Whether you’re a surfer, swimmer, diver, or fan of water-based activities, we have carefully curated an informative guide outlining the best wetsuits money can buy in 2024.
Our goal is to save you time and money scouring the internet looking for your next wetsuit by providing a comprehensive guide outlining many important qualities to consider before purchasing. When it comes to water-based activities, it is important to have a quality wetsuit that provides protection against the various elements you face but also has good buoyancy, flexibility, and heat retention.
By: Camping Feed Staff | Last Updated: Jan. 28, 2024
There are thousands of wetsuits on the market, making it overwhelming to find one that fits your needs and wants. Therefore, we’ve done the research and compiled a detailed list that highlights some of the best wetsuits that are available today and what makes them great. We will categorize the wetsuit models based on performances, features, and overall value.
To learn more about what goes into selecting a wetsuit, check out our buyer’s guide at the end of the article. Also, don’t forget to visit our Camping Feed website and stay up to date on new content and guides constantly being released.
1. O’Neill Hyperfreak Fire Wetsuit
- Stretch: 4.5/5
- Durability: 4/5
- Comfort: 5/5
- Warmth: 5/5
- Pros: Excellent Stretchability and Heat Retention
- Cons: Neoprene isn’t the toughest
The O’Neil Hyperfreak Fire wetsuit stands out and is the best overall choice for surfers looking for a suit that exceeds in all aspects, from flexibility to durability to heat retention. The suit uses cutting-edge materials like TechnoButter 4 and Technobutter 4x graphene, making it extra flexible and an excellent choice for heat retention when wearing it in cold waters. The use of these two materials makes the suit lightweight and highly comfortable to wear for any high-performing athlete.
In addition, the Hyperfreak Fire wetsuit features a glued, blind-stitched seam that increases durability without sacrificing comfort. Its overall construction helps to ensure that water will not seep through the seams, keeping you warm and dry for longer. Flexibility and the option to move freely in the water are equally important to the suit’s construction, leading to strategically placed seams for maximum mobility. It also comes with a warm liner and water tighter sealing to keep you cozy and retain heat. The suit comes in two different versions: front-facing or back-facing zippers. The front-facing zipper version is perfect for those who prefer easy entry and exit, while the back-facing zipper version is ideal for those who want a more secure fit.
Another standout feature of the O’Neil Hyperfreak Fire wetsuit is its scratchy texture– which benefits high-performance athletes by keeping the suit in place when out moving in the water. It gives surfers and water-sport enthusiasts the confidence to push their limits without worrying about the suit slipping and causing an issue.
The suit comes in sizes S – 2XL, making it an excellent option for most body types. The suit is available in three trim colours, black, red, or blue, allowing for customization and the opportunity to choose a colour that best suits your style.
Best Value for Your Money
2. Quiksilver Everyday Sessions Back Zip Wetsuit
- Stretch: 5/5
- Durability: 3.75/5
- Comfort: 5/5
- Warmth: 4/5
- Pros: Affordable,
- Cons: Could be more durable
The Quiksilver Everyday Sessions wetsuit is an excellent option for surfers who want a dependable, high-performance wetsuit without breaking the bank. This suit is equipped with nylon and neoprene, providing flexibility and warmth to its wearer. Neoprene is popular for its insulating properties and heat retention capabilities, making it an excellent choice for colder water conditions.
Quiksilver has designed this wetsuit to fit snugly and contour the natural shape of our body, providing enhanced mobility and a vast range of motion when worn in the water. This has made it a highly sought-after suit for surfers who need to move quickly and freely when catching waves or performing tricks, as it helps to reduce drag and resistance, allowing you to conserve more energy while maintaining speed.
The Everyday Sessions suit is a solid option for those seeking a comfortable suit, and Its innovative features truly make it a top contender in its price range. Additionally, the Everyday Sessions suit has reinforced seams with flatlock stitching to hold it together, which are highly durable and withstand many different weather conditions. It also uses Thermal Smoothie technology, a wind-resistant panel on the chest and back of the suit that traps heat and prevents water from accidentally seeping in.
