The Best Wetsuits for Surfing 2025

The Best Wetsuits for Surfing 2025 | Top Picks for Every Wave Rider

Looking for the perfect wetsuit to keep you warm, flexible, and surf-ready in 2025? Whether you’re chasing winter swells or summer sessions, we’ve rounded up the best wetsuits for surfing in 2025 to help you choose the right fit for your needs. 

From high-performance suits to budget-friendly options, this ultimate guide compares the top wetsuits for surfing, outlines key features, and offers tips on what to look for when buying.

Comparison Table: Top Wetsuits for Surfing 2025

Here’s a breakdown of the most common surfboard types and what they’re best suited for:

Season

WetsuitThicknessEntry SystemBest ForPrice Range

Winter

Rip Curl Flashbomb 5/3mm
5/4mmChest ZipWinter Surfing£300–£390

Winter

Xcel Comp + 5/4mm Hooded5/4mmChest ZipMaximum Warmth in Winter conditions£200+

Winter

O’Neill Epic 5/4mm5/4mmChest ZipBudget Winter Option£200–£240

Winter/Shoulder Months

O’Neill Hyperfreak 4/3+4/3+mmChest ZipPerformance & Flexibility in Cool Waters£280–£320

Winter/Shoulder Months

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 4/3mm4/3mmChest ZipPerformance & Comfort in Cooler Waters£200–£250

Summer

O’Neill Hyperfreak 3/2mm + Chest Zip3/2mmChest ZipStretch & Performance for Comps in Warmer Waters£300–£350

Summer

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 3/2mm3/2mmChest ZipStretch & Performance in Warmer Waters£200–£250

Summer

Patagonia R1 Yulex3/2mmBack ZipWarm water & Sustainability£300–£350

Top Picks Breakdown

When it comes to surfing, diving, or any water sport, selecting the right wetsuit can make all the difference in comfort, performance, and protection. In this breakdown, we'll guide you through the top wetsuit picks for various conditions, helping you choose the best option to match your needs. 

Whether you're braving cold waters, seeking flexibility in warm conditions, or need extra durability for intense activities, we've got you covered with a selection of the latest and greatest wetsuits on the market. Let's dive in!

Winter Wetsuits


Winter surf season is here, and if you're planning to stay warm while chasing waves in UK waters, a thicker wetsuit is essential for keeping you super warm. In this part of the blog, we’re diving into the top warmest surfing wetsuits for winter 2025 — a surfing wetsuit that combines cutting-edge insulation, unmatched flexibility, and surfer-approved durability.

Whether you're braving icy beach breaks or cold-water reef setups, this is the gear that’ll keep you out longer and surfing stronger. Let’s take a look at the best winter surfing wetsuits to keep you toasty through the coldest months.

Winter Wetsuits

Rip Curl Flashbomb
5/3mm Wetsuit

The Rip Curl Flashbomb 5/3mm Mens Chest Zip Wetsuit is built for cold-water surfers, offering warmth, flexibility, and quick-drying performance. Made with E6 Flash Lining and E7 neoprene, it provides exceptional stretch and comfort and is the warmest wetsuit at an exceptional price. With a neoprene thickness of 5/3mm, this wetsuit will no doubt keep you nice and snug, and it's worth noting that the Flash lining ensures this wetsuit dries ultra fast, making sure that there is plenty more surf time to be had!
 
For the ladies, we have the epic Rip Curl Flashbomb 5/3mm Chest Zip Wetsuit, which is an excellent, thicker suit designed to handle cold waters while maintaining flexibility! This brand knows what's up, and we really appreciate their attention to detail and fine-tuning their products!

