When it comes to surfing, there are no dull moments. Surfers would do what it takes to be able to surf, despite any weather condition. As long as there are waves, they will always find ways to ride these. If you can’t hold yourself from surfing, even during winter, you need an exceptional wetsuit to keep your body warm.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Best Winter Wetsuits in Review
Several brands in the market might give you a hard time in deciding. Here are some of the best winter wetsuits for surfing for your consideration.
- Triathlon Wetsuit 5/3mm by Synergy (Men)
- Psycho Tech 5.5/4mm Chest Zip Full Wetsuit by O’Neill (Men)
- 4/3Mm Syncro Series Wetsuit by Roxy (Women)
- Wetsuits Premium by Neo-Sport (Men)
- Wetsuits Jumpsuit Neoprene 5/4mm by Lemorecn (Unisex)
- Epic 4/3mm Full Wetsuit by O’Neill (Men)
- Wetsuit Premium 5mm Fullsuit by Layatone (Men)
- Voodoo 4mm Hooded Front Zip Fullsuit by Hyperflex (Men)
- Full Surfing Jumpsuit by REALON (Men)
- 5mm Neoprene Full Wetsuit by Pandawoods (Men)
#1. Triathlon Wetsuit 5/3mm by Synergy (Men) – Best Overall Winter Wetsuit for Men
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene and Silicone
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness on Core: 5mm
- Thickness on Lower Legs and Back: 2mm
- Available Color: Black
You can never go wrong with the Triathlon Wetsuit 5/3mm by Synergy if you need a winter wetsuit for optimum performance. It features Hydrodynamic Neoprene from Yamamoto #39, which provides an ease to surfers to move their arms and legs. Plus, it comes with an SCS Silicone coating for durability.
This wetsuit comes with the ideal thickness that can withstand water with colder temperature. It doesn’t also compromise its 680% flexibility despite dipping in chilled water. Also, it features a YKK zipper, which surfers love more because it lessens the drag on every movement.
Another feature that makes this wetsuit recommendable is the soft low neck. It has smoothskin on all sides, which provides comfort to surfers. You’ll love it because you’ll barely feel anything in the neck-part. Also, it’s anti-chafing.
What you’ll admire more about this wetsuit is the super-soft inner lining. Aside from comfort, surfers have the ample warmth they need as they dip in the water, making it one of the most recommended wetsuits for the winter season.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Uses Yamamoto #39 material | Only available in black color |
| Has 5mm Aqualift advantage | Provides limited agility |
#2. Psycho Tech 5.5/4mm Chest Zip Full Wetsuit by O’Neill (Men) – Best in Flexibility
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene and Rubber
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness on Core: 5.5mm
- Thickness on Lower Legs and Back: 4mm
- Available Color: Black, Black/Black, or Black/Midnight Oil
O’Neill is one of the pioneers of wetsuits, and if you need one of their best sellers, you should buy the Psycho Tech 5.5/4mm Chest Zip Full Wetsuit. It’s available in three styles, yet all are outstanding when it comes to fitting because it can stretch enough to the form of the surfer’s body.
It features Weld and Fluid seams, coming from a Silicone-based Urethane seal. It also uses a Blind Stitched seam-method, making this wetsuit exceptionally lightweight and flexible. You’ll love to wear it because it doesn’t let excessive water as you paddle and surf.
This wetsuit comes with a water-resistant zipper that functions as a water barrier and draining holes to reduce the drag as you swim. It provides a loose and dry-feeling to surfers, which makes it comfier to wear.
Customers love wearing this wetsuit because it comes with a TB-Air Firewall technology, which is the most innovative insulate Neoprene material in the market. Along with Trapped Air Technology, these features provide quick-dry properties for warmer feelings.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfortable to wear and get-off | Not competitive in acceleration |
| Uses a water-resistant zipper | Costly |
#3. 4/3mm Syncro Series Wetsuit by Roxy (Women) – Best Overall Winter Wetsuit for Women
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness on Core: 4mm
- Thickness on Lower Legs and Back: 3mm
- Available Color: Black/Gun Metal, Blue Ribbon, Coral Flame, Black, Sea Blue Li
Women surfers struggle in looking for winter wetsuits that will fit them. One of the top picks is the 4/3mm Syncro Series Wetsuit by Roxy. The thickness on the core down to the legs provides a comfy fit. Plus, the back zip system gives further convenience for surfers to wear and remove.
One of its top features is how it can hold from 51 to 58 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s a recommended entry for winter competitions because you’ll feel optimum comfort despite swimming in colder water. Also, the sealed seam construction helps keep water from entering, affecting the warmth it provides to the body.
