Interested in staying warm? Look no further. Kelin Victoria//The Inertia

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In a male-dominated sport such as surfing, it can be difficult to find gear specifically tailored to women. Luckily, the women’s surf industry has grown tremendously in the past decade. And after a lot of testing, it’s safe to say that the current state of women’s wetsuits is impressive. All the suits included in this review are suits we’d feel comfortable recommending to a friend or family member for their cool and cold-water adventures.

Our lead tester has been surfing for more than two decades, and as a team, we continue to research the latest and greatest in women’s wetsuit trends and technologies to keep this article as current as possible. Over the past couple of years, we’ve tested more than 20 of the top women’s wetsuits on the market to bring you the best of the best.

Navigate To: Comparison Table | Buyer’s Guide | Best Men’s Wetsuits 

The Best Women’s Wetsuits of 2024

Best Overall Women’s Wetsuit: Xcel Comp
Most Comfortable Women’s Wetsuit: O’Neill Hyperfreak
Best Value Women’s Wetsuit: Roxy Syncro
Best Sustainable Women’s Wetsuit: Patagonia Regulator
Best Stretch: Feral 3mm2
Best Lining: Rip Curl E7 Flashbomb HeatSeeker

Best Overall Wetsuit

Xcel Comp Full Wetsuit ($299)

Available In: 3/2mm, 4/3mm, 4.5/3.5mm hooded (Comp X)

Pros: Super comfortable and stretchy
Cons: Neck is a little stiff at first

Sustainability: Oyster shells, eco carbon black, and other recycled materials used in production, Xcel is committed to being neoprene-free by 2026
Features: 100% ultra-stretch exterior, critically taped seams

The Xcel Comp is one of the most comfortable and stretchiest 4/3 wetsuits we have ever surfed in. The lightest, stretchiest, and most comfortable wetsuit on offer from Xcel, the suit features a 100% ultra-stretch exterior, Thermolite IR core, and critically taped seams. The neck is a little hard to get on at first, but once it’s on the suit is super comfy, and it stretches out and gets easier with time. The comfort of this suit is not to be understated, with a soft interior lining, and super stretchy neoprene that easily fits a variety of body shapes and sizes. Keep in mind that this is more of a performance suit rather than an ultra-warm steamer, for that check out the Xcel Drylock, or for something in the middle, try the Comp X.

When we’re in the market for a performance style 4/3, we usually expect to pay somewhere in the ballpark of $400. Billabong, Rip Curl, and Patagonia all have impressive performance suits, but all run upwards of $400. At $300, the Xcel Comp 4/3 feels like a steal. It offers the same warmth, comfort, and flexibility as suits from other brands at a much-reduced cost, with solid durability to boot.

If you’re willing to shell out a couple hundred extra, the Patagonia R3 (4.5mm/3.5mm) is another top-tier wetsuit that is even gentler on the environment, using natural Yulex rubber, the gold standard for wetsuit sustainability, rather than a mix of limestone neoprene and other materials. The R3 takes longer to break in than the Comp and isn’t as flexible, but it’s more durable and slightly warmer. Read our full review of the Xcel Comp here.

Best Fit/Comfort

O’Neill Hyperfreak Chest Zip ($370)

Available In: 5.5/4mm hooded, 4/3 (Hyperfreak Fire), 3/2

Pros: Technobutter material is light and flexible, no break-in
Cons:  A little wear on the elbows over time

Sustainability: N/A
Features: TechnoButter 3 fully taped seams, lightweight quality construction, and a key pocket on the calf

We’ve all spent a session or two shivering in our wetsuit – it’s not fun. Luckily, the O’Neill Hyperfreak puts an end to chilly surfs. The body and legs of the suit are made from Technobutter 3, their exclusive, maximum stretch, water-resistant neoprene. The arms and shoulders are constructed from Technobutter 3X, O’Neill’s pre-stretched neoprene which is the lightest, most flexible, and softest material they have on offer. Additionally, the chest entry features a floating zipper panel and flush barrier with drain holes. The result is a warm, comfortable suit with style points to boot.

Although the suit we tested is a 4/3, the comfort and stretch are comparable to a 3/2, without sacrificing warmth. We love how soft and comfy this suit feels and the head opening for the chest zip doesn’t feel like it strangles you when you put it on (a big plus in our book). This suit was comfortable right off the bat and didn’t have a break-in period like most suits, thanks to its pre-stretched neoprene.

The Hyperfreak is an all-around great suit, but it finished behind the Xcel Comp because of the awesome value the Comp provides. In terms of stretch and comfort the suits are comparable, but the Hyperfreak is more comfortable from the get-go, especially in the neck region. Of note, the Women’s Hyperfreak 4/3 seems to be discontinued, being replaced by the Hyperfreak Fire, a wetsuit with an upgraded lining. The 3/2 and other thicknesses appear to be unchanged.

Best Value Wetsuit

Roxy Syncro ($200)

Available In: 3/2mm, 4/3mm, 5/4/3mm hooded

Pros: Thermal smoothie on the chest, affordable
Cons: Runs small, not as durable as some other options

Sustainability: Limestone-derived neoprene, recycled lining
Features: StretchFlight 2 neoprene, thermal smoothie panels, GBS seams

When it comes to wetsuits, Roxy knows how to make them the way women want them. While other companies offer women’s suits, they are often spinoffs of their men’s designs and include a little too much room in the wrong places, and not enough room in others, if you know what we mean.