Pros: Fast-drying Flash lining, great thermal insulation
Cons: Higher price tag
Best for: Winter surfers

 

Rip Curl Flashbomb 5/3mm Mens Chest Zip Wetsuit

Xcel Comp + 5/4mm
Hooded Westuit

The Xcel Comp+ Mens 5/4mm Hooded Winter Wetsuit is designed for surfers seeking a balance of warmth, flexibility, and comfort in cold water conditions. Ideal for temperatures ranging from 5°C to 12°C, it's particularly suited for the chilly waters. This suit is a great choice for those on a tight budget as it offers exceptional features when compared to other wetsuits.
 
For the ladies, we highly recommend the Xcel Comp X2 5/4mm Chest Zip Winter Wetsuit for extreme warmth in cold conditions.

Pros: Excellent sealing and warmth, channel flex material.
Cons: Premium pricing
Best for: Pro-level cold water surfing

Xcel Comp + 5/4mm Hooded Westuit

O’Neill Epic 5/4mm
Women’s

The O’Neill Epic 5/4mm Women’s Winter Wetsuit is designed for cold-water surfers seeking warmth and flexibility. Constructed with 100% UltraFlex neoprene, it offers excellent stretch and comfort.
 
Features include a double seal neck closure, lumbar seamless design (LSD), and a re-engineered covert blackout zip, providing a snug fit and reduced water entry.

Pros: Great value, UltraFlex neoprene, GBS seams
Cons: Slightly heavier than top-tier suits
Best for: Winter warmth on a budget

O’Neill Epic 5/4mm Women’s Winter Wetsuit

Shoulder Season Wetsuits


As the seasons shift and the water temperatures hover between warm and wintery in the UK waters, shoulder season calls for a wetsuit that can handle it all. You need just the right balance of warmth from your body heat, flexibility, and breathability to keep you a bit warmer through cool dawn patrols and surfing sunlit afternoon sessions. 


In this section, we’re highlighting the top shoulder season wetsuit for 2025 — a suit built to adapt, perform, and keep you in the water when conditions are at their most unpredictable.

 

SHOULDER SEASON WETSUITS

O’Neill Hyperfreak 4/3+
Chest Zip Wetsuit

The O'Neill Hyperfreak 4/3+ Chest Zip Wetsuit for men and women offers flexibility, warmth, and performance with TechnoButter 3 and TB3X neoprene. It's 4/3+ design adds 0.5mm for extra insulation, while the F.U.Z.E. closure system provides a secure fit and minimal water entry.

Pros: UltraFlex neoprene, feather-light, warm yet flexible
Cons: Not the warmest for deep winter
Best for: All-round performance in mild to cool waters

O’Neill Hyperfreak 4/3+ Chest Zip Wetsuit

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 4/3mm
Chest Zip Wetsuit

The Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 4/3mm Chest Zip Wetsuit is a standout choice for surfers seeking a balance between high-end performance and affordability. Incorporating premium features typically found in more expensive suits, it offers warmth, flexibility, and durability suitable for various water conditions.

Pros: E5 neoprene, E4 thermox flex, warm while maintaining maneuverability
Cons: Not ideal for super cold waters
Best for: All surfing levels!

 
Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 4/3mm Chest Zip Wetsuit

Summer Wetsuits


When the water warms up and summer swells start rolling in, it’s time to swap out the thick rubber for something lighter. Summer season wetsuits are all about freedom, offering just enough warmth for early sessions or breezy air temperatures without sacrificing flexibility or comfort.

Let's dive into the top summer wetsuit for 2025 — the perfect blend of lightweight protection, stretch, and style to keep you cool, comfortable, and stoked all summer long.

Summer Wetsuits

O’Neill Hyperfreak 3/2mm +
Chest Zip Wetsuit

The O’Neill Hyperfreak 3/2mm + Chest Zip Wetsuit is engineered for surfers seeking exceptional flexibility and comfort in warmer waters. Utilising O'Neill's exclusive TechnoButter 3 and TB3X neoprene, this wetsuit offers a lightweight feel with minimal water absorption, enhancing performance during extended sessions. This suit is super flexible and makes maneuvering effortless, making it the perfect surfing wetsuit.

