Kuhane Size Guide: How to Choose Your Perfect Size
A poorly fitting wetsuit is worse than no wetsuit at all. If it's too big, cold water constantly flushes in; if it's too small, it restricts paddling and causes fatigue. This guide explains how to find the exact size for your body.
How wetsuit sizing works
Unlike regular clothes, wetsuits should fit snugly, like a second skin. That doesn't mean uncomfortable — it means no air pockets or wrinkles. The space between the neoprene and your body is where cold water enters. Less space, less water, more warmth.
Kuhane size chart
| Size | Height | Weight | Chest |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 160–167 cm | 55–65 kg | 86–91 cm |
| S | 166–172 cm | 63–72 kg | 91–96 cm |
| M | 170–176 cm | 70–80 kg | 96–101 cm |
| L | 175–181 cm | 78–88 kg | 101–106 cm |
| XL | 180–186 cm | 85–95 kg | 106–112 cm |
| XXL | 184–190 cm | 92–105 kg | 112–118 cm |
How to check if the wetsuit fits well
Signs of a good fit:
- You can close the chest zip without assistance.
- There are no fabric pockets in the lumbar area or at the knees.
- When you squat down and extend your arms, the suit remains wrinkle-free.
- The initial sensation is one of uniform pressure, not constriction in any area.
If you are between two sizes
The Kuhane rule: size up if you are unsure about weight; size down if you are unsure about height. A long torso is harder to correct than a tight chest. Yamamoto #40 has 30% more stretch than standard neoprene, meaning a snug size will adapt to the body within 2-3 sessions.
How Yamamoto adapts to the body
Conventional neoprene has low elastic memory — it tends to deform. Yamamoto #40, with its closed-cell structure, maintains its shape session after session. This means the initial fit is the permanent fit. Do not expect the suit to stretch significantly with use.
Frequently asked questions
Can I request a size exchange if I made a mistake? Yes, within 15 days of receipt, unused and in original packaging.
Does the wetsuit shrink when washed? No. Yamamoto does not shrink with cold washing. Avoid hot water.
How do I correctly measure my chest? Measure the circumference at the widest point of your chest, with your arms relaxed at your sides.