Best Wetsuit for Warmth
3. Rip Curl Flashbomb
- Stretch: 4/5
- Durability: 3.75/5
- Comfort: 4/5
- Warmth: 5/5
- Pros: Excellent Heat Retention, Good Thickness
- Cons: Could be improved for durability
The Rip Curl Flashbomb wetsuit is ideal for watersports enthusiasts who wish to prioritize warmth and flexibility when deciding on a suit. It comes with high-quality materials that provide the highest comfort and warmth when worn in the water.
A notable feature of the Rip Curl Flashbomb is its FlashDry lining, made using a super-fast-drying material. The lining helps to keep you warmer for longer periods by wicking away moisture and preventing heat loss. The material also eliminates odour, making it easier to maintain after a sweaty day out on the water. In terms of the overall build, the wetsuit features welded seams that are waterproof and flexible to help prevent water from getting in while maintaining good mobility. The seams are reinforced with tape to improve durability and ensure that the lifetime of the suit meets expectations.
One cool feature of this Ripcurl suit is its seamless chest panel, and a back mesh panel intended to enhance mobility and reduce the overall weight. It does have a zip-free entry system, which may be a benefit or drawback based on what you’re comfortable with when it comes to taking on and off a suit. Although, we believe this helps with reducing the bulk and assisting the suit in feeling natural on your body.
The Rip Curl Flashbomb’s attention to detail and high-quality materials make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a warm and comfortable suit in colder waters. It is one of the warmest suits on the market and maybe a great companion based on where you plan to use it.
Best High-Performance Wetsuit
4. Quiksilver Highline 4/3 Chest Zip
- Stretch: 5/5
- Durability: 5/5
- Comfort: 4/5
- Warmth: 3.75/5
- Pros: Great Durability, Great Stretch
- Cons: People have complained the zipper gets loose
The Quiksilver Highline 4/3 Chest Zip wetsuit is an excellent option for talented surfers and watersports athletes who require a highly durable, flexible, and comfortable suit. This suit uses high-quality materials to protect against a wide range of water temperatures and conditions, making it an excellent overall choice for athletes that must go fast and move freely.
A critical feature of the Quiksilver Highline is its use of F’N Lite neoprene, a lightweight and flexible material that allows a greater range of motion when moving on the water. The F’N Lite neoprene is also fairly decent at retaining some heat and helping you to stay warm in colder waters.
One notable feature is the wetsuit’s chest entry zip system, which provides an excellent seal and ease of use when taking it on and off. The chest zip also helps to reduce bulk while improving the flexibility and mobility of the suit, which is vital for any high-performing athlete. In terms of build, the suit has triple glued and blind-stitched seams, helping to prevent any water leakage. It also has a Hydrowrap neck closure to create a comfortable but tight seal around the next, preventing water from entering and adding weight when surfing or being used for other activities. All these features combined make the Quiksilver Highline an excellent investment for high-performing athletes looking for a suit that contours well to the body and eliminates weight whenever possible.
5. Isurus Evade 3.2 Chest Zip
- Stretch: 4/5
- Durability: 3.75/5
- Comfort: 4/5
- Warmth: 3.75/5
- Pros: Chest Zip, Yamamoto neoprene
- Cons: Limited options in colour
The Isurus Evade 3.2 Chest Zip wetsuit is designed to provide the best comfort possible, making it an excellent choice for those looking to find a suit that feels nice. A standout feature of the suit is its Yamamoto neoprene, known for its stretchiness and flexibility in the water. The neoprene is exceptionally lightweight and allows you to move freely in the water without feeling weighed down. The suit is also ergonomically designed to provide comfort and flexibility for athletes.
