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A well made, properly fitted wetsuit goes a long way in maximizing your enjoyment of water sports. Whether you’re involved in scuba, jet skiing, surfing or triathlons, there are things you should consider before investing in high-tech water gear. Start with these 7 questions:

• What is the chief purpose for my suit? Is it warmth, protection from abrasions, buoyancy, or protection from the sun? Buy gear specifically suited for your sport.

• What price range can I afford? Do your homework, and don’t forget to factor in shipping costs and the value of a good warranty. Luxury wetsuits come with extra features. Look for a design you can live with at a price you can afford. A Billabong wetsuit such as the Solution Gold 5/4/3 mm Steamer, for example, is a full bodysuit treated with Dry Max Coating and made with the company’s second generation Superflex neoprene - reportedly “the most advanced stretch material on the market today.” The wetsuit also features Gold Hollow Fiber Brushed Tricot Thermal Material in the back and chest panel. It runs in the $245 range. You can find an O Neill wetsuit or a Ripcurl wetsuit with similar features.

• Is the wetsuit made of multi-directional fabric that will give in the right places, allowing ease of movement? Surfers need a wetsuit with super-stretch neoprene (30-100%) to allow for mobility while throwing tricks. A jet ski junkie in New England, however, might be looking for a suit that conserves body heat - something with thicker neoprene specs.

• Where are seams placed on the wetsuit? Chafing is a real issue, especially when raw skin and salt water kiss. Body gear suitable for windsurfing might not be comfortable for surfers who have to paddle their boards out to meet waves. Take note of seam placement. Also look for terms like “flat-lock stitching,” which is appropriate for warm water above 62 degrees F. “Glued and blind-stitched seams” are narrower and seal out cold water 55 degrees F and up. “Sealed and taped seams” add increased durability and prevent seepage in water below 55 degrees F.

• Do I need a warm or a cool-water suit? Is the material light enough for scorching days at El Martillo or designed for semi-dry protection needed for kayaking Alaska’s waterways in the fall? Check the thickness of the material which usually ranges from 2 millimeters of neoprene for warm-weather suits up to 4-6 millimeters of material for cold-water environments.

• Do I need booties, gloves or a hood? They’ll add to the cost.

• Is the suit loose, snug or tight? Snug is where you want to be. If it’s too tight, your movements will be restricted and you will chafe. If it’s too loose, heat conservation will be minimized, and the bodysuit may slide around hindering range of motion. Pay close attention to sizing charts. If possible, go to a store and try the wetsuit on. Many reputable businesses let you try out the wetsuit in the water and permit size exchanges.