Mastering Wetsuit Sizes: Essential Guide for Surfers
Intro
Choosing the right wetsuit is an essential part of surfboarding. It affects comfort, performance, and the overall experience in the water. Many surfers face challenges with sisizing and fit. While surfboards and surf techniques are often discussed, wetsuits deserve equal attention. This guide aims to explain failures that can occur along the process, along with practical tips on how to avoid them. The insights in this article align with both novices and experienced surfers, guiding them through the world of wetsuit size charts and the variables that influence proper fit and function.
Understanding how different styles of wetsuits work for various conditions will lead one to make an informed decision. Such knowledge is vital when selecting the perfect wetsuit. The key points addressed here will include measurement techniques, considerations for various body sizes and shapes, as well as troubleshooting sizing challenges. In the following sections, we will also touch lightly on the related elements such as surfboarding techniques, maintenance of surfgear, and tips for choosing the right equipment. While the primary focus remains on wetsuits, broader information related to surfboarding serves to educate and aid enthusiasts.
Surfboarding Techniques
Wetsuit sizing goes beyond just dimensions. Understanding surfing techniques and the kind of surf you participate in can also affect what kind of wetsuit you should consider. Techniques like pop-up and bottom turns provide context. Different waves and surfing environments warrant different equipment decisions. For instance, the style might vary based on the waves encountered: small, rolling waves invite a shorty wetsuit, more drastic conditions need a full ankle-length model. The general dynamic in various waves influences performance closely tied to your wetsuit choice.
Types of Waves
Considering wave types is fundamental. Each wave structure influences performance:
- Beach Breaks: Fast-moving, often dumping waves. Short wetsuits may be preferable due to the warm conditions.
- Reef Breaks: These waves are riskier, enabling fancier maneuvers but demanding durability often found in thicker to prevent injuries from corals.
- Point Breaks: They lend themselves more to control, providing an opportunity for longer surf sessions, thus emphasizing thermal needs based on condition.
The above elements must align with the most appropriate wetsuit for the surf conditions you might encounter consistently.
Pop up Technique
To solidify skills in the pop-up maneuver, surfers also need a snug wetsuit that offers enough flexibility speed during this critical phase. An excelently-sized wetsuit backs its wearer, giving them support but not restricting motion.
Bottom Turn Maneuver
Some surfers engaged in advanced techniques enabled by proper wetsuit fit can achieve tighter turn angles for explosive quickness and control on the board. This adds layers to the competitive edge every surfers seeks to hone.
Duck Diving
Duck diving is a common technique when dealing with incoming waves to get beneath the surface. A wetsuit that's well-fitted helps to lessen resistance through typography, quite helpful as one dives under powerful waves.
Cutback
Finally, cutbacks require flair that depends on how wieldy you can move. A wetsuit adapted seamlessly can provide enabling grace during such moves where surfer must plan their timing within the wave conditions.
Investing in a good wetsuit could mean real changes when engaging techniques associated with surfboard movement in conjunction with diversifying stances.
"In the context of various surfing scenarios, the wetsuit shouldn’t simply fit; it must synergize with your movement dynamics in every maneuver."
Choosing the correct wetsuit size and type revolves around understanding how these techniques apply to the surfer's performance. The next section will touch on aspects of surfboard maintenance, thereby enhancing the longevity of both the board and wetsuit.
Surfboard Maintenance and Care
(At this point incorporate detailed aspects on caring for dedicated surf gear, emphasizing overlap and benefit for surfer and their equipment.)
Prologue to Wetsuit Sizing
Selecting the right wetsuit size is crucial for anyone involved in surfboarding. It affects not only comfort but also performance in the water. Understanding wetsuit sizing helps surfers choose a suit that fits properly, enhancing their surf experience. Improper fitting wetsuits can lead to a myriad of issues, like reduced flexibility or even bodily discomfort during prolonged use.
Importance of Proper Fit
A proper fit in a wetsuit serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it ensures thermal protection from cold water while maintaining adequate mobility. When a wetsuit fits snugly without being restrictive, it allows the wearer to paddle efficiently and maneuver on their board. Anyone who's surfed with a loose or overly tight wetsuit knows it’s difficult to concentrate on riding waves when focusing on adjusting fitting issues instead.