Like others on this list, the Evade is a chest zip entry wetsuit, making it easy to take on and off, eliminating the bulkiness often found in back zip suits. The seams are glued and blind-stitched to increase durability while being reinforced with external liquid tape to enhance their strength and longevity. Another thing we love about the Isurus Evade is its thickness of 3.2mm, which is excellent for navigating the many different temperatures experienced across various bodies of water. The suit comes in sizes XS – XXL with only one colour option: black.
6. Buell RB2 413 Fullsuit Men’s
- Stretch: 3.75/5
- Durability: 4/5
- Comfort: 4/5
- Warmth: 4/5
- Pros: Absorbs less water, durable
- Cons: Can be challenging to take on and off
The Buell RB2 413 Fullsuit Men’s wetsuit is designed to provide watersports athletes with a high-quality wetsuit made of durable and warm materials. It is made using Xcel Thermo Dry Celliant lining, a blend of minerals and recycled polyester to convert body heat into infrared energy. As a result, wearers can typically last longer in cold waters when wearing the suit.
This suit features a new neoprene material that is highly flexible and lightweight, making it easier to navigate rougher waters. The neoprene used in this suit absorbs 30% less water than traditional neoprene, which means it will stay lighter and more flexible even after hours are spent in the water. Additionally, the new neoprene reduces wetsuit drying times and is easier to clean and store after use.
With 4/3mm thickness, the suit has excellent insulation and provides the right amount of warmth when wearing it in colder waters. We were also impressed with its comfort level and the fit snug that isn’t too restrictive. They offer sizes from XS – 3XL in black only.
7. Rip Curl E-Bomb 3/2 Chest Zip
- Stretch: 4/5
- Durability: 3.75/5
- Comfort: 4/5
- Warmth: 3.5/5
- Pros: Excellent Waterproofing
- Cons: Not as warm as many others on this list
The Rip Curl E-Bomb wetsuit is designed for surfers that crave flexibility, comfort, and performance in their wetsuits. The suit has a hooded design, which provides warmth and protection to one of your most important body parts! It uses E6 neoprene which is very lightweight and flexible, providing users with excellent mobility in the water. Additionally, the E6 Thermo barrier lining also helps to retain body heat.
Paired with E6 lining, the suit uses E6 tape across the main areas of the suit while being triple glued and double-stitched seams for extra durability. The result is a solid, waterproof seal that prevents water from accidentally leaking into the suit. The Rip Curl E-Bomb does not have a zipper, which also plays into its waterproof quality, as no water can get in from the front or back.
In terms of performance, the Rip Curl E-Bomb wetsuit is an excellent choice for high-performance athletes as it is comfortable and has a good level of stretchiness for ease of movement. One potential drawback to this suit is that it doesn’t provide as much warmth as others. However, it may be an excellent choice for people with warmer clients.
8. Yamamoto SRFACE Remix
- Stretch: 4/5
- Durability: 3.75/5
- Comfort: 4/5
- Warmth: 3.5/5
- Pros: Eco-friendly, Great Neoprene
- Cons: Could be warmer
The Yamamoto SRFACE Remix wetsuit is a stylish and functional wetsuit that may be an attractive option for anyone looking to pick their next suit. It is made using a very high-quality limestone neoprene, which is more eco-friendly than many other traditional neoprene suits available today. Yet, it does not sacrifice any flexibility and warmth needed in a functional suit.
The suit’s minimalist design is sleek and well-crafted, with a zipper on the chest to make it easy to take on and off. The reinforced seams ensure that the suit stays in good condition even though any heavy use it might be put through. It also comes with anti-wind chill panels on the chest to provide extra warmth and protection on those windy and cold days.
In addition to its standout design and features, the Yamamoto SRFACE Remix uses water-based glue, eliminating the need for harsh materials when constructing the suit. Many avid surfers have claimed that the suit is highly flexible and great for performing complicated tricks on the water. It also comes in a hooded option for those who want added protection and warmth to their head when in the water.