Made from limestone-derived neoprene, the Syncro has all the features you’d expect in a solid wetsuit: thermal lining on the chest, triple glued and blind stitched (GBS) seams, a chest entry system, strong kneepads, and an internal chest key loop. The suit also features a thermal smoothie on the chest to keep you protected on windy days. The suit sports recycled polyester and nylon linings that make for both an eco-friendly and comfortable suit. The combination of features results in a suit that fits well, is moderately stretchy, and overall is quite comfortable.

Although the suit is black, it features a subtle pattern on the sleeves, which gives it a little added flair. The suit is available at an affordable price while offering the technical features that comprise a good suit. This suit runs a little small, so we would recommend ordering one size up from your usual size for that perfect fit. If you prefer a brighter, bolder suit, the Roxy x Rowley Chest Zip Wetsuit is another great suit from Roxy but in no way is it subtle. The Roxy x Rowley runs true to size and is also made from recycled materials, resulting in a stretchy and all-around comfortable suit.

Best Sustainable Wetsuit

Patagonia R2 Full Wetsuit ($509)

Available In: R1 (3mm/2.5mm), R2 (3.5mm/3mm), R3 (4.5mm/3.5mm), R4 (5.5mm/4mm)

Pros: Incredibly warm, flexible
Cons: Pricey

Sustainability: The best of the best. Yulex rubber, recycled lining, fair trade, and sustainable manufacturing
Features: Yulex 85% natural rubber, internal key loop, Fair Trade Certified

We love everything Patagonia makes but when they first came out with their neoprene-free Yulex wetsuit a few years back, we weren’t huge fans. We desperately wanted to love the suit because of its sustainable properties, but it was super stiff and uncomfortable and unfortunately wasn’t a winner. We were a little skeptical to give their suits another try but the first suit was either a fluke or they’ve made some serious upgrades because this time around, we tested their R2 (3.5/3mm) and loved it.

Fair Trade certified, the suit is made from 85% Yulex natural rubber that is FSC certified by the Rainforest Alliance and 15% synthetic rubber. Additional features include a front-zip entry with a key loop, flexible yet durable kneepads and cuffs, a warm thermal lining made from recycled materials, and all the external seems are 100% sealed.

The chest zip can be a bit of a challenge to line up as both ends are detached but once you’re in, you’re good. Although the suit is only available in solid black, it is function at its finest. The R2 (3.5/3mm) is a bit thinner than your classic 4/3 at 3.5/3mm but is incredibly warm. You’ll have a hard time distinguishing it from a 4/3. It’s incredibly flexible out of the gates and feels comparable to traditional neoprene (if not better). Patagonia was a little tight-lipped about the specific improvements they made to this suit over the previous edition, but we were blown away by the comfort and warmth. Like all things Patagonia, we trust that this suit is well-made and will withstand the test of time.

If you can’t justify spending upwards of $500 on a wetsuit, the Xcel Comp is another sustainably made wetsuit that’s about half the price. The Comp isn’t quite as durable or warm as the Patagonia Full Wetsuit, but it has no break-in period and it is stretchier and more comfortable.

Read our full review of the new Patagonia R2 here. For colder waters check out the R3 (4.5/3.5mm) and R4 (5.5/4mm).

Best Stretch

Feral 3mm2 ($415)

Available In: 5/4mm, 4/3mm, 3/2mm

Pros: Super stretchy, inner wrist and ankle seals
Cons: Material is a little thin, runs a bit small

Sustainability: 100% Yamamoto neoprene
Features: Inner wrist and ankle seal silicone tape, external thigh key pocket, & strategic seam design

Feral is a brand that wasn’t on our radar until recently and after taking this suit out for a test run, we’re stoked to have discovered this brand. Based out of the Bay Area in California, the Feral team are no strangers to cold waters, and it shows in their wetsuit design.

When our Feral suit arrived in the mail, we couldn’t believe how soft and stretchy the material felt. From our experience with Yamato neoprene, it doesn’t always have the most give, so we were anxious to get the suit in the water and see if it was worth its salt. It is. Made from 100% Yamamoto Japanese rubber, the suit features stretchier neoprene in the neck, shoulders, and arms and lightweight rubber in the body and legs. Additionally, the suit has a smooth, low water-absorption jersey, strategic seam design, critical seam taping, inner wrist and ankle seal silicone tape, PK waterproof zipper with stainless steel pull, and an external thigh key pocket.

When comparing the Feral suit to other suits made from Yamato neoprene like the Patagonia R2 wetsuit, the Feral is significantly more comfortable and stretchy. It’s not quite as durable but it is about $100 cheaper.

Warm and comfortable, with all the bells and whistles, this suit exceeded our expectations. The comfort was next level, and we loved the inner wrist and ankle seals—it reminded us of a dry suit but without the suction cup discomfort. The neoprene feels thinner than other 3/2s we’ve tried so we worry about how it will fare over time, but it seems well made and we have only heard good things, so we’re hopeful. If you prefer a looser fit, consider ordering a size up, but for the most part, sizing is pretty spot on.