Moreover, a well-fitted wetsuit minimizes water entry, retaining warmth and allowing the surfer to maintain core body temperature. In short, proper fit = higher comfort and better performance.
Common Misconceptions About Wetsuit Sizes
Many people make assumptions about how to size a wetsuit. One common misconception is that larger sizes mean greater comfort; this idea is misleading. Larger wetsuits tend to allow too much water inside, negating its insulating properties. Another mistaken belief is that the suit will stretch over time, achieving a perfect fit. While some elasticity exists, a wetsuit isn’t meant to be oversized. It’s critical to start with a win-win fit from the beginning. Furthermore, there is a lack of understanding regarding brand-specific sizing variations. Two brands may label the same size differently, leading consumers to purchase incorrectly.
Ultimately, knowing some facts about how wetsuits are sized can enhance the overall surfing experience. This article aims to unravel these misunderstandings and make the process clearer for surfboarding enthusiasts.
Understanding Wetsuit Size Charts
Choosing the right wetsuit is crucial for surfers. Wetsuit size charts play a key role in ensuring the proper fit, which directly impacts comfort, performance, and thermal protection. Whether you are a novice or seasoned surfer, understanding these charts helps in making informed decisions. With clarity on how sizes are determined and the metrics involved, one can avoid common pitfalls.
How Wetsuit Sizes are Determined
Wetsuit sizes are largely based on a combination of body measurements and manufacturer standards. Sizes may differ by brand, as each may have unique sizing ratios.
To begin, the general process starts by taking your physical measurements, including height and weight. By combining these values with standardized templates, brands categorize suits into specific sizes. Many brands incorporate feedback from various surfers. Experinced users recognize that calls for better fit lead to adjustments in styling or sizing charts.
Key Metrics Used in Sizing
To find the proper wetsuit size, one needs to focus on specific metrics which significantly affect the fit. The primary measurements involved are:
Height
Height is one of the crucial dimensions for selecting a wetsuit. It establishes the correct torso length of the suit. A properly sized wetsuit allows freedom of movement, especially during paddling.
The key characteristic of height in sizing charts is straightforward— suit length from shoulder to ankle is essential to avoid restriction. Higher surfers may find shorter suits tend to fit poorly. However, going down a size for a better waist fit could leave you uncomfortable up top. This complexity highlights why height plays a major role in fit.
Weight
Weight influences buoyancy and insulation. Generally, a heavier build requires thicker suit material. The wetsuit must effectively compress to conform to the user’s body, ensuring a solid fit.
A critical aspect of the weight metric, therefore, is ensuring the suit can efficiently transfer your body heat to minimize loss while still offering enough second-skin comfort. However, excessive weight beyond what’s standard size can lead to unnecessary bulk and reduce maneuverability.
Chest Size
Chest measurement aids in providing a snug fit around the torso. With a correct chest size, surfers can expect good insulation in cold waters while remaining free to paddle.
Knowing this metric ensures that there isnt excess material restricting upper body movements. Wearers finding a good fit may benefit from additional thermal coverage affecting performance in challenging conditions. If too loose, extra water finds its way into the suit. Thus, selecting the right chest measurement propels a stronger performance.
Wrist and Ankle Measurement
Wrist and ankle measurements necessitate proper fit to reduce water intake. A secure circumference permits ease and fluidity limb movement, while tightly fitting areas serve crucial insulation roles.
Oftentimes overlooked, these dimensions matter, especially since many times paddling and executing maneuvers depend on the connection of wetsuit extremities. Ill-fitting wrists or ankles could lead to cold water entering the suit and chilling the body too quickly. The overall hydrodynamics can be impaired if these parts don’t form a snug seal.
Understanding how each of these metrics influences wetsuit sizing ensures you choose a suit that meets your individual surfing needs.
By correctly scrutinizing these varying proportions every surfer can gain clarity. It's vital to perceive that getting the right size hinges on much more than matching an arbitrary label. Mastering your size chart will lead to enhanced comfort and performance in those exhilarating sea waves.
Measurement Techniques for Accurate Sizing
Correct measurement is vital when selecting a wetsuit. The right fit ensures comfort, flexibility, and performance in the water, particularly in the dynamic environment of surfboarding. Media coverage and industry standards might highlight various wetsuit attributes, yet the gravitas of personal sizing often gets overlooked. Many surf fans contribute this oversight to lack of knowledge or the clash of generic sizes many brands use. However, equivalent resources exist to rectify this.