9. Tumo Hooded 6/5 Matuse
- Stretch: 3.5/5
- Durability: 4/5
- Comfort: 4/5
- Warmth: 4.5/5
- Pros: Excellent protection from wind and water
- Cons: Suit is a bit on the heavy side
The Tumo Hooded 6/5 Matuse wetsuit is made with a combination of Geoprene and recycled polyester, which is both eco-friendly and sustainable. The Geoprene material is sourced from limestone and is more beneficial for the environment than the traditional neoprene found on the average suit.
In addition to its eco-friendly design, the Tumo wetsuit is very comfortable and provides an excellent range of motion for athletes. The hood is constructed to fit comfortably around your head and neck while entrapping body heat and protecting you from the elements. The wetsuit also features a front zip entry system, which many wearers may prefer when taking the suit on and off. The suit was named after a monk meditation practice that involves countering the cold with your body heat. Therefore, you can rest assured that wearing this wetsuit in even the coldest waters will be nice and toasty.
One potential drawback to this suit for some users is that it is 6/5 mm, meaning it is a fair bit heavier than many other options listed. There may be better choices for high-performance athletes that require a greater range of mobility in the water. Nonetheless, we don’t think you can go wrong with this suit if you want something durable, warm, and long-lasting!
10. Xcel Drylock 6/4/5
- Stretch: 3.75/5
- Durability: 4/5
- Comfort: 3.75/5
- Warmth: 4/5
- Pros: Very Warm & Flexible
- Cons: Expensive and some claim it is tight on the chest
The Xcel Drylock wetsuit is made using Xcel’s exclusive Japanese limestone neoprene material, one of the most eco-friendly neoprene options on the market today. It is a high-performance suit designed to provide its users warmth, comfort, and flexibility.
Drylock suits are typically a great choice for people that spend more time in colder waters and would benefit from a suit with good insulation. A standout feature of the suit is its use of Thermo Dry Celliant technology in the lining. This innovative material converts body heat into infrared energy and keeps you warmer for longer. The suit also has a multi-stitch interior to provide an additional layer of insulation, while its channel flex design helps to increase overall flexibility. Like most wetsuits, it has a waterproof zipper to prevent water from leaking.
The Xcel Drylock is built to last, with blind-stitched and glued seams and foam edges reinforced with multiple layers of glue. You can be confident that this suit won’t tear or rip when navigating more challenging waters. One thing to note is that some wearers have claimed that the suit fits tight on the chest due to its reinforced zipper and seals. However, it may still be an excellent choice if you require additional warmth and protection.
11. Patagonia Men’s R1 Yulex Front-Zip Full Suit
- Stretch: 3.5/5
- Durability: 4/5
- Comfort: 3.75/5
- Warmth: 4/5
- Pros: Very Warm
- Cons: Some have claimed that the thickness takes away from its stretch
Patagonia is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmentalism, and the R1 is no exception. The Yulex rubbers used to create this suit are sustainably sourced from FSC-certified forests and plantations while being processed in a way that works to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the suit uses solution-dyed and recycled polyester lining to minimize water usage, energy consumption, and CO2 emissions compared to the traditional method of dyeing most other companies practice.
Regarding performance, the R1 wetsuit was meticulously designed to keep its wearer warm in cold water and maintain overall flexibility within the suit. To help reduce weight, the suit is coated with a water-repellent finish to help shed off water and wind when in use. It also has a back-zip entry system for those that enjoy the ease of entry and exit from this design.
The Patagonia R1 is a great option for those who want a high-quality and sustainable suit that prioritizes warmth and protection over other factors. It may not be the best suit for performance, but its commitment to environmentalism is admirable and deserves a spot on this list.
12. Manera X10D
- Stretch: 4/5
- Durability: 3.75/5
- Comfort: 5/5
- Warmth: 3.75/5
- Pros: Very Comfortable
- Cons: No key loop or pockets
Manera is a famous French brand that rose to fame due to its 3-D-designed suits that perfectly fit the human body’s contours. Their suits, like the Manera X10D, are built with extremely light neoprene, making it feel like a second layer of skin. Some tricks they used include avoiding seams on high-tension areas, stretching seams vertically, and reinforcing panels where needed.
