it is faster. Increased stretch at the seam allows for the neoprene’s flexibility, but water can penetrate through the holes created by the needle, so it is better to use this technique for a wetsuit that will be worn in warm water

Glued and blind-stitched

An adhesive combined with the blind stitch sewing method is suitable for cold water temperatures. This sewing technique is performed by gluing the panels and then sewing with a blind stitch on the outside, but the stitches do not completely pass through the panel, so no holes are created. This method allows very little water penetration, results in a flexible joint, and is used in advanced quality wet suits suitable for use during the winter or summer. Blind stitches are used on clothing with thicknesses of more than 3 mm. After each panel is glued with adhesive, the seams are sewn to ensure that the seams stick together. Because the needle passes through only half of the panel, there is a smooth appearance on one side