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| post_id ▼ | thread_id | thread_title | post_number | author_username | post_date | post_date_iso | post_body |
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| 374517 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 1 | trucker | Sep 30, 2025 | 2025-09-29T21:16:21-0400 | With the shut down of the surfermag forum, we lost a few hundred pages of good info about nearly every wetsuit manufacturer a surfer could possibly wonder about. I learned a ton about different experiences w US, Japanese, European, etc. wetsuit companies—fit, durability, customs, etc. I’m hoping we can restart that thread here. If you’ve bought a new suit recently or you just have some thoughts to share, let’s go! |
| 374535 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 2 | takedown | Sep 30, 2025 | 2025-09-30T00:10:15-0400 | O’Neill hyperfreak is super stretchy and warm, but must be babied, the outside jersey material snags and wears thin quite easily. Looking for another brand with similar stretch without the durability issue. |
| 374553 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 3 | strez | Sep 30, 2025 | 2025-09-30T06:44:07-0400 | I bought an Xcel Comp+ 5/4 this February and I love it. Light, buttery, super flexible and easy on/off. Downside is that the liner is fragile and will snag on sharp fingernails, etc. Most comfy 5/4 I've had. https://www.cleanlinesurf.com/produ...cts/xcel-comp-plus-5-4-hooded-chest-zip-wetsuit-mn54cph4?variant=43248613097506 |
| 374557 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 4 | Camel Rock | Sep 30, 2025 | 2025-09-30T09:37:44-0400 | The hyper freak is such a great fitting suit, but just not durable enough. To me it wasn’t worth the trade off for just one season of use. Rip Curl Flashbomb has been my default for awhile. The e-bomb is going to offer better flex. |
| 374561 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 5 | tseck73 | Sep 30, 2025 | 2025-09-30T10:03:27-0400 | My go to is a Feral 4/3 and an Isarus 2/2 - I am a fan of the Yamamoto neoprene. Neither brand has a liner and feels like butter against the skin. I wear the 4/3 down to 48deg water temps and it keeps me nice and warm...I can wear the Isarus down to 58deg or so and am totally fine... Have multiple seasons on both - worth the expense IMO. |
| 374565 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 6 | XXX | Sep 30, 2025 | 2025-09-30T10:11:42-0400 | Camel Rock said: The hyper freak is such a great fitting suit, but just not durable enough. To me it wasn't worth the trade off for just one season of use. Rip Curl Flashbomb has been my default for awhile. The e-bomb is going to offer better flex. Click to expand... Ditto on the Hyperfreak. Waiting to see if the 5/4 Psychotech I purchased will get more use as temps drop to the 50 degree range this winter. It would be a great service if folks here were to measure and post the length of the zipper on their front zip full suits. Some brands that otherwise fit fine are nearly impossible for me to get on and off due to the short zipper opening. OK- I measured the zipper opening (pre-threaded) of my two Hyperfreaks : 2023 hooded-zipper length 11" 2024 non-hooded-zipper length 12" Most every brand I've checked on has a shorter zipper, and non-threaded is a non starter for me. Maybe this isn't seen as an issue by some folks, but I don't know a surfer over 55 who doesn't have some mobility/flexibility issues with shoulders and/or neck. All my suits get rinsed after every use but I only break out the shampoo a couple of times per year. I never have to put a suit on while wet because I cycle through three wetsuits. I wear slippery socks to reduce stress on the material when going over my feet, and Speedo's (or equivalent) for going over the bum. High nylon content is best, slicker an more durable than most alternatives. |
| 374569 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 7 | b1lf | Sep 30, 2025 | 2025-09-30T10:18:29-0400 | Everything you need right here... [link removed] |
| 374579 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 8 | Scott S | Sep 30, 2025 | 2025-09-30T11:55:59-0400 | switched from xcel to matuse 6/4 and 4/3 over the last couple years and have been happy with the switch. liking these unlined, no frills, fast drying, extra flexible suits. |
| 374585 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 9 | gigamots | Sep 30, 2025 | 2025-09-30T12:05:15-0400 | If you haven’t tried on a natural rubber wetsuit in a while, I recommend giving them a shot. Natural rubber has improved a lot over the past few years. I tried on a Patagonia a few years back and thought it sucked. The Patagonia R4 I bought for last winter is now one of my favorite suits. Also got a Need Essentials 3/2 in natural rubber (ocena) recently and it is incredibly comfortable with a very easy bib entry (similar to u zip) |
| 374739 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 10 | kookimus_decimus_meridius | Oct 1, 2025 | 2025-09-30T22:53:48-0400 | I'm 6'3" 165-170 with long limbs Billabong Recycler 3/2 MT: Owned since July 2023, estimate 50-75 surfs on it. Dude at the shop said "just go with whatever is on sale and replace next season brah". I wish I hadn't listened and gotten something else. Fit is ok, short in the legs/arms for my build, yet also too roomie in the torso. Flushed extremely easy since day one. Seams have held up but the rubber itself disintegrated fast and it stretched immediately. Somehow dries slower than others despite the rubber being thinner...Would not buy another even on deep discount. Oneill Hyperfreak 3/2 MT: Owned since ~August 2023, stolen ~December 2024. Estimate 100-150 surfs. This suit fit me second best of all I've owned, especially in the legs, and also has been the most comfortable. Jersey material seemed kinda fragile in some areas, and had some threads came loose before it got stolen. Doesn't seem to dry particularly fast or slow for a non-limestone suit. Did not flush or stretch much. Rubber quality seemed good, and overall, the quality was much higher than the billabong. Would buy another Oneill suit on steep sale, $399 or whatever MSRP is too much for the quality imo. Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Spring 2/2 MT: Owned since ~December 2023. Estimate 35 surfs on it. Fit is great, probably because it's a spring suit. No complaints about this suit, it's solid overall. Doesn't flush, seam quality is good. Would I seek out another rip-curl at full price? Nah, but for a $120 spring suit (outlet) that I'm gonna wear ~10-15 times a year, it's perfect, I will buy another for that price. Vissla 7 Seas 4/3 MT: Owned since November 2024. Estimate 100 surfs on it. Fit is pretty good, not as good as the Oneill, but much better than the Billabong. Fuzzy Jersey material on the inside sucks and causes it to dry slower than it should. Rubber seems thicker than 4/3, but seems like good quality. At that stage of my surfing career, I bought I 6'1 quad and proceeded to constantly sli… |
| 374749 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 11 | Tuce McGruce | Oct 1, 2025 | 2025-10-01T00:22:44-0400 | I can’t quit my Hyperfreak 4/3 comp no zip suit. I’ve accepted that I need a new one every 18 months |