Best Lining

Rip Curl E7 Flashbomb HeatSeeker ($519)

Available In: 6/4mm hooded (E6), 5/4mm hooded (E6), 4/3mm, 3/2mm

Pros: E7 Flash Lining provides the perfect blend of warmth, stretch, and comfort
Cons: No-zip entry is difficult to get on

Sustainability: Wetsuit recycling program
Features: E7 Flash-Lining, Flex Energy, zip-free, & a single seam cut

Rip Curl has been regarded as one of the best in the wetsuit industry for years, and the Flashbomb is the best suit they offer. It had been years since our tester had worn a Rip Curl suit, so she was excited to give this one a try.

The first difference we noticed from a previously owned Rip Curl wetsuit (circa 2013) was that the E7 Flash-Lining was a lot less fuzzy than the original models. The fuzziness was never something we loved, and the new model proved to be more comfortable and offered more stretch than its predecessors.

Zip-free wetsuits have been trending lately and personally, we think it seems like a weird upgrade, but we were interested in trying it out. We suspected a zip-free wetsuit would be more difficult to put on and were proven wrong until we got to the head portion. Getting the body into the suit was easy, but getting the neck section over the head was challenging to get both on and off. With time, it got a little easier but was still far more difficult than other suits we’ve owned. It’s kind of a double-edged sword because we know the challenge of putting it on is also what allows it to have a tighter seal and therefore be warmer.

If the hassle of a zip free wetsuit isn’t worth it to you, the O’Neill Hyperfreak suit sports a traditional, zippered chest zip and is much easier to get on and off. The Hyperfreak lacks the flash lining and you experience some flushing around the neck when duck diving, so it’s not quite as warm as the HeatSeeker, but it is a bit more mobile, resulting in better performance.

Aside from the challenge of getting the suit on, we loved everything about it. As we mentioned, the updated E7 Flash-Lining is incredible and provides the perfect blend of warmth, stretch, and comfort. The suit also features “Flex Energy,” which is a lining on the back and shoulders that generates heat as you move through the water. Although we couldn’t pinpoint the activation during our session, we can vouch for the incredible warmth of the suit. This suit sports a single seam cut, meaning no seams cutting into you in weird places and a little added stretch. The quality of the suit is exceptional and based on past suits we’ve owned from Rip Curl, we have no doubt it will withstand the test of time.

The E7 neoprene is currently only available in 4/3mm and 3/2mm wetsuits. For colder waters, the E6 neoprene used in Rip’s 5/4mm and 6/4mm wetsuits also delivers.

Best of the Rest

Finisterre Nieuwland 5s Yulex Wetsuit ($545)

Available In: 3.5/2.5, 4.5/3.5, 5.5/4.5 Hooded

Pros: Ankle loops, incredibly warm, built-in hood
Cons: Difficult to get on/off, no small sizes

Sustainability: 85% Yulex natural rubber, recycled polyester fabric
Features: Ankle loops, tight seal around wrists/ankles

Finisterre is a brand you may have never heard of but one you’ll want to put on your radar. In addition to clothes and swimwear, the brand offers a collection of eco-friendly Yulex wetsuits designed for all weather conditions. Our tester got her hands on the Nieuwland 5s for a wintertime trip to New York.

Like many 5/4 wetsuits, the Nieuwland was challenging to get on, but once in the water it stretched out a bit and got more comfortable. And like many suits, the Nieuwland continued to stretch out and get more comfortable with each wear. A standout feature is the ankle loops. They’re little loops on the exterior of the suit and they’re a game changer for assisting in getting the suit on.

The eco-friendly suit is made from a blend of 85% Yulex natural rubber and 15% synthetic rubber by polymer content. It isn’t the stretchiest suit in the world but it’s stretchy enough to allow for a full range of motion in the arms and legs. It also features double-blind stitching and taped seams throughout which ensure the suit is warm and durable. In addition, the Nieuwland is extra tight around the wrists to help keep water out, which in turn keeps you warmer. The only downside of this is that it makes the suit more challenging to get off.

Also made from 85% Yulex rubber, the Patagonia R4 is the only other suit on our list that’s as warm as the Nieuwland. Like the Niueuwland, the R4 is stiff at first and can be challenging to put on and take off. Unlike the Nieuwland, the R4 doesn’t get tighter at the wrists and ankles, so it’s slightly easier to put on and we didn’t notice any extra flushing.

The Nieuwland sports a built-in hood with a bill, which saved our tester during an extra chilly session that involved wind, rain, and hail. Sizing is European, so be sure and check the size chart in order to guarantee you order the correct size. For reference, our tester is 5’7″, 125 and typically wears a size six but ordered an eight per the size chart and it fit perfectly. The Nieuwland is slightly thicker than your traditional 5/4 and as a result, was an incredibly warm wetsuit. Read our full review of the Finisterre Nieuwland here.