Pros: Super soft TechnoButter neoprene, incredible stretch
Cons: Limited insulation for cooler days
Best for: Warm water conditions

O’Neill Hyperfreak 3/2mm + Chest Zip Wetsuit

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 3/2mm
Wetsuit

 
The Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 3/2mm Chest Zip Wetsuit combines high-end features with affordability, making it ideal for surfers seeking performance and durability in warmer waters. 
 
Constructed with E5 neoprene and E5 Flash Lining, it offers excellent insulation and flexibility. The E4 Thermo Lining adds warmth, while the chest zip entry ensures a secure fit.

Pros: Good value, flexible E5 neoprene, internal Flash lining
Cons: Not as stretchy as premium suits
Best for: Warm water conditions

Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 3/2mm Wetsuit

Patagonia R1 Yulex Regulator Wetsuit

 
The Patagonia R1 Yulex Regulator Wetsuit for men and women is a high-performance, eco-friendly wetsuit designed for surfers who prioritise sustainability without compromising on warmth and flexibility.
 
This Patagonia wetsuit has been crafted from 85% Yulex natural rubber and 15% synthetic rubber. This neoprene-free suit offers a responsible alternative to traditional wetsuits, reducing CO₂ emissions by up to 80% during production.

Pros: Eco-friendly Yulex rubber, fair trade certified
Cons: Slightly less flexible than petroleum-based neoprene
Best for: Eco-conscious surfers in warmer temps

Patagonia R1 Yulex Regulator Wetsuit


Wetsuit Buying Guide for 2025

Whether you're paddling out for your first wave or upgrading your winter gear, choosing the right wetsuit is key to comfort, warmth, and performance in the water. In 2025, wetsuit technology continues to evolve, offering more eco-conscious materials, better thermal linings, and improved flexibility across all price points. 

This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from thickness and seam construction to fit and entry systems—so you can find the perfect wetsuit for your needs, wherever and whenever you surf.

How to Choose the Right Thickness

When it comes to staying warm and comfortable in the water, wetsuit thickness matters. The right thickness keeps your body insulated without restricting movement, helping you surf longer and more comfortably in changing conditions. 

Whether you're braving icy winter waves or chasing summer swells, understanding how wetsuit thickness works is essential. We are going to show you how to match your suit to the water temperature, and what to consider for your surf style and climate.

Wetsuit water temperature guide

How Wetsuit Thickness Works

Wetsuit thickness is usually expressed in two or three numbers, like 5/4mm or 3/2mm. These numbers refer to the thickness of the neoprene in millimetres, and they correspond to different parts of the wetsuit:
 
First number = Thickness around the torso/core (where warmth matters most)
Second number = Thickness in the arms and legs (for mobility)
Third number (if shown) = Sometimes refers to different limb thickness (e.g., legs vs. arms)
 
Example:
A 5/4mm wetsuit has 5mm neoprene in the core, and 4mm in the arms and/or legs. Making it superior in warmth while still leaving room for you to move easily in the legs and arms.

A 3/2mm wetsuit has 3mm in the torso, 2mm in the arms and legs—ideal for milder conditions.

 

Consider Your Surf Style and Climate

Where You Surf: Know your local water temps across seasons—coastal and upwelling regions can surprise you.

Your Cold Tolerance: Some surfers run colder than others—if you get chilly easily, size up in thickness.

Activity Level: If you're paddling a lot or surfing short sessions, thinner suits may offer better comfort.

Travel Plans: Consider a versatile suit (like a 3/2mm or 4/3mm) if you surf a range of locations.

3/2mm: Spring/Summer (14°C+)

4/3mm: Autumn/Cool Summer

5/4mm: Winter (5–12°C)

How to Match Wetsuit Thickness to Water Temperature

Choosing the right wetsuit thickness is all about balancing warmth and flexibility, so you can stay in the water longer, no matter the season. Here we have provided you with a rough guide for choosing the right thickness.