It uses F’N Lite Neoprene material, which is a combination of 8% Elastane and 92% Nylon on the body-part, while back and chest panels use Thermal Smoothie Neoprene. These materials guarantee maximum buoyancy and comfort as surfers move.
Another thing you’d love about this winter wetsuit is the long back zipper because it helps keep out excessive water. It has an anti-flush gasket to get rid of water, boosting your agility as you swim.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fits well on any body-structure | Can cause allergies on sensitive skin |
| Maximum stretch-ability | The neckline can be too tight |
#4. Wetsuits Premium by Neo-Sport (Men) – Best in Durability
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness on Core: 7mm
- Thickness on Lower Legs and Back: 5mm
- Available Color: Black/Blue, Black/Lavander, or Black
If you’re looking for a brand with exceptional durability, you can count on the Wetsuits Premium by Neo-Sport. It features flatlock seams on the exterior and interior surface to make sure it doesn’t tear easily from paddling. It doesn’t only make it suitable for surfing, but also diving and other water sports.
It’s one of the comfiest winter wetsuits because it comes from a premium-quality of Neoprene material. You can guarantee that it’s comfier to wear because it’s not too tight, and the material is soft. Plus, the Anatomical cut-pattern is responsible for the exceptional body-fitting.
Another feature that makes this outstanding among other brands is the Elastic Nylon fabric, which is an additional relief. This feature also provides maximum flexibility without giving surfers any discomfort regardless of any movement.
A lot of surfers consider this wetsuit because it features Thermal bonded-knee pads, which makes it abrasion-resistant. Also, the internal key pocket and adjustable collar provide an excellent impression to surfers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ideal for water temperature under 48 degrees Fahrenheit | Sizing is too small for others |
| Versatile on other water sports | Gives a weighty feeling |
#5. Wetsuits Jumpsuit Neoprene 5/4mm by Lemorecn (Unisex) – Best Multi-Sport Wetsuit
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness on Core: 5mm
- Thickness on Lower Legs and Back: 4mm
- Available Color: Black/Blue, Black, Black/Grey, Black/Light Blue, Black/Red, Black/Navy Blue, or Black/Purple
Who doesn’t want a versatile wetsuit? If you’re searching for the best one in the market, you should buy the Wetsuits Jumpsuit Neoprene 5/4mm by Lemorecn. It’s ideal for both men and women. Plus, you can wear it for diving, surfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding despite colder water temperature.
This wetsuit features a sturdy YKK back zipper. Customers love it because it’s easy to reach, making it convenient for surfers to go in and out of the wetsuit. The length also varies, depending on your sizing. Also, you’ll love it more because it has a large zip, which keeps water from entering.
It comes from a premium-quality of Neoprene material, which helps in giving warmth to the body. The thickness of this wetsuit on the core, lower back, and legs provides an athletic fit. Also, these features promote excellent mobility, making it ideal for colder water.
Other factors that make this wetsuit more recommendable include the Flatlock seam stitching-method, which lessens seam irritation, and the anti-abrasion knee pads, which reduces scraping. Plus, it also comes with a long leash.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Multi-purpose | Sizes run small |
| Lightweight | Doesn't dry quickly |
#6. Epic 4/3mm Full Wetsuit by O’Neill (Men) – Best Eco-Friendly Wetsuit
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness on Core: 4mm
- Thickness on Lower Legs and Back: 3mm
- Available Color: All Black, Black/Bright Blue, Black/Navy/Black, Black/Oil/Smoke, Black/Graphite/Smoke, or Black/Graphite/Red
If you want an affordable winter wetsuit that performs well, consider O’Neill’s Epic 4/3mm Full Wetsuit. It comes from an excellent quality of UltraFlex DS Neoprene material with a thickness suitable for the winter season. Plus, it uses glued and blind stitched seams to make sure it doesn’t tear easily, even if you paddle with full power.
It features Krypto Knee Padz and Smooth Skin FluidFlex, which surfers love because it blocks the wind as you wear it on competitions or training. This firewall on the back and chest keeps the body warm even when you’re in colder water temperature.
What makes this wetsuit competitive is the F.U.Z.E. Closure advantage or Front Upper Zip Entry. It has a floating zipper panel. Also, surfers admire this feature because it acts as an anti-flush barrier to keep ample water inside the suit for necessary body-warmth.
