Water activities have been the favorites of people as they prefer to spend their weekends at the beach. It’s one of the best ways to unwind from a stressful week, and some of the activities that people love are scuba diving, snorkeling, and surfing. If you’re becoming more interested in participating as well, you should get a wetsuit top.
Wetsuit tops are the best options next to full wetsuits because you’ll need heat insulation as you dip your body in the water, especially when it’s very cold. Also, it’s an excellent pair with bikinis or boardshorts. However, you’ll stumble on many options in the market, leaving you undecided. To help you out, here are the best wetsuit tops to consider.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Best Wetsuit Tops Reviewed
- 1.5mm Long Sleeve Top by O’Neill
- 3mm Long Sleeve Wetsuit Jacket by Surf Squared
- 3mm Wetsuits Top by Lemorecn
- 2mm Absolute Comp Long Sleeve Jacket by Billabong
- 1.5mm Neoprene Wetsuit Top by ZCCO
- 2mm Long Sleeve Jacket by CtriLady
- 2mm Wetsuit Top by Goldfin
- 1.5mm Short Sleeve Top by O’Neill
- 3mm Long Sleeve Jacket by Hevto
- 5mm Long Sleeve Wetsuit Jacket by pandawoods
#1. 1.5mm Long Sleeve Top by O’Neill
Specifications
- Material: neoprene and rubber
- Zip-Type: back zip
- Construction: flatlock stitching
- Style: slate and cool grey
Performance is crucial when it comes to water activities, and you’ll need the best wetsuit top you can find if you’re going out to surf. The 1.5mm Long Sleeve Top by O’Neill is worth your money.
It doesn’t disappoint when it comes to its flexibility. Every stroke is effective as you swim. Plus, it doesn’t restrict any movement, which is favorable to users.
You can count on its comfort because it comes from a premium-quality of neoprene and rubber materials. There’s a relief as you move your arms while you’re in the water. It has the perfect fit, yet it doesn’t give any discomfort because it’s not too tight.
It also features FluidFlex 2 and UltraFlex technologies for optimum performance, and it also guarantees durability, even if you wear it frequently.
Wearing or removing this wetsuit top is convenient as well because of its back-zip system. The YKK zipper is sturdy that it will not break easily. Also, it smoothly glides as you open and close it. Plus, it’s excellent to keep excessive water from entering for thermal control.
What you’ll love about this wetsuit is that it comes with a connector loop for the boardshorts. This advantage makes sure that this wetsuit covers your body to keep the water temperature you need.
Aside from that, the super seal collar adds relief to the user, and it comes with an adjustable seal.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with strategic seamless paddle zones | No strap on the zipper at the back |
| Has an exceptional style | Size is too tight for others |
#2. 3mm Long Sleeve Wetsuit Jacket by Surf Squared
Specifications
- Material: neoprene
- Zip-Type: front zip
- Style: black
If you need a thicker wetsuit top that doesn’t give any distress, you can never go wrong with the 3mm Long Sleeve Wetsuit Jacket. This wetsuit top by Surf Squared is famous for its exceptional thermal control. If you’re dipping in colder water temperature, you can assure that the neoprene material traps the necessary water to keep your body warm.
It features an elegant style in its black color, making it easy to pair with boardshorts or bikinis. Plus, it comes with a matte look, making it a heard-turner.
Another edge of this wetsuit top is its easy-entry advantage. You can wear it or take it off with ease. Also, it comes with a thicker zipper padding, which surfers admire. Also, the YKK zipper is durable enough that it will last longer.
When it comes to comfort, you can assure that there is no discomfort on the upper body, no matter how long you wear it. Regardless of any move, you can move without limitations, especially when you’re doing tricks.
Another reason to love this wetsuit top is the extended back flap that protects the waistline for protection. It protects the waistline from cold water flushing or sunburns.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has a back flap-cover on the waistline | Not fit to a user with a muscular build |
| Easy-entry advantage | Hard to break in |
#3. 3mm Wetsuits Top by Lemorecn
Specifications
- Material: neoprene and nylon
- Zip-Type: front-zip
- Construction: flatlock stitching
- Style: black
Another wetsuit top to consider when it comes to water activities is the 3mm Wetsuits Top by Lemorecn. It’s very versatile because you can wear it in most activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and wakeboarding.