| 374751 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 12 | OnlyLogs | Oct 1, 2025 | 2025-10-01T00:28:44-0400 | For the last four years, I’ve been using a Dakine Mission 4/3. It’s lasted me over 300 sessions and still has some life left. It’s not the stretchiest wetsuit, but it’s warm enough to surf year-round here in Oregon. About a month ago, I bought an Xcel Comp+ 4/3 to replace it. I originally wanted the Comp X, but Cleanline didn’t have my size in stock, so I went with the Comp+. The suit is super stretchy, warm and soft, but after the very first session I noticed the neoprene peeling on the back of the knee. This was extremely unusual—it was a small, clean day on a longboard with no wipeouts, no rocks, nothing. Since these wetsuits come with a one-year warranty, I contacted Xcel. After reviewing the case, they offered to replace it with an Xcel Comp X 4.5/3.5, which is the most premium suit in their Comp line. It’s slightly thicker and not quite as stretchy as the Comp+, but it feels great. I’ve attached a photo showing the peeling at knee level on the Comp+. |
| 374777 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 13 | ktheguide | Oct 1, 2025 | 2025-10-01T10:10:50-0400 | Curious to hear any other New Englanders' opinions on Crooked Wetsuits. I have a first-gen 4/3 non-hooded chest zip suit. Size SM Normally, I would wear an MS in any other suit, but the SM and SL also fit me fine. (got it second hand and was only worn once)The suit feels very stretchy and flexible. It's been great as a Summer Suit and late Spring Early Fall Suit. Def gets cold outside of that. For a non-hooded suit, it does not chafe my neck, which has been a problem with other suits in the past. My biggest complaint about the suit has been the zipper. The zipper on the chest is so shit. Never stays closed. Curious to hear if others have had this problem. It's been hard to get the teeth locked in on the start. Takes me about 5 minutes on the beach to actually get it closed and stay closed. Overall, not a bad suit for the comfort outside of the zipper. Seems like the company does some cool stuff as well. Never reached out to them regarding the zipper, so can't say if they are easy to work with. |
| 374821 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 14 | RobG814 | Oct 1, 2025 | 2025-10-01T12:59:48-0400 | OnlyLogs said: For the last four years, I've been using a Dakine Mission 4/3. It's lasted me over 300 sessions and still has some life left. It's not the stretchiest wetsuit, but it's warm enough to surf year-round here in Oregon. About a month ago, I bought an Xcel Comp+ 4/3 to replace it. I originally wanted the Comp X, but Cleanline didn't have my size in stock, so I went with the Comp+. The suit is super stretchy, warm and soft, but after the very first session I noticed the neoprene peeling on the back of the knee. This was extremely unusual-it was a small, clean day on a longboard with no wipeouts, no rocks, nothing. Since these wetsuits come with a one-year warranty, I contacted Xcel. After reviewing the case, they offered to replace it with an Xcel Comp X 4.5/3.5, which is the most premium suit in their Comp line. It's slightly thicker and not quite as stretchy as the Comp+, but it feels great. I've attached a photo showing the peeling at knee level on the Comp+. Click to expand... Were you wearing a calf leash? Looks like the Velcro could have been rubbing that spot. Regardless, cool to see they replaced it. |
| 375061 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 15 | takedown | Oct 2, 2025 | 2025-10-02T14:13:38-0400 | RobG814 said: Were you wearing a calf leash? Looks like the Velcro could have been rubbing that spot. Regardless, cool to see they replaced it. Click to expand... This happened to my O'Neill and it was from the calf leash. I make sure to orient the leash now so the rough part is on the front of the knee. |
| 375197 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 16 | _ctrlb | Oct 3, 2025 | 2025-10-03T08:27:17-0400 | The past two winter seasons I've had a Feral 3/2, and a Buell hooded 4m. That Feral was my first Yamamoto suit and it is well worth the price premium IMO. The 4m is due to be replaced before winter fully sets in. At this point I would like it to replace it with a Crooked hooded 4/3, I've read some positive reports here and the $50 wetsuit exchange discount is compelling, but I like the lack of fuzzy liner that Feral has. Feral only makes a hooded "5/4/3", which they say is close to alternative hooded 4/3's, but I'm less than compelled. Also, why no vizor on the hood, Feral? In the end I'll probably go with a Crooked hooded 4/3 still weighing options. |
| 375199 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 17 | seelegs | Oct 3, 2025 | 2025-10-03T09:14:52-0400 | Just ordered a Colby plus white label 4/3 for shoulder seasons here in Maine and wondering if anyone else has experience with them. Price is right for my use m, which should only be a few months in the fall and spring in the seasonal transition. Reviews on the website although limited seemed good so just ended up grabbing one before doing any more research. |
| 375205 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 18 | avaday | Oct 3, 2025 | 2025-10-03T10:57:41-0400 | takedown said: O'Neill hyperfreak is super stretchy and warm, but must be babied, the outside jersey material snags and wears thin quite easily. Looking for another brand with similar stretch without the durability issue. Click to expand... great suit, but least durable I've ever owned. Really dislike O'neill and their customer service as well. the last 3 wetsuit from them lasted less than a season...terrible. Of the big guys, Rip Curl wins IMHO. |
| 375207 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 19 | avaday | Oct 3, 2025 | 2025-10-03T10:59:04-0400 | Camel Rock said: The hyper freak is such a great fitting suit, but just not durable enough. To me it wasn't worth the trade off for just one season of use. Rip Curl Flashbomb has been my default for awhile. The e-bomb is going to offer better flex. Click to expand... flashbomb suits are great, dry fast and hold up. |
| 375567 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 20 | scurchin | Oct 6, 2025 | 2025-10-05T21:41:41-0400 | avaday said: flashbomb suits are great, dry fast and hold up. Click to expand... wetsuit suds are a must, makes it like new, i bet ya already knew... |
| 375589 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 21 | C_M | Oct 6, 2025 | 2025-10-05T23:29:27-0400 | What constitutes a good suit to one guy might be a terrible suit for another guy There are way too many variables. What temperature water? How many times a week r u surfin'? How well r u rinsin'? Do you know what is a good OTR fit? Custom Japanese, smoothie chest and back = #1 choice for me. Foolproof. Custom Boz = #2 choice Honorable mention = Matuse Apollo w/ hood (4/3 used 20x now, warm down to 49/50 degrees, suprisingly still no leaks - will see if all seams still hold when I wear it again this winter). Used in Oregon during summertime upwelling w/ gloves and boots. I have a new Feral 4.5/3.5 chest zip bought at discount - still haven't worn it - but from the looks the chest/neck entry I can't believe the person who designed it actually surfs. Looks like it will flush like a 7-gallon toilet. |
| 375807 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 22 | jonbiz | Oct 7, 2025 | 2025-10-06T21:19:20-0400 | I’ve been a fan of Hoteline. The fit has been great. Bombproof construction, older tech bit with the fit it’s not a problem I have a 5/4 that’s 7 years old now. I think I’ve rinsed it a handful full of times. It lives in my garage. I guess they’ve added Yamamoto rubber to their suits since I’ve got mine, just not advertising it. Not sure why. Would love to try feral or ISURUS. |
| 375809 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 23 | trucker | Oct 7, 2025 | 2025-10-06T21:22:25-0400 | Anyone try Pleasure wetsuits? I’ve read good reviews—looking for a first hand experience. |