Tools Required for Measurement
You will require a few simple tools to capture the important measurements accurately. Gather the following:
- A soft measuring tape. Fabric tape is preferred as it conforms easier to the body.
- A sturdy mirror to check whether you hold the measuring tape correctly.
- A clipboard or notepad to jot down measurements as you take them, helping you stay organized.
It is essential to ensure that your measuring tape is as level as possible to achieve precise readings. Keeping distraction to a minimum while you measure will also help you focus.
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
Take a moment to prepare ahead for measuring. Follow this straightforward guide to obtaining your wetsuit size:
- Height Measurement: Stand against a wall. Make a mark where the top of your head rests. Measure from the floor to this point to your nearest inch.
- Weight Measurement: Ideally, measure your weight first thing in the morning. This practice ensures consistency and encourages accuracy.
- Chest Size: Measure around the widest part of your chest with arms down. Ensure that the tape is snug but not tight. Note the measurement to the nearest inch.
- Wrist Measurement: For this, you need to measure around your wrist at the base where the wrist meets the hand. This helps ensure the suit won't be too constrictive around the wrists.
- Ankle Measurement: Similar to wrist measurement. Measure around the base of your ankle with the same snugness.
Adhering to these steps will render the best results when interpreting the wetsuit size chart. Be mindful that inaccuracies due to not measuring correctly may stray you from the right fit.
Evaluating Wetsuit Fit
Evaluating wetsuit fit is essential in maximizing performance and comfort for surfboarding enthusiasts. A well-fitting wetsuit not only ensures warmth but also allows for greater mobility in the water. An improper fit can lead to water entry and discomfort, ultimately affecting one’s surfing experience.
What to Look for in a Good Fit
When trying on a wetsuit, pay attention to the following aspects:
- Snugness: The wetsuit should fit snuggly against the body. Look for no significant gaps around the wrist, ankles, and neck.
- Flexibility: Ensure that you can move freely. Bend your knees, reach your arms above your head, and observe how the suit conforms to your movements. You want to have comfort without being overly tight.
- Chest Area: A well-fitting wetsuit supports the chest area without restricting breathing. Take deep breaths to gauge comfort.
- Length: Much depends on your height, but the suit should reach just above your ankles and wrists. A short suit can lead to cold water trickling in.
- No Folding or Bunching: Make sure there are no folds or bunches when you move. Each part of the wetsuit must sit flat against your body to avoid water entry.
These factors contribute to overall comfort and function, promoting better performance on the waves.
Signs of a Poor Fit
Recognizing the signs of a bad wetsuit fit is crucial. Here are some indicators to listen to:
- Tightness: If it feels constrictive and limits your movement, the size is likely too small.
- Gaps: Look for sagging material, as gaps indicate the wetsuit is too loose. This can lead to water flushing inside.
- Bunching: Excessive material bunching, particularly under the arms or behind the knees, can impact paddling efficiency and ease of movements.
- Water Ingress: If water is pooling inside the wetsuit rather than nicely hugging your skin, it is not correctly fitted.
Respective sizes may vary with different brands, so it's often useful to try multiple suits while considering thes signs. A well-fitted wetsuit fundamentally enhances surfboarding experience and performance effectively.
A well-fitting wetsuit is more than just comfort; it's a necessary component for ensuring efficiency and warmth in the water. Regular testing for fit ensures you meet your best surf potential, without the encumbrances of an ill-fitting suit.
Navigating Size Variations Across Brands
Understanding how different brands size their wetsuits is vital for anyone looking to invest in a quality suit. Not all brands follow the same sizing conventions. This can lead to confusion and frustration when purchasing. Brand size variations can affect your comfort and performance while surfing. Knowing how to navigate those differences allows enthusiasts to find a wetsuit that not only fits properly but also enhances their surfing experience.
Brand-Specific Sizing Guidelines
Many wetsuit manufacturers provide their unique sizing charts, often varying significantly from brand to brand. Therefore, it is necessary to consult the brand-specific guidelines before making a selection. Here are some notable points to consider:
- Measurement Metrics: While many brands use similar measurement criteria, slight differences can result in sizing that feels narrowly adjusted. Factors like where you take your chest size may differ.