Users recommend this wetsuit when it comes to sturdiness because it comes from high-quality neoprene material with a flatlock stitching. Despite big movements, it doesn’t tear easily. Also, there’s a smoother exterior surface, which is an added factor in its appeal.
As for its lining, it also guarantees relief because of its soft-close skin. This feature makes sure you keep the right body-heat you need to keep you going on colder water temperature or climate.
The front-zip system of this wetsuit provides an ease to the user while wearing or removing it. The zipper glides smoothly as well, which makes it more comfortable to secure it while having fun.
What users love about this wetsuit is that it features an exceptional Crewneck design. This advantage secures the neck from the zipper. It also comes with a suture fold-technique, enhancing relief further.
Aside from that, its thickness is suitable for scuba diving as well. This wetsuit top’s thermal control will not compromise comfort even if you stay in the water for long hours.
It may come in a meek style in its black color, yet it doesn’t fail in making it very appealing.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with a classic Crewneck-style | Bigger compared to the size guide |
| High-scalability | Color fades quickly |
#4. 2mm Absolute Comp Long Sleeve Jacket by Billabong
Specifications
- Material: neoprene and nylon
- Zip-Type: back-zip
- Construction: flatlock stitching
- Style: black or blue
When it comes to quality, Billabong is one of the most reliable brands. If you can’t decide where wetsuit top to buy, you should consider buying the 2mm Absolute Comp Long Sleeve Jacket. It’s the best wear for surfing or kayaking because of its exceptional comfort.
It comes from an excellent quality of nylon and neoprene materials, which guarantee flexibility as you move your arms while swimming. There are no limitations on movements. Plus, it also makes sure it will last longer despite frequent usage.
When it comes to performance, this wetsuit top is one of a kind. It features the Superflex technology, making it stretchy enough for every stroke. You get a less-tiring feeling as you swim because of its buoyancy profile as well.
You can also assure that this wetsuit will not tear easily, thanks to its advanced construction techniques. The flatlock stitching makes it durable. Also, it averts excessive water-entry, giving it a lightweight feeling even when you dip your body in the water.
It may only have a thickness of 2mm, yet it doesn’t’ disappoint when it comes to thermal control. It doesn’t flush the water you need inside when it comes to retaining body heat. Even if you stay in cold water for long hours, there’s no distress from shivering.
Aside from that, users admire how it’s convenient to wear and remove. The zip at the back is easy to reach, and it’s short. Plus, it also controls excessive water-entry when you’re in the water.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with a short back-zip | No connection loop |
| Very flexible | Style is too meek |
#5. 1.5mm Neoprene Wetsuit Top by ZCCO
Specifications
- Material: neoprene and nylon
- Zip-Type: front-zip
- Style: black
ZCCO is also one of the most respected brands if you’re looking for a performing wetsuit top. It doesn’t disappoint when it comes to performance because of its SCR neoprene material. There’s added elasticity and comfort, yet it’s not very expensive.
Another feature that you’ll love about this wetsuit is that it protects you from sunburn. Plus, it comes with a tighten cuff-design to improve the effectiveness of its waterproof advantage.
The style of this wetsuit is also impressive because of its black and dark gray combination. Anyone who’s wearing it will make an excellent impression.
It comes from a premium-quality of neoprene material, which provides optimum comfort as you wear it on any water activity. Regardless if you’re surfing, snorkeling, or solely swimming, moving is not a hassle at all.
The front-zip system of this wetsuit makes it hassle-free to remove or wear it. It doesn’t have a loose feeling, securing the wetsuit on the body for better performance.
Aside from that, it’s the best option for a warmer climate or water temperature because it’s only 1.5mm thick. Despite this thickness, it’s excellent in retaining body-heat, when you’re in cold water.