| 375845 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 24 | O'cliff | Oct 7, 2025 | 2025-10-07T00:27:35-0400 | After being an O'neill guy forever (I live down the street from them, and worked there briefly when I was young), I've defected to Colby+. 100% Yamamoto at a very reasonible price. IMO Yamamoto IS noticably better. I have two Colbys, and they've both been great. The older one is going on its third season and is still like new. I take good care of my stuff, rinsing & hanging out of the sun. Sizing is similar to O'neill: I'm 5'9 170 lbs; short legs, long torso & arms, and an LS fits me right. |
| 376413 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 25 | C_M | Oct 9, 2025 | 2025-10-09T12:58:40-0400 | The face of American-made quality. |
| 376417 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 26 | Sdoli | Oct 9, 2025 | 2025-10-09T13:17:14-0400 | I just got a Manera 3/2 X10D and really love that new wetsuit. It's soft, flexible and not a pain to put it on and off ... I usually were a Matuse 2/2 for the summer and a scipio 3/3 for the winter. |
| 376935 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 27 | freakybornwings | Oct 12, 2025 | 2025-10-12T06:50:54-0400 | Rip Curl has been gradually taking over my whole collection up to 4/3, fits me extremely well (6'0 173 lbs). Any reports on their 5/4 Dawn Patrol with Yulex? |
| 376939 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 28 | NCCoastLife | Oct 12, 2025 | 2025-10-12T07:36:56-0400 | My O’Neil Hyperfreak Fire 3/2+ backzip has done well for 2 seasons so far. My shoulders are beat up so I have to have flexibility as my #1 choice over anything. They are bad enough I can’t get out of a chest zip suit most of the time at the end of a session. |
| 377599 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 29 | RobG814 | Oct 15, 2025 | 2025-10-15T11:08:17-0400 | Has anyone tried these custom 3d printed boots from Colby+? Cool idea, wonder how they really work though. https://colbyplus.com/products/colby-florence-3d-printed-custom-bootie |
| 377605 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 30 | scrambledegg | Oct 15, 2025 | 2025-10-15T11:43:10-0400 | RobG814 said: Has anyone tried these custom 3d printed boots from Colby+? Cool idea, wonder how they really work though. https://colbyplus.com/products/colby-florence-3d-printed-custom-bootie Click to expand... Seems like an elaborate scheme to collect foot pics if you ask me. |
| 377623 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 31 | C_M | Oct 15, 2025 | 2025-10-15T13:03:40-0400 | RobG814 said: Has anyone tried these custom 3d printed boots from Colby+? Cool idea, wonder how they really work though. https://colbyplus.com/products/colby-florence-3d-printed-custom-bootie Click to expand... Great idea for someone like me. I have a low volume foot and have to lace up any shoe like a combat boot because I just don't have enough foot to fill it out from the sole to the top. There isn't a bootie out there that fits me correctly. Downside is it's basically a dipped boot it seems and we all know how long those last. |
| 379609 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 32 | OdieWanKanobie | Oct 25, 2025 | 2025-10-25T13:29:17-0400 | OnlyLogs said: For the last four years, I've been using a Dakine Mission 4/3. It's lasted me over 300 sessions and still has some life left. It's not the stretchiest wetsuit, but it's warm enough to surf year-round here in Oregon. About a month ago, I bought an Xcel Comp+ 4/3 to replace it. I originally wanted the Comp X, but Cleanline didn't have my size in stock, so I went with the Comp+. The suit is super stretchy, warm and soft, but after the very first session I noticed the neoprene peeling on the back of the knee. This was extremely unusual-it was a small, clean day on a longboard with no wipeouts, no rocks, nothing. Since these wetsuits come with a one-year warranty, I contacted Xcel. After reviewing the case, they offered to replace it with an Xcel Comp X 4.5/3.5, which is the most premium suit in their Comp line. It's slightly thicker and not quite as stretchy as the Comp+, but it feels great. I've attached a photo showing the peeling at knee level on the Comp+. Click to expand... By chance, do you wear a leash below your knee? I've had the velcro on a leash chew up one of my wetsuits below the knee. |
| 380535 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 33 | sdfriday | Oct 30, 2025 | 2025-10-30T14:11:07-0400 | Sdoli said: I just got a Manera 3/2 X10D and really love that new wetsuit. It's soft, flexible and not a pain to put it on and off ... I usually were a Matuse 2/2 for the summer and a scipio 3/3 for the winter. Click to expand... I wish other manufacturers would make an unhooded 3/3 like the Scipio. Perfect suit for SoCal winters IMO |
| 380597 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 34 | jonbiz | Oct 31, 2025 | 2025-10-30T20:37:35-0400 | sdfriday said: I wish other manufacturers would make an unhooded 3/3 like the Scipio. Perfect suit for SoCal winters IMO Click to expand... Hotline makes an all 3mm suit without a hood. |
| 380599 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 35 | Singlefinsam | Oct 31, 2025 | 2025-10-30T20:49:19-0400 | OdieWanKanobie said: By chance, do you wear a leash below your knee? I've had the velcro on a leash chew up one of my wetsuits below the knee. Click to expand... I've had this, too, when I used to put my calf leash on any which way. After destroying one suit I started putting the scratchy exposed velcro in the front, on the shin side. Problem solved. |
| 380623 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 36 | MrTips | Oct 31, 2025 | 2025-10-31T08:39:05-0400 | sdfriday said: I wish other manufacturers would make an unhooded 3/3 like the Scipio. Perfect suit for SoCal winters IMO Click to expand... Isurus makes two: unlined zip-free and a lined chest-zip. Pleasure also offers them, custom fit and customizable. |
| 380631 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 37 | seelegs | Oct 31, 2025 | 2025-10-31T09:06:40-0400 | seelegs said: Just ordered a Colby plus white label 4/3 for shoulder seasons here in Maine and wondering if anyone else has experience with them. Price is right for my use m, which should only be a few months in the fall and spring in the seasonal transition. Reviews on the website although limited seemed good so just ended up grabbing one before doing any more research. Click to expand... Suits nice for the price. Fits great everywhere except for the crotch. Had some issues with it riding up on my first session and I'm hoping it goes away after it gets broken in. |
| 380919 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 38 | sdfriday | Nov 2, 2025 | 2025-11-02T11:07:25-0500 | jonbiz said: Hotline makes an all 3mm suit without a hood. Click to expand... I didn't know they were still in business. Wild. It was my favorite brand all throughout the mid to late 90s but haven't thought of them since. They might have been the first or one of the first chest zip wetsuits. |
| 380921 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 39 | sdfriday | Nov 2, 2025 | 2025-11-02T11:08:22-0500 | MrTips said: Isurus makes two: unlined zip-free and a lined chest-zip. Pleasure also offers them, custom fit and customizable. Click to expand... Thanks! Eyeing up the Sheild zip free now. I'm a fan of yammy rubber |