Hurley Plus Printed Fullsuit ($380)

Available In: 4/3mm

Pros: Stretchy material, fun print
Cons: Neck portion is difficult to get on

Sustainability: Eco carbon black recycled from old tires, limestone-based neoprene, dope-dyed yarns
Features: 100% taped seams, Superstretch Neospan exterior material, key pocket

The Hurley Plus Printed Fullsuit is one of the most comfortable wetsuits our tester has ever worn. The suit is made from limestone-based neoprene, and we found the construction to be very stretchy and comfortable. The Printed Fullsuit sports a chest zip entry. The neck portion is difficult to get over your head until it stretches out. However, once the wetsuit is on and everything is zipped up, it’s comfortable and incredibly flexible.

The Hurley Plus has a similar design and fit as the Xcel Comp. The neck on the Comp is also challenging to get on at first but it’s a little more stretchy than the Printed Fullsuit. The Comp is a solid suit albeit in a nice color whereas the Printed Fullsuit is traditional black but with a fun pattern on the arms and sides.

The Printed Fullsuit has taped seams that help keep the water out and the warmth in. Strategically placed seams combined with a stretchy exterior material allow for a full range of motion. The neck seal helps water from seeping in and the lightweight knee pads offer a degree of protection against rocks or knee paddling a longboard. We felt cozy and warm in this suit during testing sessions in Southern California.

As the name suggests, the Printed Fullsuit sports a fun print throughout that reminds of us a whale shark. Cute and comfortable, the Printed Fullsuit is a winner. Read our full review here.

Roxy X Rowley Chest Zip Wetsuit ($400)

Available In: 3/2mm

Pros: Mock neck, easy entry/exit, no break in period, fun print
Cons: Print may be excessive for some tastes

Sustainability: Recycled polyester elastane blend fabric
Features: Mock neck, GBS seams

The Roxy x Rowley Chest Zip Wetsuit is a head-turner. To create this wetsuit, Roxy partnered with fashion designer Cynthia Rowley. The wetsuit features a floral pattern throughout that may be too much for some, but the perfect amount of flair for others.

Aside from its print, the Roxy x Rowley wetsuit has everything you’d want in a good wetsuit. Made from a recycled polyester elastane blend fabric, the wetsuit features a warm thermal lining made from a blend of recycled polyester and nylon. The mock neck hits a little higher than most wetsuits, offering added sun protection as well as extra warmth.

The chest zip entry was surprisingly easy to get the suit on and off, and our tester was impressed with how comfortable the wetsuit was right out of the gates. She received numerous comments and compliments in the lineup and the Roxy x Rowley wetsuit proved to be more than just a looker. The suit is stretchy and comfortable, making it a great choice for water temps in the 60s. Read our full review here.

If the Roxy x Rowley print is too bold for your taste, the Syncro is much more subtle but equally as comfortable and high-performance. However, it’s worth noting that the Syncro runs small and isn’t as durable of a suit. But it’s also more affordable.

Billabong Furnace Comp ($419)

Available In: 3/2mm, 4/3mm

Pros: Stylish, comfortable
Cons: A little roomy in the crotch area

Sustainability: SMART foam partially recycled neoprene
Features: AIRLITE 4D exterior fabric, chest key ring, and super-flex taped seams

Amongst the girls, we’re constantly talking about how Billabong has the cutest suits in the game. But for a while, the sizing was a little off, so we steered clear of them — but after trying the Salty Dayz 3/2 a couple of years ago, it seems like they’ve got their sizing dialed in. And they’ve dialed it even further with the Furnace Comp. The suit still had a little extra room in the crotch area, but overall, it fit well.

In an effort to be eco-friendly, the Furnace Comp is made from Billabong’s SMART foam, which features 30% recycled materials. The result is a wetsuit that is very soft, super stretchy, and quite comfortable. According to Billabong, the exterior material is called AIRLITE 4D and provides 20% more stretch, which seems pretty spot on. The interior fabric is Billabong’s Graphene interior, and we are honestly shocked at how soft and comfy this suit is and the amount of flex it provides while paddling.

Additionally, the suit features a chest zip entry, Super-flex taped seams, durable kneepads, and a place to stash your key. To top it off, the suit has a fun lower leg pattern that adds a little extra shazam. If the fit is a little too funky for you, the Roxy x Rowley Chest Zip Wetsuit has an all-around great fit but the print is much brighter and bolder.

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Billabong Salty Dayz ($290)

Available In: 4/3mm

Pros: Fun pattern
Cons: Feels snug at first

Sustainability: 100% recycled exterior fabric, partially recycled neoprene SMART foam
Features: Non-toxic, water-based glues, silicon stretch internal jersey, GBS

Billabong has a wide selection for women and their clothes and gear are consistently one of the cutest brands for women. We’ve always been a fan of the look of their wetsuits, but for a while, the sizing/fit was a bit off. Luckily, they’ve got that figured out. We had the luxury of testing out both the Salty Dayz 3/2 and 4/3 in recent years and we’re a fan of both.

In an effort to be eco-friendly, the Salty Dayz exterior jersey is made from recycled materials—upcycled car tires and neoprene scraps are combined for the foam layer. The suit is lined with Graphene Recycler. Additionally, it features a chest zip entry, glued and sealed exterior seams, durable kneepads, and a place to stash your key. To top it off, the suit features a fun pattern on the chest and sleeves without being overbearing.

