Booties

Half the battle is getting an appropriately thick wetsuit that will keep you plenty warm. The second half is making sure to get the right wetsuit accessories to keep you comfortable on those cold, blustery days. Having gloves, boots, and headwear is essential to staying warm, preventing the heat retained from your insulating wetsuit from escaping through your head and extremities. Anybody who has forgotten their booties or gloves on a cold day can attest to how that can significantly shorten a session.

Booties

Booties are essential for anyone who wants to enjoy watersports in the spring, fall, and (shudder) winter. For waters below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, a 5mm bootie is standard. A split toe boot will be sectioned, one part for your big toe, and one for the rest of your toes. This design has greater foot stability inside the boot, as your foot won't slide around on the inside. A round toe will be warmer, and fit more like a traditional shoe. A high cut (HC) boot can be tucked under your wetuit for total coverage, keeping your ankles warm. A low cut tends to be used in areas with rock and reef walking, serving more as a protective wetsuit shoe.