| 380935 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 40 | Salty | Nov 2, 2025 | 2025-11-02T11:46:11-0500 | seelegs said: Suits nice for the price. Fits great everywhere except for the crotch. Had some issues with it riding up on my first session and I'm hoping it goes away after it gets broken in. Click to expand... Same experience. It goes away with usage and time. |
| 380939 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 41 | jonbiz | Nov 2, 2025 | 2025-11-02T13:16:44-0500 | sdfriday said: I didn't know they were still in business. Wild. It was my favorite brand all throughout the mid to late 90s but haven't thought of them since. They might have been the first or one of the first chest zip wetsuits. Click to expand... Still in business. First ones to make a chest Zip. They are using yammy rubber as well. The durability is just so good, fit for me is like a second skin. Hard to try anything else. Reason I'm selling an O'Neil, just like the fit of hotline that much. Plus I'm a nostalgic person, hard to not remember all cool suit from the 90s. |
| 381035 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 42 | Cbadboardhound | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025-11-03T10:16:13-0500 | Just tried my hyperflex 3/2 out for the first time. Got what I paid for at like $115 (on sale from 200 ish). Weird fitment in crotch and legs. Warmth is good though. Overall would pick several other brands over this one like needessential etc. |
| 381069 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 43 | hullogfish | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025-11-03T12:14:35-0500 | As a well-fed Hobbit, I have found that fit is as crucial as anything. Matuse fits me perfect, their suits feel good/ materials seem as good as anyone else, so I buy those. However, their front zips have an opening that my hips seem to overstretch, so no go. I quickly ruined one I had. I buy their back zips only on sale and actually almost always have one in a box for when the others finally meet their maker. I bought a Feral and loved the materials, but the fit wasn't quite right. My point, go try on a bunch of suits and find the brand(s) that fits best, then you can play with materials. My cousin, who is well build but slender, is a Med or Med- Tall and I was shocked at how each brand fit so differently when he tried on 3-4 different brands. Then, the stretch in materials created a new factor. |
| 381111 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 44 | Cbadboardhound | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025-11-03T15:27:40-0500 | hullogfish said: As a well-fed Hobbit, I have found that fit is as crucial as anything. Matuse fits me perfect, their suits feel good/ materials seem as good as anyone else, so I buy those. However, their front zips have an opening that my hips seem to overstretch, so no go. I quickly ruined one I had. I buy their back zips only on sale and actually almost always have one in a box for when the others finally meet their maker. I bought a Feral and loved the materials, but the fit wasn't quite right. My point, go try on a bunch of suits and find the brand(s) that fits best, then you can play with materials. My cousin, who is well build but slender, is a Med or Med- Tall and I was shocked at how each brand fit so differently when he tried on 3-4 different brands. Then, the stretch in materials created a new factor. Click to expand... Yah agreed that's the best way to do it. The feral has been the nicest suit I've ever owned, I usually opt for sale deals online and just get whatever is the sickest deal at the time lol. I would like to try the Colby this winter as well and see if it lives up to the hype I made in my head |
| 381113 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 45 | kcl | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025-11-03T15:33:46-0500 | hullogfish said: As a well-fed Hobbit, I have found that fit is as crucial as anything. Matuse fits me perfect, their suits feel good/ materials seem as good as anyone else, so I buy those. However, their front zips have an opening that my hips seem to overstretch, so no go. I quickly ruined one I had. I buy their back zips only on sale and actually almost always have one in a box for when the others finally meet their maker. I bought a Feral and loved the materials, but the fit wasn't quite right. My point, go try on a bunch of suits and find the brand(s) that fits best, then you can play with materials. My cousin, who is well build but slender, is a Med or Med- Tall and I was shocked at how each brand fit so differently when he tried on 3-4 different brands. Then, the stretch in materials created a new factor. Click to expand... Ironically, I've found Matuse to be one of the least durable "high end" suits I've owned. Two seasons in and most every seam on my 3/2 Dante is leaking. Freshwater flush after every session, dried out in the garage out of the sun, etc. Should have just gone with an Isurus as I've got a couple that still going strong after five years. |
| 381115 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 46 | Pintails | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025-11-03T15:36:46-0500 | sdfriday said: I didn't know they were still in business. Wild. It was my favorite brand all throughout the mid to late 90s but haven't thought of them since. They might have been the first or one of the first chest zip wetsuits. Click to expand... Hotline is still around, but has been pretty stagnant ever since Ryan Buell left and started Buell. Now that Buell wetsuits is gone, I'm tempted to get one of their suits when the time comes for a new one. Their wetsuit lineup looks identical to the way it was 10 years ago, but the suits last forever and they offer a lot of different size options so it's easier to find a good fit. |
| 381117 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 47 | Dave T | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025-11-03T15:55:52-0500 | Not related to hotline - but just wanted to add that the one buell suit I had was easily the worst suit i've owned in 30+ years of surfing. |
| 381123 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 48 | sdfriday | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025-11-03T16:22:25-0500 | Cbadboardhound said: Yah agreed that's the best way to do it. The feral has been the nicest suit I've ever owned, I usually opt for sale deals online and just get whatever is the sickest deal at the time lol. I would like to try the Colby this winter as well and see if it lives up to the hype I made in my head Click to expand... I have a Colby yamamoto suit. For the money it's excellent but the jersey they use feels cheaper than my wife's 2x Feral's. |
| 381127 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 49 | lashSD | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025-11-03T16:38:13-0500 | Dave T said: Not related to hotline - but just wanted to add that the one buell suit I had was easily the worst suit i've owned in 30+ years of surfing. Click to expand... ditto. immediately leaky and absorbs an insane amount of water so took forever to dry. still in rotation for shoulder season when some flushing is actually appreciated. paid very little so not sweating it really |
| 381135 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 50 | Pintails | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025-11-03T16:51:02-0500 | Dave T said: Not related to hotline - but just wanted to add that the one buell suit I had was easily the worst suit i've owned in 30+ years of surfing. Click to expand... I've heard mixed reviews about Buell too, but I've liked all the Buell suits I've gotten. It helps that I got them all at a 40 to 50% discount from their many sales. (not too surprising they went out of business considering). I've gotten the RB2 hooded 4/3 and the DR3 and DR4 suits and they've held up well over 2 or 3 seasons. I can't compare them to those new fancy Yamamoto suits though, since I've never worn those. |