The suit is mainly black with a subtle floral pattern on the arms and chest, giving it a fun, feminine flair. Like most 4/3 suits, the Salty Dayz feels a little snug at first, but once you take it out for its maiden voyage the stretch becomes notable and overall, it’s a comfortable suit that fits well.

The Salty Dayz fits better in the crotch area in particular than the Furnace Comp and is more affordable. But, the Furnace Comp is comfortable out of the gates whereas the the Salty Dayz suit takes some time to break in and reach the same level of comfort.

Picture Organic Equation ($350)

Available In: 3/2mm, 4/3mm

Pros: Comfort zones to protect ribs
Cons: Not the warmest suit

Sustainability: Made using Eicoprene technology, a non-petroleum synthetic foam derived from a mix of oyster shell powder, limestone, and recycled tires
Features: 3D-Knit construction, WPF lining, & comfort zones to protect ribs while paddling

Picture is one of the newer players when it comes to surf gear and wetsuits, but they’re already doing an impressive job making sustainable suits. Their wetsuits are made using the latest Eicoprene technology, which is a non-petroleum-based synthetic foam that’s derived from oyster shell powder, limestone, and recycled tires. The recycled polyester lining is laminated with Aqua-A, a solvent-free water-based glue that contains zero harmful chemicals. The suits are Bluesign-approved and meet the Global Recycled Standard.

All of Picture’s eco-initiatives sound good on paper, but they’re not worth much if the suit doesn’t perform. We were leery that it wouldn’t be up to par with the other suits, but it’s safe to say that the Equation is a solid suit.

This suit features everything we’re looking for in a solid 4/3: fully taped seams, glued and blind stitched constructions (GBS), knee pads, a key pocket, and watertight seals. The watertight seals combined with the 3D-Knit construction and WPF lining result in a suit that is nice and toasty. It’s not the warmest suit on this list, but it does the job. It also has comfort zones to protect the ribs while paddling, which is something we haven’t seen in a suit before but really liked. The construction seems solid, and this is a suit we see being a part of our surf essentials for years to come.

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Kassia + Surf La Luna ($380)

Available In: 5/4mm Hooded, 5/4mm, 4/3mm, 3/2mm

Pros: Smoothie/jersey combo, back zip entry
Cons: Double neck flap enclosure takes some getting used to

Sustainability: Recycled thermal heat lining, Earth First Construction Elements
Features: Smoothie V over chest/back, key stash pocket on left arm

From the mind of professional surfer, Kassia Meador, the La Luna wetsuit is designed with warmth and comfort in mind. The 3/2 and 4/3 mm suits feature a smoothie/jersey combination that offers maximum warmth and comfort.

Unlike other, older models of Kassia + Surf wetsuits, the La Luna is comfortable out of the gates. The double-neck flap enclosure took a little getting used to in terms of comfort, but we appreciate that it works to prevent cold water from entering through the neck. This suit also sports a back zip, which is rare these days and is something that we’re actually a big fan of because it makes it easier to get in and out of.

In a lot of ways the La Luna is the polar opposite of Flashbomb but has similar goals. The Flasmbomb utilizes zipper-free technology to prevent water from entering the suit, especially at the neck, whereas the La Luna uses the double neck. The Flashbomb is more comfortable in the neck region once it’s on, but it’s much more of a battle to get it on and off.

Created with the environment in mind, the suit sports a recycled thermal lining on the torso for added warmth. Additionally, Earth First Construction elements are woven through the suit to conserve energy, save water, and keep harmful chemicals from entering the ocean. Other thoughtful features include fabric kneepads, a smoothie V over the chest and back, and a key stash pocket on the left arm.

Hurley Advantage Plus ($355)

Available In: 4/3mm, 3/2mm

Pros: Super stretchy, seams strategically placed
Cons: Difficult to get on

Sustainability: Limestone-based neoprene, dope-dyed yarns, carbon black recycled from old tires
Features: Key pocket in chest panel, 100% taped seams, Xtend 2.0 interior lining

Out of the box, this suit looks great. It’s soft to the touch and looks superhero sporty, with a cute flash of pink on the sleeve. But, when our tester went to try it on, she wasn’t so sure.

Like many suits, the Advantage Plus sports a chest zip entry, and in order to get it fully zipped up you must pull the neck portion over your head. While we never particularly enjoy this part of getting suited up, this one is especially hard to put on. It took a couple of tries and a little assistance to get on but once it was on, it was comfy and didn’t feel like it was choking out our tester. She thought maybe she needed a bigger size, but the suit fit perfectly once she got it on. With each time our tester took on/off the suit it got a little easier, but it was still much more difficult than other suits which made it lose a few points.

If you want an almost identical suit that’s easier to get on and off, the Hurley Plus Printed Fullsuit also is a little tricky in the neck area but significantly easier. It also sports a fun print and the material feels stretchy and flexible while paddling.

Once the suit was on, it was fantastic. It fit like a glove, the interior lining was super soft, and it had plenty of flex. Designed with movement in mind, the suit features a new Superstretch Neospan exterior material for added stretch, and the seams are strategically placed out of the way so you can move freely. Other thoughtful features include a key pocket in the interior chest panel, 100% taped seams, an insulated interior, a smoothskin neck to seal out water, and lightweight kneepads. This is a high-performance suit designed with serious athletes in mind.