- Fit Style: Brands may offer high-cut legs or different neck designs influencing how snug a wetsuit feels. Be sure to watch for how these design aspects align with your comfort levels.
- Thickness Options: The same sizing number may come with different thickness designs. This means a suit of the same size but with varied insulation might fit your body differently due to material stretch.
- Flexibility and Material: Also, brands might employ different materials affecting fit. A wetsuit from Rip Curl might feel different than one from O'Neill, despite having the same size label.
By carefully reviewing a particular brand's size chart and understanding these various elements, surfers will have an easier time selecting the correct wetsuit for their needs.
General Tips for Brand Comparisons
Comparing size charts across different wetsuit brands can be tricky. Here are some tips that may ease this process:
- Always Check Size Charts: Even two brands labeled with the same size can fit individuals very differently.
- Consider Reviews: Often, reviews from other surfers provide valuable insights into how a specific brand's sizing performs in real-world applications.
- Fitters Aid: If you're confused, visiting a retailer can save time. Staff can guide which brands and sizes run large or small.
- Try Before You Buy: Nothing beats trying on a suit in person. However, if that isn't viable—purchase from places with good return policies. You must return a badly fitting wetsuit without hassle.
"Proper fit isn't just about comfort; it's about your performance and enjoyment when shredding those waves."
Engaging these recommendations will increase your chances of choosing reasonably sized wetsuits suited to your individual surfing style. Mastering brand variability not only simplifies the selection process but promotes more enjoyable experiences when catching waves.
Tips for Trying on Wetsuits
Trying on a wetsuit is a critical step in ensuring an optimal fit. A correct fit can significantly enhance your performance and comfort while surfing. Understanding how to effectively try on wetsuits allows you to find one that feels right. A proper fit is more than just snug; it should not restrict movement or leave excess space that can reduce warmth.
Where to Try Wetsuits Effectively
Choosing the right place to try on wetsuits can make a significant difference. Here are some key considerations:
- Specialty Surf Shops: These stores typically have a knowledgeable staff who can assist you in finding the right size. They often offer a variety of wetsuits made by different brands.
- Online Retailers with Fit Guidance: Some e-commerce sites provide a size guide. You could order multiple sizes to see what fits best.
- Surf Schools: If possible, visiting a local surf school to try various sizes can offer hands-on advice influenced by experienced surfers.
Ensuring that you are comfortable in the environment will enhance your ability to get a good and honest feel for the wetsuit.
What to Wear When Trying on a Wetsuit
The clothing you wear can affect your experience when trying on a wetsuit. Consider the following tips:
- Swimwear: Wearing a swimsuit is advisable. This allows you to feel the wetsuit as close to your skin without discomfort.
- Avoid Bulky Layers: Do not wear oversized or bulky clothing. This can misalign your perception of how well the wetsuit fits.
- Bring Necessary Accessories: If you use items like knee pads or rash guards, consider wearing them when trying on the wetsuit to achieve a more accurate fit.
Important: Always check for return policies when purchasing offline or online. This allows for adjustments if things do not feel right after purchase.
Adjusting size for comfort and performance may take some time. Thus, proactively using the right testing techniques during the selection can reveal much more than an average “fit check.”
Exploring Wetsuit Styles and Their Impact on Fit
When it comes to surfboarding, the right wetsuit plays more than a consequential role; it promotes comfort as well as performance. Each wetsuit style brings unique characteristics and is tailored for different conditions and surfing styles. Therefore, understanding how these styles affect fit can directly impact your surfing experience.
Different Wetsuit Types Explained
Full Suits
Full suits cover the entire body. They are often the go-to option for colder waters.
The key characteristic of a full suit is its full-coverage design, which minimizes the amount of water that can enter the suit. This design keeps the body insulated for longer periods during chilly surf. A full suit is beneficial because it secures warmth, which is pivotal for extended sessions in the water, sustaining energy levels.
Another unique feature is the varying thickness, usually from 3mm to 5mm, making it adaptable for different cold conditions. A disadvantage might be the limited flexibility due to the more substantial material, which can hinder movement in certain elaborate maneuvers.
Shorties
Shorties feature short sleeves and legs, distinguishing them from full suits. This type attracts riders seeking agility in warmer waters.