It only has a single front zipper that makes it easy to take on and off, and the zipper is coated with a layer of silicone to help prevent water from seeping inside. It also has sealing prints on the ankles and wrists to be stiffer to help keep the suit in place and stop water from getting in. It also has an ultra-soft jersey interior that offers excellent comfort for those who will spend many hours wearing the suit.
If you are a high-performing athlete who values comfort, stretchiness, and flexibility, this may be the ideal option. In addition to its focus on comfort and overall mobility, Manera is dedicated to using sustainable practices wherever possible. For example, they use limestone-based neoprene, which helps to reduce their environmental impact while providing excellent insulation compared to traditional petroleum-based neoprene.
13. Flatrock Sarvo Steamer
- Stretch: 4/5
- Durability: 5/5
- Comfort: 3.75/5
- Warmth: 3.5/5
- Pros: Very sustainable
- Cons: Not great in cold climates
Flatrock is a brand that has made a good name for itself by offering extraordinarily durable and long-lasting wetsuits. Suits are hand-craft, with extra attention paid to even the most minor details. The company is so confident in the quality of its suits that they offer a lifetime warranty for damage like tears and rips. If your Flatrock experiences any damage, you can return it to the company for repair at no cost.
In addition to the suit’s durability, the suits are known for their exceptional comfort, having been constructed using 18-cut Japanese limestone neoprene, which is very comfortable and environmentally friendly. The company partners with ocean conservation organizations that aim to help protect marine life and promote other sustainable practices. They even vow to plant one tree for every order that is placed.
The suit features a 3mm thickness around the core and 2mm around the arms and legs. It is well-suited for warmer waters, but there are better choices for those extra-cold climates. Ultimately, this suit is an excellent option for environmentally motivated people who want a flexible suit that feels natural on the body.
14. Xcel Comp X Short Sleeve
- Stretch: 4.75/5
- Durability: 3.75/5
- Comfort: 4/5
- Warmth: 3.5/5
- Pros: Very flexible and stretchy
- Cons: Not super warm
The Xcel Comp X Short Sleeve is the second brand to make a feature on this list, and for a good reason. The Comp X Short Sleeve offers exceptional flexibility for high-performing athletes, making it an excellent choice for those that value mobility above all else. The suit retains heat with its Thermolite IR core and quick-dry fibre used throughout.
Like many others, the suit is made using limestone neoprene, which is much more sustainable than the traditional neoprene often used. In terms of durability, the suit uses high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting performance and help protect against wear and tear from general use. The suit is 2 mm thick and ultra stretchy, making it an excellent companion for high-performing athletes but not necessarily those that venture out into colder waters. The suit comes in XS – 2XL, with colour options in Graphite/Sapphire, Graphite/Black, and regular Black.
Overall, the Xcel Comp X Short Sleeve may be a perfect choice if you are looking for a suit that offers great mobility and freedom of movement while being environmentally designed.
15. Need Essentials Ultra-Premium
- Stretch: 3/5
- Durability: 4/5
- Comfort: 4/5
- Warmth: 5/5
- Pros: Very Warm
- Cons: Not overly stretchy
The Need Essentials Ultra-Premium suit is an excellent option for maintaining warmth and comfort in colder waters. The suit is made from high-quality materials and features a 4-way mega stretch design for easy movement. The suit uses 3mm and 2mm thick limestone-based neoprene in the torso, upper legs, and arms, offering excellent warmth retention.
Its thick design is perfect for those looking for a durable suit that can withstand constant use. The suit’s exterior is liquid flex sealed, and all seams are glued, stitched, and taped for added durability. The thermal lining of this suit is also fast-drying and provides an additional layer of warmth. Ultimately, it is a superb option for colder water conditions where warmth is essential, and water penetration may cause issues.
One thing to keep in mind is the suit’s thickness, which is more than many of the other options on the market, resulting in some restrictions on flexibility. However, this is separate from the overall quality and performance of the suit. It remains an excellent choice for users that don’t necessarily need a high-performance suit but wish to stay warm in the water.