Ho Stevie! Women’s Surfing Wetsuit ($275)

Available In: 4/3mm, 3/2mm

Pros: Super stretchy and comfortable
Cons: Runs small

Sustainability: Limestone-based neoprene
Features: GBS

Ho Stevie! has been on our radar for a while as an affordable option for board bags and car racks. But recently, they added wetsuits to their list of offerings. We have to admit, we were a bit skeptical at first but after wearing the suit for a couple of sessions, it’s safe to say we’re impressed.

Made from a limestone-based neoprene, the Ho Stevie! Women’s Wetsuit is sustainably made but is also incredibly comfortable. The material feels extra stretchy, making the suit easy to take on and off and comfortable to wear in the water. The suit features GBS seams and flatlock stitching. Ho Stevie! offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you’re not stoked, you can simply return it.

Additionally, the suit sports a YKK chest zipper with a built-in key loop. One important thing to note is that sizing is funky. Our lead tester typically wears a size 6 wetsuit but found that a size 10 was the best fit. So unless you want your suit super tight, you’ll definitely want to size up. We’d definitely recommend ordering on Amazon or somewhere where returns are easy since the sizing is so off.

The Ho Stevie! wetsuit’s stretch is similar to the Feral wetsuit. The Feral suit’s sizing is accurate and the suit is more well-made and durable than the Ho Stevie! suit. However, its superior construction comes at a cost, ringing in over $100 more.

Best Women’s Wetsuits Comparison Table

Nothing is more comfortable or stretches better than O’Neill Technobutter. Photo: Jody Marcon//The Inertia

How We Tested The Best Women’s Wetsuits

Born and raised in Orange County, California, with a short stint in Santa Cruz for college, our lead tester has worn her fair share of wetsuits over the years. And one thing she’s learned through her experience is that not all wetsuits are created equally. Some are ultra-warm. Some are comfortable. Others are not. Some withstand the test of time. Some are stylish. You get the picture. With wetsuit technology ever-evolving, we decided it was time to set out to find the current best wetsuit on the market.

Obviously, everyone is entitled to her own opinion and the perfect wetsuit is going to vary from person to person. We tried to consider factors that most people are looking for in a wetsuit. Warmth. Stretch/comfort. Durability. Style. Materials. Special features. Anything that may contribute to the suit raising the bar for wetsuits.

We reached out to the top wetsuit manufacturers in the business and asked them to send us their best wetsuits. If you’re wondering if this is a pay-to-play type of guide, it’s not. No company paid to be included in this guide and each review is simply based on our experiences with the suit.

In order to test each suit, you guessed it, we surfed. Not only did we surf, but we jumped in unheated pools, wore them scuba diving, and shoved ourselves in and out of them multiple times (because a huge factor of a good suit is how easy it is to take on/off).

We first published this review in December of 2021. In June of 2023, we did some housekeeping and dropped some of the suits that we didn’t love or were no longer available. Over the summer, we had the opportunity to try out the newly launched Patagonia R2 Regulator, which we added to the review. The majority of our testing was done in California, with some additional testing done in Hawaii on scuba diving trips. One suit was even tested in New York during the wintertime.

Since its original publication, a number of the suits we tested have gone out of stock or have limited quantity as the brands drop their latest wetsuits. We are working on acquiring and testing the newest suits from each brand and will update this review as we get in the water with them to continue to offer you the latest and greatest in women’s wetsuits. We most recently updated this review in October of 2024, adding more comparison info to help you decide between all these great options.

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Some of the best wetsuits in the industry. Photo: Rebecca Parsons//The Inertia

Best Women’s Wetsuits Ratings Table

How Did We Calculate Ratings for Best Wetsuits?

When considering what makes a good wetsuit, the main factors we considered were warmth, stretch/comfort, and durability. We also considered sustainability and style as well. Each suit received a score out of 10 for each category, which we then averaged to reach the overall score. Since durability is more difficult to determine after only a couple of months of testing, that score was weighted less than warmth and stretch/comfort.

Here’s the breakdown. Warmth: 40, Stretch: 40, Durability: 20. In addition to the big three, we also noted whether or not it was sustainably made and any noteworthy or standout features. Keep reading for a more detailed breakdown of these criteria, sustainability, and other things that we consider important when buying a wetsuit.

Testing wetsuits at San Onofre. Photo: Jody Marcon//The Inertia

Women’s Wetsuits Buyer’s Guide

Wetsuit Fit

Fit is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a wetsuit. If you’re buying in person, we highly suggest hopping in a dressing room and trying on the suit. Yes, it’s a pain, but it’s worth it for a good fit. No matter how incredible the suit is, if it doesn’t fit you well it’s not going to get the job done.

In general, wetsuits should fit snuggly, but not so tight that your range of motion is limited. Think of it as your ‘second skin’ while surfing. The neoprene will loosen up in the water and will stretch a bit with time, so it should definitely feel tight when you first try it on.

All the suits we tested in this review are a size 6, which is our lead tester’s typical wetsuit size–she’s 5’7”, 125 lbs. with an athletic build. Her legs are a little on the long side, but in general, she’s proportional and size 6 tends to get the job done.

