Who says only humans can wear designer garb?

Ralph the penguin is enjoying his own trendy new wetsuit - but it's not just to look cool.

The 18-year-old Humboldt penguin moults in an unusual way, meaning for much of the year his feathers are very patchy.

But he keeps warm and stays protected from the elements, while looking like a totally cool surfer dude as well, with a very swish O'Neill wetsuit.

Meg Fieldhouse, birds team leader at Marwell Zoo where Ralph lives, said: “Every year, the penguins lose their feathers and grow new ones - it normally takes 2-3 weeks for the whole process to happen.

"Ralph’s condition means that when he loses his feathers the new ones don’t grow through, leaving him with bald patches.

“His wetsuit keeps him nice and warm during colder weather and in the summer it protects him from the sun too.”

Ralph showing off his new threads

Aside from wearing a custom-made wetsuit, Ralph swims, eats and plays just like the other penguins.

His partner Coral even grooms and preens Ralph’s wetsuit just as she would if he had feathers.

Ralph the penguin is part of 'Team O'Neill'

They are actually the zoo’s most successful penguin breeding pair, so the wetsuit is not affecting the couple’s ability to produce chicks.

The rubber in Ralph's wetsuit, which is the same as a human’s wetsuit, is extremely flexible and doesn’t restrict his movement.

Ralph certainly stands out

Jan Michaelis from O'Neill said they are very honoured to have Ralph on “Team O’Neill”.

“Team O’Neill is our global team of world-class athletes in surfing, wakeboarding, diving and other water sports. There is no question though, who is the best swimmer and diver on the team," he said.

“We are very happy that we can help this very special, little team member to spend time outdoors and in the water with his friends.”