The primary trait of shorties is their minimalistic coverage, providing an excellent balance between comfort and protection without compromising mobility. For surfboarding in summer or warmer climates, shorties excel by offering enough thermoregulation while allowing more freedom of movement.
Unique to shorties is their ability to dry quickly, reducing weight during a session. However, they are not suited for colder temperatures, meaning continued exposure to cold water can lead to discomfort or even lowering stamina, which defeats the purpose of optimal surfing.
Springsuits
Springsuits also cover most of the body but are also distinct by their unique points: long bodice, yet short sleeves or legs. This style introduces versatility in changing conditions.
Springsuits present the advantage of partly insulating the body while allowing more ventilation. This design serves well in transitional waters where temperature fluctuates. Their construction permits quicker drying and minimizes bulk compared to full suits.
Yet, springsuits may not provide enough adequacy in warmer water areas, leaving the wearer too exposed. Similarly, in bone chilling conditions, the thin edges might fail to provide enough warmth, making it less favorable in colder climates.
Drysuits
Drysuits stand apart as they remove water entry, utilizing seals at the neck, wrists, and ankles. These suits primarily find use in extreme temperatures or during cold seasons.
The distinct feature of a drysuit is its capability to keep the drinkable water outside. This trait guarantees a consistent temperature inside the suit regardless of external conditions, securing maximum thermal effectiveness, so they become a popular choice among divers or enthusiasts who do not want cold shocks.
However, they are often heavier and bulkier. Unpeeling a drysuit can be cumbersome, creating challenges in movement during surfing. They also tend to be pricier, which adds to the cost consideration for serious surfers who are budget-conscious.
Seasonal Considerations in Wetsuit Choice
Choosing a wetsuit also depends on seasonal aspects. Temperature, weather patterns, as well as location directly affect your choice. . In summer, surfers often prefer shorties due to warmer water, while winter demands full suits or drysuits for enhanced insulation. Likewise, certain regional climates require specific suits. Understanding these seasonal variables ensures efficient surfing experiences.
Maintaining Your Wetsuit
Maintaining your wetsuit is essential for extending its lifespan and ensuring optimal performance in the water. Over time, wear and tear can affect its flexibility, thermal insulations, and overall fit, directly impacting your comfort while surfing. Proper care can prevent costly replacements and enhance your enjoyment of this critical piece of surfing equipment. The way you store, wash, dry, and repair your wetsuit makes a significant difference in how long it will last.
Care Instructions to Prolong Lifespan
To prolong the lifespan of your wetsuit, follow these care instructions:
- Rinse After Use: Always rinse your wetsuit with fresh water immediately after use. This will remove salt, sand, and chlorine, which can degrade the fabric over time.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: When drying, avoid laying your wetsuit in direct sunlight. UV rays can break down neoprene, leading to cracks and loss of elasticity. Hang it to dry in a shaded area instead.
- Store Properly: When not in use, hang your wetsuit on a wide padded hanger. This prevents stretching at the shoulders and helps retain its shape. Avoid folding or cramming it into small spaces, which can create creases.
- Use Mild Soap: If you feel you need to wash your wetsuit more thoroughly, use a gentle wetsuit-specific cleaner. Harmful soaps or detergents can deteriorate the material.
Proper care and maintenance will ensure your wetsuit remains reliable and functional for many seasons to come.
Common Repairs and Maintenance Tips
Occasional minor repairs can go a long way in keeping your wetsuit in top condition. Familiarize yourself with these tips:
- Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect seams and areas of your wetsuit for leaks. Small punctures can evolve into larger issues quickly.
- Seal Small Cuts: Use neoprene glue or fabric repair patches strategically to seal any minor tears or cuts. This is straightforward and can extend the wearable life significantly.
- Avoid Rough Surfaces: Be mindful of where you place yourself in and out of the water. Avoid climbing on sharp rocks or rough edges that could tear the neoprene.
- Regular Stretching: Occasionally stretch your wetsuit gently on the hanger. It helps keep the material flexible and may prevent undesirable rigidity over time.
Following these care instructions and repair tips not only ensures the best day-to-day performance of your wetsuit but also enhances your surfing experience overall.