The flexibility of this wetsuit is also the reason why a lot of users recommend it. It assures no discomfort in the upper body because it fits most body-forms, whether you’re skinny or bulky. Also, it doesn’t tear quickly, regardless of big movements.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has sun protection | Not too warm for scuba diving |
| Waterproof | Sizing inaccuracy |
#6. 2mm Long Sleeve Jacket by CtriLady
Specifications
- Material: polyester and neoprene
- Zip-Type: front-zip
- Style: black
Women find it challenging to look for the best wetsuit top because some don’t fit well. The 2mm Long Sleeve Jacket by CtriLady is one of the top picks for women because of its versatility. You can wear it on most water activities, especially surfing and diving. Plus, it also makes an excellent jacket for fashion, especially when you’re in colder weather.
It uses a premium-quality of neoprene material, which provides high scalability, along with heat insulation. It’s excellent in maintaining the warmth you need to stay comfy despite dipping in colder water. Also, users love their elasticity, which doesn’t restrict the arms while moving.
Aside from that, the 2mm-thickness of this wetsuit doesn’t meddle with its performance. You can move without any restriction or hassle because of its flexibility. Also, it has an impressive buoyancy profile while it doesn’t easily give fatigue.
Another edge of this wetsuit top is its convenience because of its front-zip system. You’ll find it more comfortable to wear and remove it. Plus, it comes with two zipper pockets, which secure your stuff while you’re in the water.
Cleaning this wetsuit is hassle-free as well because it only needs cold freshwater. It’s always best to hand-wash it to keep it long-lasting.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has two zipper pockets | Sleeves are shorter than typical lengths |
| Easy to clean | Not snug-fit on the arms |
#7. 2mm Wetsuit Top by Goldfin
Specifications
- Material: neoprene
- Zip-Type: front-zip
- Construction: flatlock stitching
- Style: navy, black with aqua stripes, black/blue, black with pink stripes, or pink
GoldFin is one of the popular wetsuit top-brands, especially for women, because of its competitive collection. If you’re having a hard time looking for the best one, you should consider buying the 2mm Wetsuit Top.
It comes with different designs, and every style is a head-turner as you wear it for surfing or kayaking.
You can count on its comfort because it uses high-quality neoprene material. You can never go wrong with its thermal control because it averts the water from coming in, making it more favorable in colder water temperature. Plus, it’s snug-fit, making it suitable for most body-forms.
Aside from that, it comes with rubber seals inside the cuffs, hem, and collar. This advantage prevents excessive water-entry, along with the flatlock stitching construction of this wetsuit top. You get a comfier feeler even when you stay for long hours in the water.
The front-zip system makes it easy to remove and wear it because the zipper glides smoothly. Also, it’s very sturdy, assuring you that it will last longer despite frequent usage. Plus, it’s also exceptional in preventing water-entry as you swim.
Another reason to love this wetsuit is the one-year warranty. The after-sales service includes a free return policy for 30 days, which most users consider an excellent deal.
This wetsuit top is also flexible, especially when it comes to surfing. Moving your arms is hassle-free while swimming. Plus, there’s reduced fatigue as you move because of its exceptional buoyancy.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with a warranty | The zipper is too high |
| Multi-purpose | Loose on the shoulder |
#8. 1.5mm Short Sleeve Top by O’Neill
Specifications
- Material: neoprene and rubber
- Zip-Type: back-zip
- Construction: flatlock stitching
- Style: black or graphic/black
If you’re not fond of long sleeves, O’Neill makes sure you’ll find what you need from its wide-variety of collection. One of the bestsellers is the 1.5mm Short Sleeve Top, and it’s popular for its elegant style. Also, it comes in a meek yet classy style in all black.
This wetsuit top’s comfort will not be a disappointment because it uses high-quality neoprene and rubber materials. There’s relief on every move, and these materials guarantee sturdiness regardless if you wear it most of the time.
The FluidFlex technology of this wetsuit gives optimum flexibility, one very stroke. It will not easily tire you regardless of any big movement because of its buoyancy. Also, it provides relief to the shoulder because there are no restrictions as you swim in the water.
Another edge of this wetsuit is the flatlock stitching, which makes it tear-resistant. It gives exceptional breathability as you wear it for longer hours. Plus, it averts excessive water-entry, which contributes to its thermal control.