| 381141 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 51 | lashSD | Nov 3, 2025 | 2025-11-03T17:42:53-0500 | good a time as any to revive this banger |
| 381171 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 52 | jhouck | Nov 4, 2025 | 2025-11-03T19:13:57-0500 | sdfriday said: I have a Colby yamamoto suit. For the money it's excellent but the jersey they use feels cheaper than my wife's 2x Feral's. Click to expand... This is spot on. Have a feral 4/3 and Colby 3/2. Feral jersey is silky, Colby is semi silky. Colby still great for the price, still trying to determine if the extra 100+ is worth it for the feral. Does anyone have any recs on suit with the most durable knee pads? I have bony kneecaps and compress and wear through the pads. I can see the compression forming within a few months, they're always the first thing to go. Always conscious about not duck diving with my knee as well. |
| 381173 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 53 | jonbiz | Nov 4, 2025 | 2025-11-03T19:18:09-0500 | Not to sound like a hotline fan boy. I was super surprised when I called up and they said that there suit are using yammy rubber. I said you should probably mention that on your social media, it kinda big right now. I guess I’m doing it for them. Like other have said, fit is most important. They fit me so good iit like a custom suit. There 5/4 feels like a 3/2 , paddling in it is so easy. I don’t mind it. I did order a Luna on a killer close out deal. Fit is pretty good, chatted with Ian owner and he said it will loosen after a few sessions. Now I can put on a dry suit instant a damp one. Will report back after this winter on the Luna suit |
| 381245 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 54 | C_M | Nov 4, 2025 | 2025-11-04T08:56:34-0500 | Dave T said: Not related to hotline - but just wanted to add that the one buell suit I had was easily the worst suit i've owned in 30+ years of surfing. Click to expand... Was pretty funny on the erBB - when Buell left Hotline a few of his buddies the posters were promoting his brand on the forum (amazing suits!) and a bunch of guys ordered customs, which turned out to be total crap. The last one I saw about 5 years ago looked like it was meant for Kmart. |
| 381249 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 55 | C_M | Nov 4, 2025 | 2025-11-04T09:01:54-0500 | jonbiz said: Not to sound like a hotline fan boy. I was super surprised when I called up and they said that there suit are using yammy rubber. I said you should probably mention that on your social media, it kinda big right now. I guess I'm doing it for them. Like other have said, fit is most important. They fit me so good iit like a custom suit. There 5/4 feels like a 3/2 , paddling in it is so easy. I don't mind it. I did order a Luna on a killer close out deal. Fit is pretty good, chatted with Ian owner and he said it will loosen after a few sessions. Now I can put on a dry suit instant a damp one. Will report back after this winter on the Luna suit Click to expand... Hotline does customs. Fit is 75% of the equation, no brainer if you live in Santa Cruz area. |
| 381253 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 56 | jonbiz | Nov 4, 2025 | 2025-11-04T09:17:47-0500 | C_M said: Hotline does customs. Fit is 75% of the equation, so brainer if you live in Santa Cruz area. Click to expand... I don't. On east coast. I was able to go out there for work. Stopped in to try one on years ago and hooked. |
| 381363 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 57 | jhouck | Nov 4, 2025 | 2025-11-04T15:47:28-0500 | jonbiz said: Not to sound like a hotline fan boy. I was super surprised when I called up and they said that there suit are using yammy rubber. I said you should probably mention that on your social media, it kinda big right now. I guess I'm doing it for them. Like other have said, fit is most important. They fit me so good iit like a custom suit. There 5/4 feels like a 3/2 , paddling in it is so easy. I don't mind it. I did order a Luna on a killer close out deal. Fit is pretty good, chatted with Ian owner and he said it will loosen after a few sessions. Now I can put on a dry suit instant a damp one. Will report back after this winter on the Luna suit Click to expand... Hotline site says they are using some kind of Kevlar blend knee pads… any noticeable difference between knee pads on other suits? |
| 381367 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 58 | Camel Rock | Nov 4, 2025 | 2025-11-04T16:10:01-0500 | Had to get a new 3/2. I ended up with the xcel comp X. Really nice fit for me at 160 x 5’10” and good flex. |
| 381451 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 59 | swellaffair | Nov 5, 2025 | 2025-11-04T20:32:54-0500 | I’ve had a 5mm hotline boot pair for like 5 years - quality shit. My next Yamamoto might be from them now knowing they use it |
| 381459 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 60 | jonbiz | Nov 5, 2025 | 2025-11-04T21:12:27-0500 | jhouck said: Hotline site says they are using some kind of Kevlar blend knee pads… any noticeable difference between knee pads on other suits? Click to expand... They use Kevlar or something bulletproof. Like other has said I've blown knees out in other suits. They get this and leak. Every suit I've had has thinned out in knee area, except hotlines. Still like day one. |
| 381463 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 61 | Lazy Paddler | Nov 5, 2025 | 2025-11-04T21:47:40-0500 | I have a last season Isurus 2mm they claim to be as warm as 3/2. So far it’s been warmer than my other 2mm, which is Patagonia. Has anyone tried the hooded 3mm Feral suit in SoCal? It seems like that’d be a nice versatile suit to go up and down the CA coast in - assuming it’s not too hot for SoCal and too cold for NorCal. |
| 381899 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 62 | Wax | Nov 7, 2025 | 2025-11-06T19:28:35-0500 | jhouck said: This is spot on. Have a feral 4/3 and Colby 3/2. Feral jersey is silky, Colby is semi silky. Colby still great for the price, still trying to determine if the extra 100+ is worth it for the feral. Does anyone have any recs on suit with the most durable knee pads? I have bony kneecaps and compress and wear through the pads. I can see the compression forming within a few months, they're always the first thing to go. Always conscious about not duck diving with my knee as well. Click to expand... I have the same problem with ruining the inside of the right knee of all my suits. I am trying putting on a small sleeve of neoprene (from a wrecked suit) under my wetsuit. It's an extra piece of gear which pisses me off, but I'm hoping it will add a little life to my wetsuits. |
| 382637 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 63 | Sportive95 | Nov 10, 2025 | 2025-11-10T10:43:45-0500 | Feral is a great suit--I have a 4/3mm backzip for sunny NorCal days that has lasted several seasons. Minimal stitching/seams and really buttery Yamamoto lets it feel like nothing is there. Vissla is cheap and nice for a few months then becomes bagged out, takes on water, feels like wearing a 20 pound garbage bag. Been wearing a Nineplus 4/3mm for a bit. Really high quality Yamamoto and smoothskin is the best feeling material I've worn but their sizing is super difficult to figure out. Only been a few months so no notes on durability. |