If you’re ordering online, reference the size charts and make sure the company has a solid return policy in case it’s not a good fit. If you find a winner, you might want to consider sticking with that brand down the road. For example, the Xcel Comp fit our tester like a glove whereas the Ho Stevie! Women’s Wetsuit ran small and our tester had to order two sizes up to find a good fit.

The Xcel Comp has everything we’re looking for in a women’s wetsuit. Photo: Jenna Miller//The Inertia

Wetsuit Entry Systems 

There are three main wetsuit zipper systems: chest zip, back zip, and zipless. Back zip wetsuits were the original wetsuit design and have a long, center zipper running up the length of the back. Back zip wetsuits like the Kassia + Surf La Luna are typically the easiest to put on but they aren’t as warm as the other two options because they let more water into the suit.

Chest zip or front zip wetsuits like the Xcel Comp are the most common type of wetsuits these days. They have a portion that you pull over the neck and then zip across the chest. Finally, zipless wetsuits like the Rip Curl E7 Heatseeker Flashbomb have a wider opening at the shoulders but no zippers. They can be more challenging to put on but you don’t have to worry about zippers digging in and they can be more flexible.

Warmth vs. Stretch

Warmth and stretch are a bit of opposing forces when it comes to wetsuits. The warmer the suit, the thicker and less stretchy it will be. In this review, we did our best to find suits that were best of both world options.

Some suits on this list, like the Finisterre Nieuwland 5s Yulex Hooded Wetsuit, did prioritize warmth and others, like the Feral 3mm2, prioritized stretch. Before purchasing a suit, it’s important to think about what type of surfer you are. If you tend to run cold and find it ruins your sessions, it could be worth sacrificing some stretch for added warmth.

Surf check in the sustainable Hurley Plus Printed Fullsuit. Photo: Sarah Parsons//The Inertia

Sustainable Wetsuits

For the longest time, eco-friendliness simply wasn’t an option when it came to wetsuits. That was until 2016 when Patagonia dropped their Yulex wetsuits, the world’s first and only wetsuits made from natural rubber. Since Patagonia launched its sustainable wetsuit, other companies have followed suit and gotten creative in coming up with sustainable alternatives for wetsuits. Sustainability is trending and the surf brands have taken note.

From an environmental standpoint, Yulex has the smallest impact on the environment, making it the best option for the planet and environmentalists, which is one of the reasons the Patagonia R2 Regulator was one of the most sustainable wetsuits we tested. After that, wetsuits produced from recycled materials like old tires, oyster shells, etc. are the next best option, and they’re usually mixed with limestone neoprene.

Limestone neoprene by itself is certainly better than traditional neoprene, which is derived from crude oil, but the process of creating limestone neoprene is energy-intensive, which makes it not that much better than traditional neoprene in terms of sustainability.

The 3/2 mm Roxy x Rowley Chest Zip Wetsuit has lots of sustainable features. Photo: Rebecca Parsons//The Inertia

As far as performance is concerned, limestone neoprene is probably the top performer, with suits made from recycled materials following closely behind. When it comes to sustainable options, Yulex is the worst performance-wise, but its technology continues to improve, and this year’s Patagonia suits have proven that Yulex has the potential to be as high-performing as the best traditional and limestone-neoprene wetsuits in the industry, giving us hope for the future of sustainable wetsuits.

Wetsuit Durability

Wetsuits are pricey, so you’ll want a suit that’s going to last you more than a season. Depending on how well you take care of it and how frequently you surf, a good suit like the Rip Curl E7 Heatseeker Flashbomb should last you at least a couple of years. However, a suit that is flexible and has a little more give may not last as long as a more rigid suit, so you’re dealing with a bit of a double-edged sword. From an environmental standpoint, the longer a suit lasts the better. Considering we tested these suits over the course of a few months, durability will be based on early impressions of the quality and how we foresee the suits lasting over time. As we continue to test these wetsuits, we’ll keep this article updated with any durability issues that arise.

Key pockets, often located in the front zip of the wetsuit, are a great extra feature. Photo: Kelin Victoria//The Inertia

What Other Factors Matter in a Wetsuit?

Warmth

There are a lot of factors to consider when buying a wetsuit. Warmth is one of the most important factors when selecting a suit. If it’s not going to keep you warm, then there’s no point. Obviously, the thickness of the suit is going to affect the warmth, so it’s important to know which is appropriate for your region. Consult a wetsuit thickness and temperature chart or chat with friends in your local lineup before selecting a suit. For example, the Roxy x Rowley Chest Zip Wetsuit is a great pick for Southern California, but if you’re venturing somewhere like Alaska, you’ll want a thick suit like the Finisterre Nieuwland 5s Yulex Hooded Wetsuit.

Style

It may sound silly, but we care what our suits look like. When we’re shelling out a few hundred bucks for a suit that we’ll be wearing multiple times a week for years, we want it to have a little flair. Plus, when we’re wearing a suit with a splash of color, we feel a little less like shark bait. Of all the suits we tested, the Roxy x Rowley Chest Zip Wetsuit is hands down the most stylish, but the print is pretty out there and might not be for everyone.