16. Finisterre Nieuwland Yulex
- Stretch: 3.75/5
- Durability: 4/5
- Comfort: 3.75/5
- Warmth: 5/5
- Pros: Very warm
- Cons: Can be difficult to put on and take off
The Finisterre Nieuwland Yulex suit is a sustainable wetsuit created by a brand committed to producing eco-friendly and sustainable products. The Yulex rubber is a combination of recycled polyester to ensure the suit is both durable and environmentally friendly. Additionally, the Yulex rubber used in the suit is derived from natural sources, which is more eco-friendly than traditional neoprene.
The Nieuwland Yulex suit is designed for cold-water adventures, so it may not be the best choice for those who spend more time in warmer climates and waters. The suit has a front-facing chest zip to help prevent water from entering and retain heat as much as possible. The zip is generally easy to use, but some people may find it difficult to take off after using it. That being said, once the suit is on, it fits like a glove and allows for great water mobility. The suit also comes with a comfortable hood that helps to add extra warmth and protection when in the water.
17. Hurley Advantage Plus
- Stretch: 4/5
- Durability: 3.75/5
- Comfort: 3/5
- Warmth: 3.75/5
- Pros: Affordable
- Cons: Not many features, some claim it is uncomfortable
The Hurley Advantage Plus 3/2mm Fullsuit is designed to keep you comfortable and warm in colder water temperatures. The suit is made with stretchy neoprene material that allows for freedom of movement and features a chest zip to be easily put on and removed. It is also lined with a warm hollow-fibre fleece material that helps to trap heat and keep you warm. Its performance seam patterning allows for a full range of motion and makes it an excellent option for many high-performing athletes.
The Hurley Advantage Max, 3/2mm Fullsuit, is built for cool water but may not fare as well with the cold climates in some places. That being said, an attractive quality of this suit is its low cost, making it a great entry-level suit for those just getting started with activities like surfing or kitesurfing.
A drawback that some people have noticed regards its comfort level, with claims that the suit is tight around the shoulder and neck, but this can be a personal option. Nonetheless, it has a great stretch and will perform well if you require lots of mobility when out on the water.
18. Body Glove’s Red Cell 3/2 MM Men’s Chest-Zip Full Suit
- Stretch: 4/5
- Durability: 3.75/5
- Comfort: 3.75/5
- Warmth: 4/5
- Pros: Good warmth & stretch
- Cons: Difficult to put on
The Red Cell Fullsuit offers excellent warmth and performance capability to help you cope in the colder waters while maintaining comfort. Its glide-skin interior neck seal and smooth-skin left shoulder trim are intended to enhance comfort and minimize the water that gets in. The suit also comes with a heat-generating infrared lining that helps to conserve body heat and to improve comfort. It also has a front and back integrated drain system to help with water control and keeping the suit light.
The suit is constructed using Evo-dry exterior material with a micro-bead exterior seam seal and Red Cell infrared interior insulation to help with warmth and durability. On their website, they compare wearing this suit to sitting in a climate-controlled car, which is arguably true!
Additionally, the Evoflex interior taping and seamless underarm panelling comfort its wearer. The suit’s overall construction followed the idea of reducing chafing and improving comfort, making it an excellent suit for long sessions on the water.
19. Vissla North Seas
- Stretch: 4/5
- Durability: 3.75/5
- Comfort: 3.5/5
- Warmth: 3.75/5
- Pros: Good warmth & stretch
- Cons: Difficult to put on
Vissla North Seas wetsuit is an impressive suit that boasts a good balance between warmth and stretch. It has a thick and coy lining from the chest down but is paired with a thinner lining in the arms and shoulder to help with mobility. Panels have been strategically placed on the front and back to help combat wind chill and keep you comfortable on the water when facing more challenging weather conditions.