| 382793 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 64 | Dave T | Nov 11, 2025 | 2025-11-11T08:26:36-0500 | I think vissla durability is fine but they do get very heavy when wet. |
| 382823 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 65 | fatty | Nov 11, 2025 | 2025-11-11T12:45:36-0500 | Anyone have a good recommendation for a 5’4 - 6 mill winter suit that has a lot of flex in the neck/hood? I think that’s the main thing that bothers me in winter suits |
| 383033 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 66 | gogo1d | Nov 12, 2025 | 2025-11-12T03:30:27-0500 | fatty said: Anyone have a good recommendation for a 5'4 - 6 mill winter suit that has a lot of flex in the neck/hood? I think that's the main thing that bothers me in winter suits Click to expand... I like the Volcom wetsuits but it was a 543 Hood for Norcal trips. seems like oniel has the most stretchiness however underable it is |
| 383051 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 67 | jonbiz | Nov 12, 2025 | 2025-11-12T06:42:20-0500 | fatty said: Anyone have a good recommendation for a 5'4 - 6 mill winter suit that has a lot of flex in the neck/hood? I think that's the main thing that bothers me in winter suits Click to expand... Again, take a look at the hotline. A lot of suits don't make the neck long enough. Hotline at least for me feels like it's not even there. No restrictions. Best thing is you can call them up. I get nothing from them, I wish I just think they're a good little company that makes the Toyota of wetsuits. |
| 383057 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 68 | NCCoastLife | Nov 12, 2025 | 2025-11-12T07:43:56-0500 | I just got the new redesigned Hyperfreak Fire 4/3+ chest zip directly from O’Neil a little over a week ago. I got the carbon color which on their site told me to go L but XL in the black color. Don’t know what that is about. It is a bit different from the Hyperfreak Fire from a few years ago. I have a back zip 3/2+ that I absolutely love, I got it in Nov 2022. The new version is softer, thinner and extremely stretchy. I can tell that it is going to have a need to babied it is that soft of a material on the arms and shoulders even being “ thicker” than my old one. The knee pads feel like a funky fabric material and I am not fond of them. Ya it is extremely flexible in the knee but not sure the wear factor on them. I got the new suit because my 3/2+ one and I had a funky wipeout where a shoulder high wave denied me access to a quick left and dumped me ass first literally onto a set of NVS twinzer fins. Sliced that 3/2 up like hot techno butter but only gave me a minor scratch. I got to watch the whole thing play out too and how I didn’t in up at Urgent Care I don’t know. Maybe I clinched my ass cheeks so tight that I had a super power. Frog House should be getting my suit fixed up soon hopefully. |
| 383707 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 69 | O'cliff | Nov 15, 2025 | 2025-11-15T00:36:53-0500 | C_M said: Was pretty funny on the erBB - when Buell left Hotline a few of his buddies the posters were promoting his brand on the forum (amazing suits!) and a bunch of guys ordered customs, which turned out to be total crap. The last one I saw about 5 years ago looked like it was meant for Kmart. Click to expand... I live (and surf) on the East Side of SC a couple of blocks from where Buell used to be. Every time I saw one of the regulars in a new Buell I'd ask how they liked it. The answer always was: "I got a really good deal." Me: But how do you like it? Them: "It was a great price." |
| 383741 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 70 | C_M | Nov 15, 2025 | 2025-11-15T08:39:26-0500 | O'cliff said: I live (and surf) on the East Side of SC a couple of blocks from where Buell used to be. Every time I saw one of the regulars in a new Buell I'd ask how they liked it. The answer always was: "I got a really good deal." Me: But how do you like it? Them: "It was a great price." Click to expand... too funny |
| 383757 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 71 | dubstar | Nov 15, 2025 | 2025-11-15T10:39:56-0500 | Dave T said: I think vissla durability is fine but they do get very heavy when wet. Click to expand... I don't find that. Maybe the recent suits don't suffer from that. |
| 383763 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 72 | Singlefinsam | Nov 15, 2025 | 2025-11-15T11:13:02-0500 | C_M said: Hotline does customs. Fit is 75% of the equation, no brainer if you live in Santa Cruz area. Click to expand... Anyone know how the off-the-rack Hotline suits fit compared to O'neill? I've always used O'neill but my last hyper freak had some issues. I'm due for a new 5/4. |
| 383793 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 73 | C_M | Nov 15, 2025 | 2025-11-15T13:47:01-0500 | dubstar said: I don't find that. Maybe the recent suits don't suffer from that. Click to expand... I really like the entry Vissla took from AXXE, almost made me buy one of their suits. A big problem with enough suits today seems to be no inner gasket. For example I have a Feral 4.5/3.5 or 4/3 (can't remember which) I bought this summer with a Mollusk gift card... haven't used it yet but the first thing I noticed it's got no gasket. That almost always equates to flushing in bigger waves or wedgey conditions - unless your shoulders fit the curve of flap perfect and your neck fits the neck opening spot on. These are silly shortcuts manufacturers make either because it's a cost cutting point or they can't figure out how to do one properly with their suit design so it doesn't end in a warranty claim. I can't vouch for Lanty but was just looking at their 25-26 lineup... 3 different entry options...suits look great and about on par $$$ with the OTR wetsuit brands. https://lanty-surf.com/pdf/2025-26FW.pdf Anyone tried one? |
| 383801 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 74 | C_M | Nov 15, 2025 | 2025-11-15T13:59:19-0500 | Toshi's Marine Project with their newer double zip chest zip looks nice: As does their attached hood suit for cold: |
| 383863 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 75 | Cbadboardhound | Nov 15, 2025 | 2025-11-15T18:57:03-0500 | DepthFunction said: I have a last season Isurus 2mm they claim to be as warm as 3/2. So far it's been warmer than my other 2mm, which is Patagonia. Has anyone tried the hooded 3mm Feral suit in SoCal? It seems like that'd be a nice versatile suit to go up and down the CA coast in - assuming it's not too hot for SoCal and too cold for NorCal. Click to expand... I have it and absolutely love it! It's my go to for the 53-58 range whenever san Diego gets that cold. Also a fav dawn patrol suit. It's definitely as warm or warmer than 4/3's I've had in the past |
| 383925 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 76 | john john | Nov 16, 2025 | 2025-11-15T23:34:17-0500 | gigamots said: If you haven't tried on a natural rubber wetsuit in a while, I recommend giving them a shot. Natural rubber has improved a lot over the past few years. I tried on a Patagonia a few years back and thought it sucked. The Patagonia R4 I bought for last winter is now one of my favorite suits. Also got a Need Essentials 3/2 in natural rubber (ocena) recently and it is incredibly comfortable with a very easy bib entry (similar to u zip) Click to expand... I agree the newer Patagonia suit is very different from the old ones |
