1. **Thermal Insulation**: Wetsuits are designed to provide thermal insulation. They are usually made of foamed neoprene and work by using body temperature to warm up the thin layer of water that each wetsuit allows in. This helps keep the wearer warm in conditions where they would otherwise lose body heat rapidly due to heat transfer by relatively large quantities of water.

2. **Protection**: Wetsuits offer protection from various elements. They protect the wearer from abrasion, ultraviolet exposure, and stings from marine organisms. They also provide protection from the ocean floor and from your surfboard.

3. **Buoyancy**: Wetsuits contribute extra buoyancy. The bubbles enclosed within the neoprene foam give the wetsuit a low density, providing buoyancy in water.

4. **Extended Water Time**: Wetsuits allow surfers to spend more time in the water. They extend the time surfers can spend in the waves, which is always a bonus if you want to get maximum time in the sea without feeling cold and uncomfortable.

5. **Year-Round Surfing**: Wetsuits enable surfers to surf in places and regions all year-round, where it simply would not be possible otherwise.

These features make wetsuits an essential piece of gear for surfers and others engaged in water sports and activities in or on water