If you’re concern in the environment, you’ll love this wetsuit more because it uses eco-friendly solvent glue on the seams. It’s free of Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs, and water-based, which gives customers a good impression.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Uses eco-friendly glue | Hard to get in and out |
| Affordable | The longevity of the zipper |
#7. Wetsuit Premium 5mm Fullsuit by Layatone (Men) – Most Stylish Wetsuit for Men
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeve
- Thickness on Core: 5mm
- Thickness on Lower Legs and Back: 3mm
- Available Color: Phantom Camouflage
Layatone is one of the famous wetsuit brands for its style, and the Wetsuit Premium 5mm Fullsuit is a winter wetsuit to consider. It features a camouflage style, adding appeal to the surfer. Also, it comes from an excellent quality of Neoprene material, which makes it very sturdy regardless of forceful movements.
Customers love wearing this wetsuit because it comes with non-slip stickers on the ankle and wrist. These are waterproof, which lessens water-entry as you swim. It also has anti-slip reinforcement on the ankles, knees, and chest for further protection.
The 5mm-thick material makes it very versatile, and it’s one reason why a lot of customers admire it. Aside from surfing, you can also use it for deep diving, winter swimming, and ice diving. It’s thick enough to keep the ideal warmth that your body needs in protecting your vital organs. Plus, it’s glued, and blind-stitching seams prevent water helps in keeping the body warm.
When it comes to comfort, the material on the knees, armpits, and elbows are very stretchable. You will not have a hard time moving as you swim. Also, it can help you swim better in the water with your surfboard.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Has anti-slip reinforcement | Uneasy wetsuit-entry |
| You don't get cold quickly | Can affect the speed |
#8. Voodoo 4mm Hooded Front Zip Fullsuit by Hyperflex (Men) – Best in Thermal Efficiency
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeves
- Thickness on Core: 4mm
- Thickness on Lower Legs and Back: 4mm
- Available Color: Black or Black/Green
If you’re planning to keep your game up during the winter, you’ll need a wetsuit that’s suitable for colder water temperatures, and one of the best brands in the Voodoo 4mm Hooded Front Zip Fullsuit by Hyperflex.
It comes from a premium-quality of Atomic Foam Neoprene material, which is the trademark of this brand. Surfers prefer to wear it during competitions because it assures exceptional thermal insulation. Plus, it guarantees elasticity for maximum performance.
This wetsuit comes with Cyclopse-Cinch TM and Reactacore+ TM Hood that fits well. These help in keeping the face warm. It also features Reactacore+ Insulation panels provide added padding for the chest and back, for further warmth.
If you’re looking for convenience in getting in and out, you’ll love the Cocoon Entry System of this wetsuit. There’s no hassle in coming out of it after a good surf. Aside from this advantage, it also comes with Duratex knee pads, which are abrasion-resistant. It will protect the knees, letting you perform without any restrictions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Features a double blind-stitched method | Has an undesirable odor |
| Comes with a hood for head-protection | Not stylish |
#9. Full Surfing Jumpsuit by REALON (Men) – Meek yet Comfy
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeve
- Thickness on Core: 4mm
- Thickness on Lower Legs and Back: 5mm
- Available Color: Black, Blue, Gray, or Red
The Full Surfing Jumpsuit by REALON is one of the best winter wetsuits for surfers because it features a Super-Elastic design. This advantage gives exceptional flexibility on the underarms, ankles, and knees, letting you move freely and effectively along waves. Aside from surfing, its buoyancy makes it ideal for other water sports, like scuba diving and paddleboarding.
Customers love this wetsuit because the fitting construction provides optimum comfort. It may look meek, having classic colors, yet it’s comfy to wear, allowing you to execute your tricks along with your surfboard. Plus, the Neoprene material doesn’t only assure flexibility, but also sturdiness.
This wetsuit comes with a durable zipper from Neoprene gusset. It’s beneficial to surfers because it averts flushing, which helps in keeping an excellent body warmth. It also stops the zipper from sliding down, even when you spend long hours in the water.
Another edge of this wetsuit is that it has added buoyancy in water pressure. It’s wind-resistant, thanks to its chest and back sharkskin panels. These advantages help surfers perform at their best despite colder temperatures, from 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suitable for 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit | Not suitable for Spearfishing |
| Wind-resistant | Meek styles |
#10. 5mm Neoprene Full Wetsuit by Pandawoods (Men) – Best in Protection
Specifications
- Material: Neoprene
- Type: Full Sleeve
- Thickness on Core: 5mm
- Thickness on Lower Legs and Back: 5mm
- Available Color: Black
The 5mm Neoprene Full Wetsuit by Pandawoods is a recommended winter wetsuit for surfers because it can keep the body warm in cold water temperature. It preserves an excellent body warmth even when the temperature goes down from 59 to 23 degrees Fahrenheit.