| 383951 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 77 | jonbiz | Nov 16, 2025 | 2025-11-16T07:00:25-0500 | I think the biggest thing you can do is be honest and find a suit that fits your body best. Once this is achieved, the comfort and warmth is huge. I chatting with a few companies, the new yomamoto suits must be ti Singlefinsam said: Anyone know how the off-the-rack Hotline suits fit compared to O'neill? I've always used O'neill but my last hyper freak had some issues. I'm due for a new 5/4. Click to expand... i would say for me better. I used to be an O'Neil guy. I need to go one size up with O'Neil. |
| 383959 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 78 | Spiral Bee | Nov 16, 2025 | 2025-11-16T09:09:51-0500 | Don'tThinkJustGo said: Patagonia I got on sale during the holidays - two years ago and mostly used up north. Biggest letdown for the price: decent durability, but it's the heaviest, stiffest suit I've worn. Warmest too. They offer repairs, but I haven't tried that ) Click to expand... I held off on Patagonia Yulex for that reason until I heard that they'd developed a more pliable version, so last spring I bit on a 3.5 hooded that seems plenty flexible (and only slightly less so than e.g., Isurus Yamamoto). jonbiz said: Again, take a look at the hotline. A lot of suits don't make the neck long enough. Hotline at least for me feels like it's not even there. No restrictions. Best thing is you can call them up. I get nothing from them, I wish I just think they're a good little company that makes the Toyota of wetsuits. Click to expand... And their booties rock … especially on rocks. |
| 384015 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 79 | scurchin | Nov 16, 2025 | 2025-11-16T13:43:28-0500 | Spiral Bee said: I held off on Patagonia Yulex for that reason until I heard that they'd developed a more pliable version, so last spring I bit on a 3.5 hooded that seems plenty flexible (and only slightly less so than e.g., Isurus Yamamoto). And their booties rock … especially on rocks. Click to expand... it seems that wear and it`s connection to activity is the common, then a custom is the way, three times the ratio... |
| 384073 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 80 | O'cliff | Nov 16, 2025 | 2025-11-16T17:01:55-0500 | A word about the Hotline split-toe booties: They were recommended to me by a couple of people in a different thread. I went to their shop to try them on, and am glad I did. They are extremely well constructed, and would give more foot protection than anything I've ever seen. But I have wide feet and really struggled to get them on and off. The lack of heel loops made it worse, but even if they had the loops they would have been no-go for me I ended up with XCEL Drylocks. Didn't realize they offered half sizes, so I got size 10 like I always do (I wear 10.5 street shoes). Had a few surfs in the new boots, and am very happy with my choice! |
| 384079 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 81 | Spiral Bee | Nov 16, 2025 | 2025-11-16T17:16:37-0500 | O'cliff said: A word about the Hotline split-toe booties: They were recommended to me by a couple of people in a different thread. I went to their shop to try them on, and am glad I did. They are extremely well constructed, and would give more foot protection than anything I've ever seen. But I have wide feet and really struggled to get them on and off. Click to expand... That's odd. I have 3EEE feet and haven't run into such issues. Glad the Xcels work for you! |
| 384085 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 82 | john john | Nov 16, 2025 | 2025-11-16T17:36:49-0500 | Im not usually a fan of wetsuit gloves, but the patagonia ones are pretty great when it's really really cold. ( I live in Washington where it gets cold, but not Boston cold or anything.) |
| 384147 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 83 | crowded | Nov 17, 2025 | 2025-11-16T20:14:03-0500 | Matuse has their annual spend more, save more sale. $500 off if you spend $1200, $280 off if you spend $800, $100 off if you send $400. Pretty good score there. |
| 384239 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 84 | Bighouse | Nov 17, 2025 | 2025-11-17T11:52:29-0500 | _ctrlb said: The past two winter seasons I've had a Feral 3/2, and a Buell hooded 4m. That Feral was my first Yamamoto suit and it is well worth the price premium IMO. The 4m is due to be replaced before winter fully sets in. At this point I would like it to replace it with a Crooked hooded 4/3, I've read some positive reports here and the $50 wetsuit exchange discount is compelling, but I like the lack of fuzzy liner that Feral has. Feral only makes a hooded "5/4/3", which they say is close to alternative hooded 4/3's, but I'm less than compelled. Also, why no vizor on the hood, Feral? In the end I'll probably go with a Crooked hooded 4/3 still weighing options. Click to expand... I'm on my 2nd Crooked. Just got the 4/3 hooded (3rd season on my 5mm coming up). Surfed an overhead day with lots of duck diving and did a 5 mile paddle on the prone this weekend. Its light, flexible and doesn't flush. It feels good to give to a smaller company. At this point, only other suit I would buy is an Isurus. |
| 384259 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 85 | Spiral Bee | Nov 17, 2025 | 2025-11-17T13:00:20-0500 | Bighouse said: I'm on my 2nd Crooked. Just got the 4/3 hooded (3rd season on my 5mm coming up). Surfed an overhead day with lots of duck diving and did a 5 mile paddle on the prone this weekend. Its light, flexible and doesn't flush. It feels good to give to a smaller company. At this point, only other suit I would buy is an Isurus. Click to expand... Crooked are great. Their 5 mil is my winter choice these days. And they're local! |
| 384403 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 86 | john john | Nov 18, 2025 | 2025-11-17T21:35:02-0500 | Spiral Bee said: Crooked are great. Their 5 mil is my winter choice these days. And they're local! Click to expand... I haven't looked at these before, but they do look interesting, I'll have to take a deeper dive into their offerings. |
| 384865 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 87 | global | Nov 19, 2025 | 2025-11-19T18:02:46-0500 | +1 for Isurus. I’m going in to my 5th season with three of their suits. Wish they made a 3/3 hooded front zip. |
| 384891 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 88 | Spenped12 | Nov 20, 2025 | 2025-11-19T19:06:17-0500 | Was reading this the other day to say Feral is going downhill but it turned out my buddy's old ass suit got swapped with my new one and I was convinced the suit just fell apart super fast. We figured it out recently because he is a medium and I was blown away by how new his looked. Guess they are still my favorite out there. Also the owner is super rad and not a mega corp type thing. |
| 385287 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 89 | Ocean Man | Nov 21, 2025 | 2025-11-21T18:55:59-0500 | DepthFunction said: I have a last season Isurus 2mm they claim to be as warm as 3/2. So far it's been warmer than my other 2mm, which is Patagonia. Has anyone tried the hooded 3mm Feral suit in SoCal? It seems like that'd be a nice versatile suit to go up and down the CA coast in - assuming it's not too hot for SoCal and too cold for NorCal. Click to expand... I picked up that Feral hooded 3mm recently. First session with it this morning and I was pretty toasty in it. Water temp ~63 degrees, air temp 55. I'm in San Diego, but I'll be using this in Santa Cruz often as well. I'll report back around February when it's actually cold. |
