A splash of colour: colourful helmets and suits add some pizazz to water sports
19/8/2025
Translation: Megan Cornish
Pictures: Siri Schubert
Black neoprene and dark helmets form the classic water sports uniform. But now there’s some colour on the scene. I tested out colourful gear from brands Mystic and Ensis – and I’m impressed by the look and quality.
There’s no question: when it comes to water sports equipment, functionality matters more than appearance. But if the quality’s right, why not have something colourful? Colours such as pink, red and orange also increase visibility on the water, boosting safety.
For me, the pink clothing and helmet fit the action and fun – but obviously that’s personal choice. If you prefer something more subtle, you can also find the items I mention here in other colours (including black).
Ensis Rider helmet
I chose the Rider helmet from Ensis. The design and fit immediately appealed to me. Since I’ve already had good experiences with Ensis boards, wings and foils, it was an easy decision.
According to the manufacturer, the Rider helmet’s equipped with highly absorbent foam for repeated impacts and is said to offer very good protection. Fortunately, I haven’t had to put it through a full endurance test yet; the thick yet comfortable padding and the hard shell makes me feel safe while wing and pump foiling.
I also like that I can adjust the helmet so it fits over my neoprene hood in winter and still fits well without the extra layer in summer. The helmet uses technology from WIP, a manufacturer which has been developing protective gear for water sports for a decade.
If you like, you can add ear pads, but I prefer helmets without them. In very cold water, I prefer earplugs made specifically for water sports, such as Surf Ears.
Weighing just 380 grammes, the Rider’s very light and comfortable to wear. The drainage holes are positioned so that water drains away quickly. In sunny weather, the small visor protects against excessive glare without obstructing visibility. The comfort is a definite plus, as I like wearing a helmet that I barely notice.
Mystic impact protection vest
When wing and pump foiling – as well as wake surfing – I wear an impact vest to protect myself from unplanned collisions with the board or the carbon wings. An impact vest isn’t a substitute for a life jacket, as it doesn’t provide the 50 Newton buoyancy required for Swiss lakes.
I don’t venture more than 300 metres from shore while pump foiling, so I’m not legally required to wear a life jacket. Nevertheless, I appreciate the extra buoyancy provided by Mystic’s Zodiac Impact Vest. The padding also protects me from bumps and knocks from any accidental collisions with the board or foil.
The vest is cut quite tight around the waist. I like the fit because it doesn’t ride up even when I fall into the water. But it might not be right for you if you prefer a looser fit. A special bonus: the vest is reversible. This allows you to choose between colourful and understated. At least in terms of style and colour, it’s two vests in one.
Colourful Mystic neoprene shorty
Opinions differ on wetsuits for foiling. Some people always wear a long suit, while others go out in swim trunks or a bikini in the summer. When I started foiling, I preferred a full-body suit for added cut protection.
Having gained a bit of experience, I’m now more flexible. A neoprene shorty is just right for my foil sessions on Lake Silvaplana in 16-degree water. My current favourite is the Mystic Lunar BK Longarm. At two millimetres thick, it provides enough warmth in the cool lake, but I still don’t break a sweat when I’m pump foiling.
The material’s extremely stretchy, ensuring a comfortable fit. It also offers full freedom of movement if you didn’t quite make it to the dock and need to paddle or swim back.
I really like the shimmery surface and colour. The Mystic Lunar Shorty’s also available in more subtle colours such as green and black. I prefer the back zip, but if you prefer yours at the front, that’s available too.
These are just a few examples of the colourful water sports clothing in our product range. Not found what you’re looking for? Maybe you’ll find something you prefer here.
Header image: Siri Schubert
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
2 comments
later