In this article:
- Finding the Ideal Wetsuit for a Challenging Wave Pool
- Discovering Lost Shore Surf Resort
- GUL’s Journey: Innovating the DOT Series Wetsuit
- Key Features of the Dot Series
- The Surf Lab Testing Process
- Pushing Limits: Continuous Improvements
- Becoming the Official Lost Shore Wetsuit Partner
- A Vision for the Future of Inland Surfing
How do you find the perfect wetsuit for the world’s most challenging wave pool?
About a year before its grand opening, Lost Shore Surf Resort reached out to us at GUL, alongside eight other market leading wetsuit brands to tender for a unique partnership.
The goal? To find the ideal wetsuit for the newly-opened Lost Shore Wave Pool, the most northerly wave pool in the world, where the demanding conditions require optimal wetsuit thermoregulation.
After a rigorous evaluation process, five brands made the cut (among those being us here at GUL) and entered an intense testing phase at Edinburgh Napier University’s Surf Lab.
The focus was to identify the best wetsuit for the first inland surf resort in the world, and we were determined to deliver.
Who Are Lost Shore Surf Resort?
Imagine an abandoned quarry reimagined into a wave rider’s dream—a place where innovation and nature meet to create endless surf.
Nestled near Edinburgh, Lost Shore is no ordinary surf spot. It’s the world’s first inland surf resort with a mission to be “passionately inclusive”—a place for everyone to experience the thrill of the waves.
At the heart of this surf oasis is Europe’s largest wave pool, a marvel three times the size of Wembley football pitch, capable of producing up to 1,000 waves per hour. Lost Shore took what was once an abandoned industrial quarry and transformed it into a haven for surfers, powered by Wavegarden Cove technology that uses ten times less energy than standard wave systems.
Opening its doors in November 2024, Lost Shore established itself as a sustainably-focused resort. They harness green energy from solar and wind power, pushing forward their commitment to eco-friendly surf experiences.
In line with these values, they sought a wetsuit partner that shared their focus on sustainability, performance, and inclusivity.
GUL Steps Up: Innovating the DOT Series Wetsuit
At GUL, we’ve been at the forefront of wetsuit innovation since 1967. Born in Cornwall, we’ve built our reputation on a deep understanding of what surfers need and on listening to feedback from riders around the world.
When Lost Shore approached us to be part of their journey, we knew we could bring something special to the table.
However, when that call came, we weren’t quite ready. COVID-19 naturally restrained our surf school wetsuit business, and our existing wetsuits didn’t yet meet the requirements of Lost Shore’s project.
Instead of stepping back, we took the opportunity to innovate—to create something specifically tailored for the frigid waters of Scotland. We rolled up our sleeves, gathered our team, and redesigned our wetsuit from the ground up.
The result? The DOT Series Wetsuit—built for cold waters and aligned with the future of sustainable surfing.
Meet the Features of the DOT Series; Taking our Learnings & Knowhow from our iconic Response Series
Our DOT Series wetsuit stands out due to several key features:
- Zip Construction: We used glued-in zips rather than stitched ones, eliminating the risk of water leakage. This means surfers stay dry, even when the waves are relentless.
- Powertex4 Knee Pads: Durability matters, especially for school and centre use. The DOT Series incorporates four-way stretch knee pads, resistant to wear and tear, allowing surfers to focus on catching waves without concern.
- Critical Taping: Strategically placed reinforcement tape strengthens critical seams, ensuring the wetsuit stands up to harsh conditions while maintaining comfort.
- Revofit 3D Pattern Technology: We adapted our Revofit 3D technology to make the suit easier to put on and take off, offering the perfect balance between flexibility, comfort, and practicality. No more struggling in the car park—just more time on the waves.
- YULEX 2.0: Moving beyond neoprene, we partnered with Yulex to introduce YULEX 2.0, a plant-based natural rubber with superior elasticity and performance. This sustainable material offers warmth and comfort without compromising the planet.
Testing the Limits: Edinburgh Napier University Surf Lab
To select their wetsuit partner, Lost Shore put the finalists to a comprehensive test. At Edinburgh Napier University’s Surf Lab, wetsuits were tested for thermal regulation under real conditions.
The Surf Lab—a joint venture between Lost Shore and Edinburgh Napier University’s School of Applied Sciences—created a controlled environment to simulate the challenges of cold-water surfing.
Participants wore the wetsuits while submerged in chilled water maintained at 1°C, and sensors placed at key body locations monitored temperature regulation throughout the test.
The conditions were brutal. None of the wetsuits managed to maintain normal body temperature under such extreme conditions, but we’re proud that our DOT Series emerged as the top performer—providing the best insulation and cold protection.
For a detailed look at the testing process, check out Yulex’s “Rubber Chronicle 21: Yulex Wetsuit Keeps You Warmer” article.
Continuous Improvement: Raising the Bar Even Higher
Although we were pleased with our performance, we knew there was still room for improvement. We made a key change: replacing the standard PK #10 Stainless Steel G-Lock zip with a PK #10 S-Lock version featuring a waterproof polyurethane coating.
This update further minimised water ingress, making the cold Scottish waters feel just a bit more bearable.
GUL Appointed as Lost Shore’s Wetsuit Partner
After months of testing, trials, and innovation, we were officially appointed as the wetsuit partner for Lost Shore Surf Resort.
Our DOT Series wetsuit, created through our dedication to innovation and quality, now equips surfers at the world’s first inland surf resort. We’re proud to be part of this revolutionary project, sharing the values of sustainability, performance, and community that both GUL and Lost Shore hold dear.
A Partnership for the Future of Surfing
Our partnership with Lost Shore goes beyond just providing their wetsuits—it’s about making inland surfing an experience anyone can enjoy, from seasoned riders to those catching their first wave.
Together, we’re redefining what’s possible in the world of inland surfing, blending performance, sustainability, and inclusivity to push the sport forward.
Whether you’re there for a lesson or a solo session, the GUL DOT Series wetsuits will be ready to keep you comfortable in the water. Included with every lesson or available for hire, our wetsuits ensure every surfer can focus on enjoying the waves—not worrying about the cold.