Best Wetsuit

Whether you’re diving or surfing, you need a wetsuit to protect you from the elements. When you’re surfing, a wetsuit can provide some protection from the sun. And it won’t go flying off during a wipeout, leaving you naked and searching for your swimsuit in the surf.

For scuba diving, a wetsuit is even more important. In cold water, it will keep you warm. And in warm water, it provides some protection from coral and other hazards. But no matter what you’re doing, you want the best wetsuit you can get your hands on.

In this guide, we’ll be looking at fifteen suits from the best wetsuit brands on the market. We’ve chosen a variety of thicknesses, materials, and prices, and selections both for scuba diving and for surfing. We’ve also made sure to include a selection of both men’s and women’s wetsuits, so everyone can find something for their needs. Finally, we’ve tried to cover a range of prices, from beginner suits to premium suits for experienced divers.

Best Wetsuits Available Online

1. O’Neill Reactor II 3/2mm

The O’Neill Men’s Reactor II is a medium-duty wetsuit that can be used in most water temperatures.

Key Features

• Full men’s wetsuit
• 3/2mm thick
• Constructed from nylon II neoprene material
• Flat stitching
• Front zipper
• Thick knee pads
• Available in 12 sizes
• Available in 4 colors

The O’Neill Men’s Reactor II is the new version of their popular Reactor wetsuit, which is constructed from highly flexible nylon II neoprene. This material is 200 percent more flexible than traditional closed cell or open cell neoprene, which makes it easier to move while you’re wearing it.

This wetsuit has thick, padded knees, designed for kneeling on a boat deck or surfboard. If you’re going to be spending a lot of time doing either of those things, it’s a solid choice.

The stitches on the Reactor II are flat stitches, which means the material is doubled over and stitched in multiple rows. This is an upgrade over old-style single-stitched seams which are easy to tear. However, it still allows some water to flow through the stitches.

Pros

• Extra flexible
• Comfortable knee pads
• Affordable

Cons

• Not watertight

This wetsuit is a good choice for beginners who want a reliable suit that won’t break the bank.

2. XCEL Thermoflex 7/6mm

The XCEL Thermoflex is the best wetsuit for diving in cold water, where insulation is essential.

Key Features

• Full men’s wetsuit
• 7/6mm thick
• Constructed from open cell neoprene material
• Glued and blind stitched
• Back and ankle zippers
• Reinforced, pre-bent knees
• Watertight cuffs
• Soft quick dry lining

The XCEL Thermoflex is the thickest wetsuit on our list: 7mm on the chest and back, and 6mm on the arms and legs. Because it’s so thick, it’s exceptionally warm, enough to dive in 50-degree water. That’s a great feature if you’re diving in a cold area, but it comes with a downside; you’ll be sweating yourself silly if you wear this suit in warm water, just as you would if you went outside wearing a down coat on a summer day.

This is a top of the line wetsuit, with glued and blind stitched seams. This is similar to a flat seam, but glue is applied between the layers of neoprene, ensuring a waterproof seal. And thanks to the ankle zippers, you’ll have an easy time putting the Thermoflex on and off.

Pros

• Extremely warm
• Easy to put on and take off
• Comfortable
• Watertight design

Cons

• Too warm for use in the tropics
• Limited size availability
• A little pricey

The ankle zippers on this wetsuit make it easy to get in and out of.

3. O’Neill Psychofreak 3/2mm

The O’Neill Psychofreak has unique drain holes at the bottom of the zipper, so it won’t retain water while you’re sitting on your board.

Key Features

• Full men’s wetsuit
• 3/2mm thick
• Constructed from open cell neoprene material
• Glued and blind stitched
• Back zipper
• Drain holes in the zipper
• Watertight cuffs

The O’Neill Psychofreak is a mid-weight wetsuit with a 3mm torso and 2mm limbs. It’s glued and blind stitched, with watertight cuffs that prevent large amounts of water from flowing through your suit. The open cell neoprene construction is more durable than cheaper closed cell neoprene, and also warmer.

But what really sets this suit apart is the unique zipper, which features patented one-way holes that allow water to drain out when you get out of the water. This is a really nice feature for surfers since it means you won’t be carrying extra water around while you’re up on your board.

The Psychofreak is expensive. But considering the features, it’s still a good value.