The #10 YKK back zipper from metal material reduces water penetration despite riding big waves. It doesn’t provide any discomfort on the skin. Also, it comes with a lengthy zipper-strap for doffing or donning with ease.
The full wetsuit comes from an excellent quality of SCR Neoprene material with Nylon, providing ample comfort as you paddle and move with your surfboard. The durability is not questionable because it uses the glued blind stitching method to avoid chafing.
Another feature that makes this wetsuit admirable to surfers is the full sleeve style, which is UV-resistant. It doesn’t only protect your skin from harmful rays, but also pointy rocks, coral reef, or jellyfish.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suitable for 45 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit | Not suitable for Spearfishing |
| Wind-resistant | Meek styles |
Top Pick – Triathlon Wetsuit 5/3mm by Synergy (Men)
The Triathlon Wetsuit 5/3mm by Synergy is the top pick among these winter wetsuits for its versatility, performance, and durability.
Aside from triathlon, people love wearing this full wetsuit for surfing. The 2mm HiFlex makes it easier for surfers to paddle, while the 5mm AquaLift adds further buoyancy, which surfers love because it helps their legs keep balance as they stand on the board. Also, it comes with an internal and non-corrosive YKK zipper, lessening the drag as you stand on the board.
The Super Soft Inner Lining is favorable to surfers during winter because it provides excellent body warmth. The thickness from the upper body to the legs doesn’t’ compromise the performance of the surfer.
When it comes to durability, it doesn’t fail to satisfy surfers because it uses high-quality Hydrodynamic Neoprene material from Yamamoto #39. It also comes with SCS Silicone coating to make it long-lasting even if you use it frequently in surfing.
Winter wetsuits are thicker, yet if you want the best surfing performance, you should buy the Triathlon Wetsuit 5/3mm by Synergy. It may be dense, yet it can help you move without any hassle.
Getting the Best Winter Wetsuits for Surfing – Buyers Guide
In finding the best winter wetsuit for surfing, you need to consider a few things, such as the following buyer’s guide:
Wetsuits Type
Two common wetsuit types are widely available in the market.
Shortie
This type only covers the upper arms, thighs, and torso. It allows unrestricted limb movements, which makes it suitable for swimming or surfing. It’s excellent in elasticity as well. However, using it during winter may not be desirable. You’ll need to cover as many body parts as possible, especially if it’s cold outside.
Full Suit
This type covers almost everything, from the neck to feet, and sometimes it includes a hood. It typically has a thickness, like 6/5mm, 5/4mm, 4/3mm, 3/2mm, yet it varies, depending on the brand. If you’re looking for a winter wetsuit, this type is the ideal one for surfers.
Thickness of Wetsuit
One of the most crucial factors to consider in looking for winter wetsuits is the thickness. It’s essential to make sure that what you’re wearing can handle colder winds and water temperatures, even when you’re solely surfing.
2mm to 3mm Thickness
These are only advisable during summertime. Even though you’re looking at a full wetsuit, if it’s 2mm or 3mm-thick, it can only handle water temperature from 66 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit. This range is ideal for surfing, but not during winter.
4mm Thickness
This type is an excellent entry-level for the winter season. It’s only mostly available in a full wetsuit, and sometimes it includes boots as an option. It’s ideal for a water temperature range of 59 to 54 degrees Fahrenheit.
5mm Thickness
Most winter wetsuits available in the market have 5mm thickness. It’s necessary for a temperature of 54 to 48 degrees Fahrenheit because your body will need the best protection it can get from coldness. Also, gloves and a hood is optional, yet you’ll need footwear. It’s also ideal for surfing, but you’ll have to adjust in riding a board with boots.
6mm Thickness
This type is the thickest, and it’s best for a temperature of 48 to 43 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s the best winter wetsuit for other activities, but not for surfing. You’ll also need other accessories, such as boots, gloves, and a hood.
Seams and Stitching
Aside from thickness, the stitching of the wetsuit is also essential. If a wetsuit is well-fit, you will not have any struggle in keeping body warmth. Stitching involves panels that manufacturers join together. Here are four types:
Flatlock Stitching
This method is the overlying of two Neoprene materials and stitching these along with the seam. It uses the indirect method, leaving little holes for breathability. However, it may give you chills as you use a wetsuit with this stitching during winter.
Overlock Stitching
This stitching method is the most common way to sew two Neoprene pieces, but it’s not the best option if you want to keep the water out of your wetsuit. This method is advisable for summertime wetsuits.