Understanding Wetsuit Thickness and Its Sizing Implications
Wetsuit thickness plays an essential role in surfboarding, significantly affecting both comfort and performance in water. When selecting a wetsuit, thickness is more than a number on a tag; it integrates various factors. Understanding these aspects ensures surfing enthusiasts can make informed choices aligned with their environmental conditions.
Impact of Thickness on Thermal Performance
The primary function of a wetsuit is to provide thermal insulation. The thickness of the neoprene material influences the heat retention of the wetsuit. A thicker neoprene allows less water flow through the suit, which keeps warmth trapped more efficiently. When surfers are in colder climates or exposed to icy waters, thicker wetsuits prevent hypothermia and help maintain body temperature.
It is vital to find a balance; a moderately thick wetsuit provides insulation without restricting movement.
Some common thicknesses include:
- 3/2 mm (3mm thickness on the torso, 2mm on limbs) is popular for cooler waters.
- 4/3 mm (4mm torso, 3mm limbs) is suitable for colder regions.
- 5/4 mm is meant for even more extreme cold.
Understanding when to use these thicknesses impacts performance directly, ensuring surfers remain agile during movement while gaining thermal protection.
Choosing Thickness Based on Water Temperature
Selecting the right wetsuit thickness should be based on the water temperature where one plans to surf. Different thicknesses correspond to specific temperature ranges:
- Warm Water (above 20°C/68°F): A thinner suit, such as a 2mm or shorty. It allows maximum flexibility and ease of motion.
- Mild Water (15-20°C/59-68°F): A 3/2 mm wetsuit provides adequate protection while allowing for comfortable movement.
- Cold Water (10-15°C/50-59°F): A 4/3 mm suit is preferable to help maintain body heat during longer sessions.
- Very Cold Water (below 10°C/50°F): A 5/4 mm wetsuit is vital for surfing in extremely chilly waters. The added thickness substantially enhances thermal performance.
Surfers should also consider how long they plan to stay in the water. For extended periods in colder temperatures, thicker suits provide necessary warmth, while for quick sport sessions in warmer conditions, lighter wetsuits are more desirable. Taking water temperatures into account helps prevent uncomfortable experiences such as chills or stiffness.
Understanding wetsuit thickness allows surfers to choose wisely, enhancing not only their comfort but their performance as well.
Overall, assessing thickness in wetsuit choices involves understanding both thermal performance requirements and individual water temperature conditions. These considerations are crucial for any surfboarding enthusiast to maximize enjoyment and safety in their chosen environment.
Epilogue
In order to maximize performance and comfort while surfing, it's essential to understand wetsuit sizing. A well-fitted wetsuit can greatly enhance your experience in the water. Not only can it help maintain your body warmth, but it also allows for better movement, reducing fatigue and increasing enjoyment while you're out riding waves.
Final Thoughts on Wetsuit Sizing
The journey to obtaining the right wetsuit starts with understanding sizing charts. These charts often take into account various metrics, offering a quick reference that suits many individual body types. The importance of careful measurement should not be overlooked. It's about understanding your dimensions. Measurements might seem simplistic, but they very much dictate the suitability of a wetsuit's fit.
That being said, it is also crucial to recognize how different brands can vary in their sizing due to manufacturing differences. Brand checks and comparisons are central. Always pay attention to reviews and testing considerations from customers as this can assist in navigating inconsistent sizing across several manufacturers.
Key points to remember are:
- Ensure an accurate measurement before purchasing.
- Know brand-specific dimensions that can inform more informed decisions.
- Regularly assess your wetsuit fit as your body may change over time.
Encouragement to Invest in Proper Sizing
Investing in a properly sized wetsuit can significantly affect not just performance, but also safety in the water. With adequate warmth and comfort in the water, you will find that your surfing craft improves, allowing you to push your skills further.
Comfort goes beyond aesthetic appeal, as an appropriate fit directly influences your athletic performance. Why settle for subpar conditions when a simple size investment can better your experience? Opting for sizes based on inaccurate judgments can result in sacrificing performance. The right size ensures the wetsuit not only protects against elements but doesn’t impede your athletic movements.
To conclude, a fitting wetsuit fosters prolonging your time engage with surfboarding. For novices and veterans alike, the emphasis should be on the attention to detail during the decision-making process.
Remember, the benefits of a well-fitted wetsuit far outweigh the time and effort spent to ensure that the size is correct. Performance, enjoyment, and safety should never be compromised.