Pros

• Waterproof design
• Good choice for surfers
• Doesn’t retain water

Cons

• Limited size availability
• Expensive

If you want a full-length wetsuit for surfing, this is an excellent choice.

4. Scubapro Womens 0.5mm

The Scubapro Women’s Profile Steamer is a thin, warm-weather wetsuit that can also be used as an insulating layer under a thicker suit for cold-weather diving.

Key Features

• Full women’s wetsuit
• 0.5mm thick
• Constructed from closed cell neoprene material
• Flat stitching
• Back zipper
• Built-in thumb loops and stirrups
• Available in 7 sizes

The Scubapro Women’s Profile Steamer is a lightweight, 0.5mm wetsuit that’s designed for use in tropical climates. At this thickness, it’s useful for protecting yourself from jellyfish, but not for keeping you warm. If you’re going to be swimming in cooler climates, consider a heavier wetsuit.

Alternatively, you could use the Steamer as a first layer, and slip inside a heavier wetsuit for extra warmth. The Steamer’s thumb loops and stirrups make this easy, and keep your arms and legs from bunching up while you put on a second suit. Best of all, this wetsuit is reasonably priced.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Flexible
• Can be used as a first layer under a heavier suit
• Affordable

Cons

• Not very warm
• Not watertight

This wetsuit is ideal for tropical waters, where keeping warm is not a concern.

5. Bare Velocity 5mm

The Bare Velocity is made from nylon II neoprene, which is more flexible and stretchy than standard neoprene.

Key Features

• Full men’s wetsuit
• 5mm thick
• Constructed from nylon II neoprene material
• Flat stitching
• Back and ankle zippers
• Adjustable velcro collar
• Reinforced, rubberized knee pads
• Padded interior
• Available in 8 sizes
• Available in 3 colors

The Bare Velocity is a 5mm wetsuit, which is a medium-heavy thickness, designed to be worn in cool water, between about 60 and 70 degrees. It’s constructed from flexible nylon II neoprene fabric, with a soft, padded interior that keeps you warm and comfortable at the same time.

The knee pads on this wetsuit are rubberized to provide plenty of grip, which is a useful feature if you’re kneeling on a surf board or a slick boat deck. Ankle zippers make it easy to slip in and out of, which is yet another feature that makes it worth considering. The only downside to this suit is the flat seams, which admit some water while you’re swimming.

Pros

• Warm
• Comfortable
• Extra flexible
• Easy to put on and take off

Cons

• Not watertight

This wetsuit is ideal for mildly cool water, where some insulation is required.

6. Mares Men’s Flexa 5/4/3mm

The Mares Men’s Flexa has extra insulation in the back of the suit, which makes your BCD more comfortable to wear.

Key Features

• Full men’s wetsuit
• 5/4/3mm thick
• Constructed from nylon II neoprene material
• Flat stitching
• Back zipper
• Soft inner lining
• Extra insulation in the back
• Reinforced polyurethane knee pads

The Mares Men’s Flexa is designed to be as rugged and durable as possible. It’s constructed from tough nylon II neoprene, with flat triple stitches that can take a lot of abuse, although they’re not watertight. But the toughest feature of all are the knee pads, which are thick and solid enough to crawl around on the ocean floor.

This suit has three different thicknesses. The arms and legs are 3mm thick, and most of the torso is 4mm thick. However, the back panel is 5mm thick, both for extra warmth and for comfort under your BCD. Throw in a soft interior liner, and you’ve got a quality wetsuit that’s well worth the price tag.

Pros

• Warm
• Comfortable
• Durable construction
• Extra tough knee pads
• Extra flexible

Cons

• Not watertight
• Limited size availability
• A little pricey

This is a great choice if comfort is your primary concern.

7. O’Neill Psycho Tech 3/2mm

The O’Neill Psycho Tech is more rugged than most wetsuits on the market.

Key Features

• Full men’s wetsuit
• 3/2mm thick
• Constructed from open cell neoprene material
• Glued and blind stitched
• Upper front zipper
• Watertight cuffs
• Adjustable, double-sealed neck
• Fluid welded silicone seams
• Available in 8 sizes
• Available in 2 colors

The O’Neill Psycho Tech is another high-quality, durable wetsuit that will last you for years if it’s properly maintained. The open cell neoprene material keeps you warm in 70-degree water, and the seams are reinforced. Not only are they glued and blind stitched, but O’Neill applies a silicone seal over the top for extra durability and water protection.