Glued and Blind Stitched (GBS)
This method uses glue after sewing two Neoprene materials halfway. It makes the seam watertight, preventing excessive water from coming in. It doesn’t leave any holes, making it suitable for winter surfing.
Welded Seam
This approach uses an Urethan seal to connect Neoprene panels. It’s Silicone-based, and it functions as the barrier of water. You can guarantee that no cold water can come in your suit because it doesn’t use any needle
Wetsuit Zip Entries
The zip entry is also one of the factors you need to consider in looking for winter wetsuits because each affects maintaining body warmth as you wear it for surfing.
Zip-Free Entry
This entry is the best among the three because there’s no restriction. It provides excellent flexibility, it makes the wetsuit lighter, and it makes it watertight. It’s best for winter because it adds warmth, lessening the water flush.
Chest Zip Entry
This entry is also ideal for flexibility, yet it’s time-consuming to wear. It’s a flap across the chest-part, which is the smaller opening. On the bright side, the seal is better because it can keep your body warmer.
Back Zip Entry
This type is common to a lot of wetsuits. It’s from the spine’s base to the collar’s back, which creates a big opening. It’s the most convenient way to wear and remove the suit. However, it can let water in, which can give you chill if you’re surfing colder water.
Wetsuits 101: How They Work
Most surfers wear a wetsuit, but not everyone knows how they work. If you’re a newbie, it’s essential to understand why you need to wear one.
The primary reason you need to wear wetsuits is to keep your body warm, regardless of whether it’s summertime or winter. As long as you dip your body in water, you’ll need body warmth to protect your body from chilling.
The Neoprene material does most of the parts if you ‘re curious to know how it can protect your body from coldness. As you dip your body in cold water, this material lets you trap ample water inside the skin. After that, the skin will start releasing heat, which keeps the body warm.
It’s essential to find a wetsuit that’s not too tight or loosen. Regardless of any thickness, if it’s not the best fit for your body, you’ll struggle in keeping your body warm as you surf during winter.
Also, you need to pay attention to the thickness because some surfers don’t know how to read the measurement of thickness. You’ll find wetsuits that are 6/5mm or 4/3mm thick. The higher number is how thick the Neoprene material on the torso is. As for the lower number, it’s the thickness on the legs and arms.
Tips in Taking Care of Wetsuits
A wetsuit is not a cheap investment. It’s not something you buy weekly, even if you’re a surfer by profession. It’s essential to know how to take good care of if you don’t want to keep on buying a new one.
- In cleaning your wetsuit, always use cold and freshwater. Never use hot water because it can ruin your wetsuit’s flexibility. Also, saltwater should be out of the picture when it comes to rinsing it. The residue of salt, sand, or chlorine can affect its durability.
- If you want to remove your wetsuit’s odor, use wetsuit shampoo. Some of the factors that can make your wetsuit smelly are urine, algae, sweat, and oil. Some are inevitable, which is why you need to clean it using this shampoo.
- In drying your wetsuit, always use a plastic hanger. You also need to hang your wetsuit indoors, like on shower rods, until it dries. There shouldn’t be any direct sunlight if you don’t want to ruin the material.
- Don’t fold the wetsuit after it dries up. Allot space in your cabinet where you can hang it as is after drying because folds can also ruin the material. It can even leave unwanted marks.
Conclusion
As you search for the best winter wetsuits for surfing, it’s essential to check brands that can offer 4mm to 5mm of thickness. Since you’ll need enough body warmth, this factor will make sure you’re not chilling as you ride waves.
Aside from the material, some factors that you need to consider as well are the zip entry and stitching construction. There should be limited water entry to keep your body warm during surfing.
You can consider these top brands if you can’t decide which winter wetsuit to pick from various options. Some are ideal for surfing and on different activities, like triathlon, diving, or spearfishing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Should I buy winter wetsuits with a hood for surfing?
Q: Are drysuits better than wetsuits in surfing?
Q: Do surfers need a full-body wetsuit in surfing during winter?
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G’day, my name is Rach Taylor and I’m the proud Founder of Surf Hungry. I am a former Australian Olympic athlete and Australian representative surf sports athlete. I’ve worked in the surf industry and lived at many of Australia’s best surf spots, sparking a life-long love of the ocean and a passion for surf sports which also rubbed off on my two young sons! I am also lucky to spend a lot of ocean-time in my favorite second home, Indonesia. In addition to SurfHungry I have founded several other websites in my areas of passion, namely coffee and rock climbing, and am also a regular rowing content contributor.