 

If you need a more detailed breakdown and guidance, please take a look at our previous blog post. The Ultimate Guide - Which Wetsuit Thickness Should I Choose blog discusses in detail how to go about picking the perfect wetsuit for your local break. 

Water Temp (°C)Wetsuit ThicknessSuggested Use
21°C+ 1–2mm or spring suitWarm water, summer conditions
17–21°C 3/2mm wetsuitsMild climates, spring/autumn
12–17°C 4/3mm or 5/4mmCool conditions, shoulder seasons
8–12°C 5/4mm or 5/4/3mmCold water, winter surf
Below 8°C6/5mm+ w/ hoodVery cold water, full winter kit

How to Pick the Best Entry System

The way you get into your wetsuit might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in warmth, comfort, and ease of use. From classic back zips to modern chest zips and zip-free designs, each entry system has its pros and cons depending on your surf style, flexibility needs, and how cold the water gets.

The option you go for simply comes down to personal preference, so we have compiled all the pros and cons from the back zip, chest zip and zip-free systems that we think will assist you in making the best choice for you.

Chest Zip:

The zipper runs across the chest and usually opens from one shoulder, offering a snug fit and better water seal.

Pros:
• Better warmth and water resistance
• More flexible around the back and shoulders
• Offers a performance-focused fit
Cons:
• It can be trickier to get in and out of
• May require some practice
 

Back Zip:

The back zip is the traditional style, with a long zipper running down the back and a pull cord for easy entry and exit. The back zip wetsuit is an ideal wetsuit for kids and those learning to surf. The back zip makes for easy entry and exit and a hassle-free experience.
 
Pros:
• Back zips are the easiest to get on and off
• Great for beginners
• Back zips are often more affordable
Cons:
• A back zip entry system can let more water in
• The back zip has slightly reduced flexibility in the back panel
 

Zipperless:

No zippers at all—uses stretchy neoprene and a snug design to seal you in.
 
Pros:
• Maximum flexibility and comfort
• No zipper = fewer leak points
• Lightweight feel
Cons:
• Hardest to put on and take off
• Less structured, which can affect fit and warmth in rougher conditions
 
 
front zip wetsuit

Chest zip

back zip wetsuit

Back zip

How to Prioritise Fit and Flexibility

A good wetsuit should feel like a second skin—snug but not restrictive, warm yet stretchy enough to paddle and pop up with ease- the perfect fit. Fit and flexibility play a huge role in how comfortable (and warm) you’ll be in the water.

Start with fit: Your wetsuit should hug your body closely without any loose areas, especially around the lower back, neck, and armpits. The main downside when it's the incorrect fit is that the gaps let cold water flush in, reducing warmth and increasing chill factor. At the same time, it shouldn’t be so tight that it restricts movement or cuts off circulation.

Then consider flexibility: Higher-end suits often use premium neoprene that stretches more, particularly in key areas like the shoulders, arms, and knees. If you’re surfing regularly or doing longer sessions, it’s worth investing in a suit that gives you a full range of motion.

Tip:
Always try the suit on (or check size guides carefully) and move around—stretch, paddle, squat. The better it moves with you, the better your session will feel.

 

Final Thoughts

Whether you're heading out for icy dawn patrols or warm-water weekenders, there’s a wetsuit here to match your conditions and style, and they come at a great price. These wetsuits have been voted the best for surfing in 2025, balancing warmth, comfort, and flexibility to keep you stoked in the line-up all year round. Make sure to check out our page on Wetsuit Advice for links to some of our best wetsuit tips!


We guarantee this Guide showcases the best of the best and provides everything you need for your favourite surf spot. Here at the Wetsuit Centre, your choice is endless, and always remember that we are just a phone call away for any surfing and wetsuit-related queries!

Wetsuits Advice at the Wetsuit Centre