It may be 1.5mm by thickness, yet this wetsuit doesn’t fail to meet users’ expectations regarding thermal control. It traps the right amount of water to keep your body warm, especially when you dip in colder water temperature.
What makes this wetsuit more interesting is that it comes with a connector loop. It’s very handy in keeping the top in-tact with your upper body at any movement.
Aside from that, the collar comes with an adjustable seal, which adds comfort as you wear it. Plus, it also keeps water from coming in.
Wearing or removing this wetsuit top is convenient despite having a back-zip system. It doesn’t give any discomfort, especially when it’s wet. Also, it has a YKK zipper, making it very sturdy.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Features an upgraded reactor-2 advantage | Sizing is too small for others |
| Comes with a connector loop | Uses rubber material |
#9. 3mm Long Sleeve Jacket by Hevto
Specifications
- Material: neoprene and nylon
- Zip-Type: front-zip
- Construction: flatlock stitching
Style: X-men Gray or X-women Gray
Performance is one of the reasons why Hevto is one of the most respected brands because it always meets its customers’ expectations. If you need a top-performing suit, you can never go wrong with the 3mm Long Sleeve Jacket.
This wetsuit top comes with impressive thermal control, making it suitable down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s also 3mm thick, which provides the heat your body needs if you’re planning to scuba dive. Despite its thickness, it doesn’t distress the user while moving on the surface or underwater.
What you’ll admire about this wetsuit top is that it comes in a classy style, and it’s available in two designs. Despite its meek style, it’s a head-turner because of its X-men trademark.
It comes from high-quality neoprene and nylon materials, which provide comfort as you wear it for how many hours. It’s stretchy and responsive to any move underwater. Plus, you can assure that it’s tear-resistant.
This wetsuit top’s front-zip system makes it more comfortable to wear or take it off, especially after dipping in the water. The zipper smoothly glides, preventing any chafing that can damage it. Also, there’s reduced water-entry, which keeps it from getting weighty.
Another reason why it’s a bestseller is that it uses environment-friendly materials. The odor is not harmful. Also, the glue will not cause any harm to marine wildlife.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Uses environment-friendly materialsreactor-2 advantage | Sizing is too big for others |
| Features an Suitable for scuba diving | Sticky zipper |
#10. 5mm Long Sleeve Wetsuit Jacket by pandawoods
Specifications
- Material: neoprene and nylon
- Zip-Type: front-zip
- Construction: glued blindstitch
- Style: black with silver graphics
If you need a thicker wetsuit top, you should check out what pandawoods has to provide. One of the top picks from its collection is the 5mm Long Sleeve Wetsuit Jacket. It’s 5mm by thickness, making it ideal for colder water temperature or climate. It’s the best option for winter water activities.
It comes from a premium-quality of neoprene material, along with environmental-friendly nylon for the lining. You can guarantee maximum comfort as you wear it because it maintains the ideal body-warmth you need. It doesn’t restrict your upper body from moving, regardless if you’re diving, surfing, or snorkeling.
You can also assure that it uses a durable zipper, making it more convenient for doffing and donning. The front-zip type is very favorable because of its easy-entry advantage. Plus, it doesn’t let excessive water inside the top.
Another reason why users recommend it is because of its glued blindstitch construction. This feature is the reason why it’s excellent in controlling water-entry. It slows down water leakage, which contributes to the body-warmth as well. When it comes to texture, it provides smoother exterior and interior surfaces for further relief.
It’s also versatile because you can wear it even when you’re not participating in any water activity. It doesn’t give a vibe that it’s a wetsuit because of its style, which is why it’s also a suitable jacket for winter.
Another advantage of this wetsuit top is that it can protect your upper body from sharp objects while you’re underwater or snorkeling.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Thick enough for cold water temperature | Others find the sizing too small |
| Enhanced thermal control | Looks bulky |
Top Picks – 1.5mm Long Sleeve Top by O’Neill
The 1.5mm Long Sleeve Top by O’Neill is the top pick among this collection because of its exceptional performance. This wetsuit’s thickness contributes to its overall flexibility and comfort, pushing you to your maximum level as you move in the water.
Swimming is more effective, yet you can assure lesser fatigue as you move because of its buoyancy profile. Also, there are no restrictions, especially on the arms and shoulder.