| 385297 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 90 | Lazy Paddler | Nov 22, 2025 | 2025-11-21T19:24:19-0500 | Ocean Man said: I picked up that Feral hooded 3mm recently. First session with it this morning and I was pretty toasty in it. Water temp ~63 degrees, air temp 55. I'm in San Diego, but I'll be using this in Santa Cruz often as well. I'll report back around February when it's actually cold. Click to expand... That's awesome, I'm in SD as well and go up to Bay Area frequently so the 3+ felt like a nice 2 in 1 solution. Did you wear it with the hood during your sesh or just left it hanging? |
| 385673 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 91 | vahewa | Nov 24, 2025 | 2025-11-24T13:49:12-0500 | Ocean Man said: I picked up that Feral hooded 3mm recently. First session with it this morning and I was pretty toasty in it. Water temp ~63 degrees, air temp 55. I'm in San Diego, but I'll be using this in Santa Cruz often as well. I'll report back around February when it's actually cold. Click to expand... (Santa Cruz resident here) I wear my 3mm hooded for almost all my surfing. I'm on my 4th. Best combination of warmth/flexibility, can hardly notice the hood. I still keep a 543 around, but strictly for early early surfs winter/spring, doesn't get much play otherwise. |
| 385955 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 92 | Ocean Man | Nov 26, 2025 | 2025-11-25T19:21:25-0500 | DepthFunction said: That's awesome, I'm in SD as well and go up to Bay Area frequently so the 3+ felt like a nice 2 in 1 solution. Did you wear it with the hood during your sesh or just left it hanging? Click to expand... A few more sessions in and I'm loving it. Feels like the perfect suit for SD. I mainly surf first light and will have the hood on for the initial brisk air and paddle, but the hood comes down and sits on my neck for the almost the entire sesh. I'm sure that'll change once morning air temps are back in the 40s. vahewa said: (Santa Cruz resident here) I wear my 3mm hooded for almost all my surfing. I'm on my 4th. Best combination of warmth/flexibility, can hardly notice the hood. I still keep a 543 around, but strictly for early early surfs winter/spring, doesn't get much play otherwise. Click to expand... Sweet, I'm hyped to hear it works well up there also! How long do these suits typically last you before replacing them? |
| 385977 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 93 | vahewa | Nov 26, 2025 | 2025-11-25T21:27:10-0500 | Ocean Man said: A few more sessions in and I'm loving it. Feels like the perfect suit for SD. I mainly surf first light and will have the hood on for the initial brisk air and paddle, but the hood comes down and sits on my neck for the almost the entire sesh. I'm sure that'll change once morning air temps are back in the 40s. Sweet, I'm hyped to hear it works well up there also! How long do these suits typically last you before Click to expand... Ocean Man said: A few more sessions in and I'm loving it. Feels like the perfect suit for SD. I mainly surf first light and will have the hood on for the initial brisk air and paddle, but the hood comes down and sits on my neck for the almost the entire sesh. I'm sure that'll change once morning air temps are back in the 40s. Sweet, I'm hyped to hear it works well up there also! How long do these suits typically last you before replacing them? Click to expand... I find I get 18-24mo out of them. Surfing 4x-7x/wk. decent about rinsing them with fresh water etc. they might take a little longer on the initial break-in then other brands, but once they are broken in they're $$$. |
| 386141 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 94 | fatty | Nov 26, 2025 | 2025-11-26T17:59:26-0500 | I’ve been wearing a 5’4 psycho tech for a few years now, ever since getting it new the only thing that gets cold is my balls, maybe a leak since I got it but not sure. What an easy wetsuit to take on and off tho and flexibility is great. I even skimboard in it when the shorebreak is pumping. |
| 387387 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 95 | sauce | Dec 3, 2025 | 2025-12-03T10:52:45-0500 | First sesh in my 4/3 hooded e-bomb zipperless. Only one session so can't speak on it too much but initial thoughts: Im 6ft 190 lbs , big butt/hips and shoulders. I got an XLS . Not terribly cold water, like 57ish, but decent 10-25 mph offshore, and around 50 degree air. Not too bad but a little chilly for a pansy like myself. The good: easily the most comfortable suit I've ever worn And fit pretty perfectly snug. Not restictive at all. soft and very light. Easy to get on. Never got even close to cold. Never leaked anywhere, and never flushed. The bad: Left ankle wanted to come up over my booty on a few spills. Might need a strap or tape for my skinny non-leashed ankle. Took 10 mins to get off!! I was squirming like a worm in every direction trying to get this thing over/off my shoulders to the point where I almost asked for a stranger's help. Im gonna have to get that wetsuit winch thing or make one ughh. I would still pick this over any of my past suits from O'Neil/ xcel / billabong. Very interested in the flashbomb fusion if I get a nice bonus this year. |
| 387535 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 96 | b1lf | Dec 4, 2025 | 2025-12-03T23:25:12-0500 | A wetsuit review after 1 session? lol |
| 387565 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 97 | Fubar | Dec 4, 2025 | 2025-12-04T08:08:04-0500 | I'm heading into my 33rd winter here in Mass. 12 years ago I spent big and bought a Matuse Tumo 6/5. That suit still works as a backup and Matuse is going to replace the zipper at their cost. I just bought a new Tumo 6/5. It's very thick rubber with only a single layer of fabric liner. I've decided to spend 2x or more on suits that last for many years. A close second is the Isurus 6/5. It's more flexible and fits a little better, but possibly not as warm. I'm selling mine in favor of Matuse. A distant third, but still solid, is my Feral 5/4. It's on the thin side, durable and flexible. I used in October, November, April and May. |
| 389013 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 98 | Hatin2perl | Dec 11, 2025 | 2025-12-11T00:56:33-0500 | Has anyone try Lexol wetsuit? Any feedback on material and sizing would be appreciated. |
| 389023 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 99 | _ctrlb | Dec 11, 2025 | 2025-12-11T07:18:47-0500 | Does anyone have multi-year reports on how Crooked suits hold up? Other than the knees wearing out, I'm happy with how my Feral 3/2 is holding up. Probably need to get a new hooded 4/3 this winter and debating about picking up a Crooked suit, or spending the extra coin and getting a Feral hooded 5/4/3. |
| 389025 | 23997 | The new great unbiased wetsuit review thread | 100 | seelegs | Dec 11, 2025 | 2025-12-11T07:38:17-0500 | _ctrlb said: Does anyone have multi-year reports on how Crooked suits hold up? Other than the knees wearing out, I'm happy with how my Feral 3/2 is holding up. Probably need to get a new hooded 4/3 this winter and debating about picking up a Crooked suit, or spending the extra coin and getting a Feral hooded 5/4/3. Click to expand... Have a 5/4 crooked and was about two winters and it started to leak at the seams. Probably my own fault. I liked the suit and still use it for shoulder seasons as a spare or with base layers. I'm on year four now and that's been the only issue. Been thinking about grabbing a 3/2 and a 4/3 from them in the future with the wetsuit recycling discount. |
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