The power seams used on this suit are equally impressive and capable of holding up against regular use. The suit’s interior also has taped seams, which can start to peel, but the ones used in the Vissla North Seas seem to hold up well and maintain good flexibility.
Like many other suits, it is made with Japanese limestone, so you can be confident in its quality and sustainability. It also has a great kneepad that offers nice protection against different accidents you may encounter.
20. Billabong Furnace 6/5 + Hood
- Stretch: 3/5
- Durability: 4.5/5
- Comfort: 3.75/5
- Warmth: 5/5
- Pros: Extremely Warm
- Cons: Not great for high-performance athletes
The Billabong Furnace wetsuit is the ultimate choice for a suit that can handle extremely cold-water conditions and temperatures. It is built with an innovative design that utilizes a combination of AIRLITE 4D and SMART neoprene fabrics to ensure the most flexibility possible without compromising on warmth. Additionally, the Graphene Recycler Plus technology embedded within the suit is intended to help maintain your natural body heat for as long as possible.
We want to highlight the Billabong Furnace wetsuit’s SMART Foam limestone-based neoprene lining, which is made using 30% recycled materials, including car tires, scrap rubber, and oyster shells. The lining is bonded together using Aqua Alpha, a nontoxic water-based adhesive. With its 6mm neoprene thickness, the Furnace model can withstand ocean temperatures as low as 6-11℃. As a result, we believe that the Billabong Furnace 6/5 is an excellent wetsuit for divers or swimmers navigating cold waters, but you will lose stretch and mobility in exchange for the added warmth.
Buyer’s Guide
Material & Durability
The materials used in wetsuits play a significant role in determining their overall durability and performance, making it an essential factor to consider before purchasing. Generally, the most common material used in wetsuits is neoprene, a synthetic rubber with excellent insulation and mobility qualities. That being said, not all neoprene is of the same quality, and the type used to create your wetsuit can significantly impact the final result.
With that in mind, higher-quality neoprene is generally more durable while offering its user a greater range of stretch and flexibility. Therefore, we recommend opting for a wetsuit that uses high-quality neoprene. Some wetsuits will opt to include materials like nylon or polyester in the suit to help reinforce the high-stress areas and improve the strength of the final product.
It is also important to consider the quality of the wetsuit seams when coming to a purchasing decision. Ultimately, the seams and how they are constructed will significantly impact the suit’s longevity. For example, wetsuits commonly have either glued, stitched, taped seams or a combination of the three. Taped seams are generally considered the most durable and offer the best protection against water penetration when comparing them between the three.
The craftsmanship of your wetsuit is equally important, with the higher-quality option having been constructed with careful attention to detail, including reinforced stress points and durable zippers and closures. Sustainability can also be an important feature of your wetsuit. If you want an environmentally-friendly option, we consider looking for brands that feature innovative materials like recycled rubber or natural fibres, which maintain durability but emphasize the importance of caring for our environment.
Temperature & Heat Retention
Temperature and heat retention are two other critical factors to consider when selecting a wetsuit. Typically, wetsuits are designed with heat retention in mind, as they can be used in colder climates and waters.
The overall thickness of the wetsuit in different areas is one of the primary factors in determining its insulating properties. Different brands and versions will come in a range of thicknesses, measured in millimetres. Thicker wetsuits provide more insulation and are better suited for cold water conditions. In contrast, thinner suits are typically used for warmer waters.
Neoprene also plays an important role in determining the heat retention capabilities of the wetsuit that you have decided to purchase. High-quality neoprene will provide a higher insulation level than the lower-grade neoprene on the market. That being said, some types of wetsuits will have introduced innovative materials to increase warmth. For example, wool, bamboo, and other recycled materials are some kinds of materials that may add to the heat of the suit when in use.
The overall fit of the suit also comes into play when considering warmth. A suit that is too loose may allow water to seep in and out, which reduces the suits insulating properties. In contrast, a suit that is too tight may restrict blood flow and limit the body’s natural ability to generate the heat needed to stay warm. Finding balance and a suit that fits your body is important.