The Xcel Comp Wetsuit was the best overall suit that we tested. Photo: Rebecca Parsons//The Inertia

Key Pocket

When purchasing a wetsuit, we also consider whether it has a key pocket. Our personal preference is an external calf pocket, with a key loop inside for added security, like that on the Feral wetsuit. Internal key loops work well too but we have a slight fear that our key is going to twist sideways and stab us. Most internal key loops are located in the chest zip like the one on the Salty Dayz 4/3. We recognize that most cars these days use fobs and as such the need for a key pocket is becoming less and less necessary, but we still like having the option.

Zipper Design 

Another factor to consider when buying a wetsuit is the zipper design. Is it a back zip? A chest zip? Zip free? Back zips at this point are almost obsolete, but we still kind of like them for the ease of entry, which can be especially important if you have mobility problems. Chest zips seem to be the go-to these days.

Zip-free is a newer design, but we’re still on the fence about it because wetsuits are already difficult enough to put on, and zip-free suits definitely up the difficulty. That said, having no zippers to dig into your chest while paddling is a point in their favor, so pick your poison. The only zip-free wetsuit we tested was the Rip Curl E7 Heatseeker Flashbomb – it was more challenging to get on but was comfortable and minimal water was able to seep in thanks to the lack of zippers.

Some zippers require you to put two pieces together, some are already attached on one end, and some require a snap to seal. Lots to consider, but like most things, it ultimately comes down to comfort. Finally, seams and taping are other factors to consider.

Hoods

Although most wetsuits don’t include a hood, some of the colder models like 5/4s and 6/5s do include hoods. When you’re in sub-50-degree water, you’ll want a hood. When we were testing the Finisterre Nieuwland 5s Yulex Hooded Wetsuit at Rockaway Beach in the wintertime, the hood was essential. Options include wetsuits with built-in hoods, detachable hoods, and separate hoods. It really just comes down to personal preference.

The Patagonia R2 Regulator suit is one of the most eco-friendly suits on the market. Photo: Sarah Parsons//The Inertia

How Do I Take Care of my Wetsuit?

Taking good care of your wetsuit is essential to ensure it has as long of a life as possible. After each use, be sure and rinse your wetsuit with fresh water and hang it to dry. In addition to freshwater rinses, it can be helpful to rinse your suit with a wetsuit cleaner every few months to keep it smelling fresh and feeling good. And if a tear occurs, fix it before it gets bigger!

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How Long Should My Wetsuit Last?

Forever. Just kidding, we wish that were true. At a minimum, your wetsuit should last you a year. And that’s if you surf every single day. In general, wetsuits should last a couple of years before they thin out or get holey. We’ve had suits that have hit the four-to-five-year mark but those are the best of the best. Oftentimes, if it’s a thicker suit like a 4/3 or 5/4 mm suit, it’ll become our warmer water suit after a few years. Even though it’s lost some of its thickness, there’s usually still enough for it to serve the purpose of a 3/2. To help your wetsuit last as long as possible be sure and take good care of it: Wash it regularly, re-seal your wetsuit seams when they start to split, be careful when taking your wetsuit on/off, and avoid changing directly on asphalt.

What Thickness Wetsuit Should I Get?

Wetsuit thickness is dependent on a few things: Where you surf, what time of year you surf, and how hot/cold you run. In southern California, we tend to wear a 4/3 during the worst of winter and a 3/2 throughout shoulder season. When we venture north, we’ll either wear my 4/3 with booties and a hood or switch to my 5/4. Below is a general guide based on water temps.

The above is just a general guideline to abide by, there are plenty of other factors to consider when choosing the thickness of your suit. Thicker suits tend to be more work to paddle in, but they will also keep you warmer—you have to decide which is your priority. Wind and sun are also factors to consider. If it’s extra windy or not very sunny, it’ll make you feel colder, regardless of the water temp. Wetsuits that have a “smoothie” panel on the chest area can be helpful in blocking wind.

Wetsuits with a smoothie panel: the Roxy Syncro Plus. Photo: Jody Marcon//The Inertia

Another factor to consider is how active you are in the water. If you tend to do a lot of paddling with minimal downtime, then you may want to opt for a thinner suit as you’ll run warmer. If you’re on the other end of the spectrum and find yourself sitting around a lot between sets, then you could benefit from a thicker suit. Because we have multiple suits, we tend to check conditions before we head out and if it’s a bigger day that we know is going to require a lot of paddling to make it back out between sets, then we will typically pick my 3/2. If it’s a mellow 1-2 feet that will require minimal paddling, then you’ll usually find us reaching for a 4/3.

If you’ve made it through all 8,000 plus words of this article, then thanks for reading. Although opinions will vary from person to person, we hope this guide was helpful and will take some of the stress out of shopping for your next suit. We’ll do our best to update this article as suits go in and out of stock online and will add updates if we’re able to test additional suits or should any problems arise regarding durability. See you in the water.

Return to Top Picks | Return to Comparison Table

Editor’s Note: Water a little warm? Grab yourself one of The Women’s Best Springsuits. Just need a top? We’ve got The Best Women’s Wetsuit Jackets. Simply need some sun protection. The Best Surf Suits for Women will do the trick. Bikini weather? Check out The Best Women’s Swimsuits for Surfing (That Will Stay Put). For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here.

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