The UltraFlex and FluidFlex 2 of this wetsuit add to its performance, especially on its durability. It will not easily tear even if you wear it frequently. Plus, it gives an excellent fit on most body-forms, regardless if you’re bulky or skinny.
The thermal control of this wetsuit top is also the reason why you should buy it. It’s excellent to maintain the suitable body-heat you need as you swim in colder water. Also, the construction of the wetsuit prevents water-entry, which makes it more favorable to users.
It’s undoubtedly the best option if you’re looking for a reliable wetsuit top, especially when you’re surfing.
Getting the Best Wetsuit Tops – Buyers Guide
Wetsuit tops are better alternatives if you don’t want to wear a full wetsuit down to the lower body. It’s enough to protect you from coldness because it can also prevent water-entry. However, there are other factors you have to consider before buying one. Here’s a buying guide for you.
Types of Wetsuit Tops
When choosing what type to buy, you should consider the water temperature or the climate. Most prefer long sleeves because it provides optimum comfort and heat insulation. It’s also best to use scuba diving or snorkeling because it can maintain the body heat you need while you’re in the water.
Some consider short sleeves to move freely, especially when it comes to water activities that need more action, like surfing, kiteboarding, or kayaking.
Construction of Wetsuit Tops
Aside from the sleeves, the construction is also crucial because it can either prevent or let water inside the suit. Also, it adds to the wetsuit top’s overall durability.
Flatlock Stitching
This construction overlaps two neoprene-pieces, and it’s stitching seams together. It uses a zigzag stitching method, which makes it ideal for water activities during warmer climate or water temperature. It also provides exceptional breathability.
Glued and Blindstitched (GBS)
This type provides a higher quality because neoprene segments are glued together while there’s a stitch halfway through the neoprene material. It’s watertight because it doesn’t leave any holes. Plus, it absorbs a minimum of water.
Welded Seam
This type comes with a silicon-based seal as it joins the neoprene panels, and it’s typically for premium wetsuits. You can assure you that it’s 100% watertight, yet it’s more expensive.
Overlock Stitching
This construction is the meekest way to join two neoprene-pieces, yet it’s not very effective because it tends to flush the water out. Most wetsuits for summer water activities have this construction.
How Neoprene Works
It’s also important to know why most wetsuits use neoprene materials. It’s excellent in trapping water between your skin and the material, which is necessary for thermal control. It’s how it keeps you warm even when you’re in colder water temperature. Also, it has to be fit, so it doesn’t flush the water out.
Conclusion of Best Wetsuit Tops
Wetsuit tops are ideal for most water activities, and you can pair one with bikinis or boardshorts. It’s also available in different thicknesses for the different climate or water temperature. If you don’t want to wear a full wetsuit, you can wear a top to keep you warm as you go surfing, scuba diving, or snorkeling.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Is a wetsuit top enough to keep me warm underwater?
A: Wetsuit tops are enough for heat insulation regardless of any thickness. However, you have to make sure that there is no excessive water-entry. Also, your wetsuit has to be fit to stop water-flushing. A little amount of water is necessary for thermal control.
Q: Can I use a wetsuit top for scuba diving?
A: Yes, you can. It’s best if you can wear a wetsuit that’s at least 3mm and above for better thermal control.
Q: What’s the best zip-type to consider in looking for the best wetsuit-type?
A: It depends on your preference, but the best type is a zip-free one. However, this type is more expensive and not easy to find. Most wetsuit tops use front-zip or back-zip, and between the two, most prefer the front-zip type because of its convenience.
Related Resources
- Bare Wetsuits
- Roka Wetsuits
- Mares Wetsuits
- Huub Wetsuits
- Cressi Wetsuits
- Zone3 Wetsuits
- TYR Wetsuits
- Cheap Wetsuits
Torsten Bird is a talented and adventurous waterman from Western Australia, passionate about surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, hydrofoiling, skimboarding, snowboarding and skateboarding. Torsten has spent countless hours mastering his skills and his dream is to one day represent Australia as an Olympic athlete. Follow Torsten’s adventures on Instagram.