Comfort & Stretch
We touched on this briefly when discussing the importance of heat retention in a wetsuit but ensuring that the wetsuit you choose fits well is very important. Too tight suits can restrict movement, making it uncomfortable to move around. This can be a huge problem for high-performance athletes that need freedom of movement to perform the motions required in their watersport niche.
Stretch refers more closely to how the suit conforms to your body and the level of comfort it may provide. Wetsuits are typically made using neoprene, a synthetic rubber material with a level of stretchiness based on its thickness and the quality of the neoprene used. For example, if a thinner neoprene layer is used, it will generally provide stretchier, while a thicker layer would work the opposite way.
Your needs will play an important role in what level of stretch you require from your suit. If you plan to wear it in colder waters, choosing a thicker suit that is more restrictive but provides the necessary warmth may be more important. If you are an athlete or surfer, choose a more form-fitting and light suit that enables ease of movement. A well-fitted wetsuit should feel like a second layer of skin, not overly tight but snug enough to stay on well.
Zipper Location
You may be surprised to hear that the location of the zipper on your wetsuit can have a major impact on its functionality and comfort. There are typically two different places that you will find a zipper on your suit: the back and the front. Although, some wetsuits will opt not to use a zipper at all. A zipper that is located at the chest will generally provide a tighter fit and may be better at keeping water from accidentally getting inside the suit. Zippers that have been placed on the back are generally easier to take on and off, making them a good choice for people that aren’t looking for a high-performance suit.
Accessories
Accessories are used to enhance the overall functionality of the wetsuit and there are plenty of options available on the market today. Some popular ones include hoods, caps, rash guards, vests, and gloves. In most cases, the addition of accessories will come down to personal preference and the things that you find provide more comfort when wearing your suit.
For example, some people find they easily get cold in the head and want a suit that comes with a thermal hood. Therefore, when making a purchasing decision, we recommend spending some time reading through the options we provided on this list and figuring out which types of accessories may help you to have a better experience in the water.
Sustainability
Wetsuit production can have significant environmental impacts and cause damage to the oceans that we love. Therefore, more brands are spending time coming up with ways or creating suits that don’t damage the environment and reduce their impact.
The average wetsuit is made using neoprene, derived from petroleum and is not great for the planet. This is because the production of neoprene takes a lot of energy and entails releasing harmful chemicals into the atmosphere. Following this, they are sold to customers and used for some time before being disposed of. The disposal of wetsuits is often done poorly and leads to unnecessary waste and pollution on the earth.
With that in mind, here are some sustainable practices that manufacturers and purchasers can follow to help reduce their footprint and keep the earth healthy.
- Look for eco-friendly materials: support manufacturers using recycled materials and products that minimize their environmental impact.
- Eco-friendly neoprene: petroleum-based neoprene is notoriously bad for the environment and unnecessary when so many more sustainable options exist. We suggest looking for brands that use alternative materials like Yulex or natural rubber.
- Recycling: wetsuits don’t need to be thrown into the trash and left in a landfill after they’ve gotten old. Find brands and manufacturers that recycle the material and repurpose them for better and more environmentally friendly uses.
Cost
Wetsuits vary in price, depending on the thickness, material used, and brand. In purchasing a wetsuit, you will want to consider the overall cost and how much you are willing to spend on getting a quality piece. It is important to remember that a high-quality wetsuit may be more expensive, but it will last longer and provide more comfort and protection when using it on the water. We recommend purchasing a wetsuit that caters to your needs and ensures protection when engaging in aquatic activities.
Final Remarks
We hope that this guide was helpful in your search to find the perfect wetsuit. It can be a challenging task to take on, but a wetsuit can make or break your experience when engaging in various water-based activities. The suits included on this list are all great options depending on what you are looking for when selecting one.
Ultimately, we hope that you better understand what goes into choosing a wetsuit and find the one that is perfect for you! Please visit Camping Feed and check out our other articles about the outdoors!