This wetsuit also features watertight cuffs, and a double-sealed neck to keep water from flowing through in any significant amount. Finally, it offers a unique zipper, which opens across the top of the chest. This sounds awkward, but it’s actually very easy to slip inside of once you’ve wet it down.

Pros

• Tough, durable construction
• Watertight design
• Easy to put on and take off

Cons

• A little pricey

This wetsuit’s double-sealed neck provides some of the best leak protection on the market.

8. Henderson Thermoprene 3mm

The Henderson 3mm Thermoprene Men’s Wetsuit has cushy knee pads, which make it comfortable to kneel on a boat or your board.

Key Features

• Full men’s wetsuit
• 3mm thick
• Constructed from nylon II neoprene material
• Glued and blind stitched
• Back zipper
• Adjustable collar
• Flexible knee pads
• Available in 19 sizes

The Henderson 3mm Thermoprene Men’s Wetsuit is designed primarily for comfort, ergonomics, and ease of movement. It’s constructed from nylon II neoprene, with plenty of flex and give. It also features knee pads that are relatively thin, but also extremely flexible, so you won’t be fighting your own suit while you’re kicking through the water. The collar is also adjustable, and very comfortable on your neck.

This wetsuit runs long in the legs. If you’re on the fence on the sizing chart, go with the smaller size, and you should be just fine. For a mid-priced suit, the Henderson is very well constructed, and a good bargain.

Pros

• Extra flexible
• Comfortable knee pads
• Great value

Cons

• Sized very long in the legs

This wetsuit is exceptionally well manufactured for a mid-range suit.

9. NeoSport Premium 5mm

The NeoSport Men’s Premium Neoprene 5mm Full Suit has reinforced, glued and blind stitched seams, a nice feature on an inexpensive suit.

Key Features

• Full men’s wetsuit
• 5mm thick
• Constructed from closed cell neoprene material
• Glued and blind stitched
• Back zipper
• Adjustable velcro collar
• Seams are taped at stress points
• Thermal bonded nylon knee pads
• Available in 7 sizes
• Available in 2 colors

The NeoSport Men’s Premium Neoprene 5mm Full Suit is a medium-heavy suit, which will keep you warm down to about 60 degree water. It features very durable seams, which aren’t just glued and blind stitched, but reinforced with tape at all of the stress points.

This suit has an adjustable velcro collar, for comfort and a better fit. However, the knee pads are thermally bonded to the fabric, and will peel away with enough use. On the other hand, the NeoSport is very reasonably priced, and a good choice if you’re looking for a warm suit on a budget.

Pros

• Warm
• Strong seams
• Affordable

Cons

• Cheap knee pads

This is one of the most affordable glued and blind stitched wetsuits that money can buy.

10. Quiksilver Syncro Series 3/2mm

The Quiksilver Syncro Series features an infrared thermal lining, which helps you retain more body heat than most 3mm wetsuits.

Key Features

• Full men’s wetsuit
• 3/2mm thick
• Constructed from closed cell neoprene material
• Glued and blind stitched
• Back zipper
• Adjustable neck
• Flexible knee pads
• Infrared thermal lining
• Available in 22 sizes
• Available in 11 colors

The Quiksilver Syncro Series is a men’s full wetsuit that’s designed for warmer water, around 70 degrees or more. It’s an entry-level model, with a low price tag and basic, closed cell neoprene material. It’s also lightweight for the thickness, with glued and blind stitched seams to reduce water flow between your suit and the environment.

This wetsuit comes in an impressive 22 sizes. We can safely say that just about anyone will be able to find one that fits. It also features an infrared thermal lining, which is designed to contain body heat without adding a lot of weight.

Pros

• Impressive size selection
• Lightweight
• Warm
• Affordable

Cons

• Flimsy construction

This suit is one of the warmest budget-rate suits you’ll be able to find.

11. Seavenger Odyssey 3mm

The Seavenger Odyssey is available in both men’s and women’s sizes, so everyone can get in on the action.

Key Features

• Full men’s and women’s wetsuit
• 3mm thick
• Constructed from closed cell neoprene material
• Flat stitching
• Back zipper
• Flexible armpit and knee panels
• Available in 17 sizes
• Available in 4 colors

The Seavenger Odyssey is a full wetsuit that’s available in both men’s and women’s sizes. Congratulations, ladies! There’s no need to stuff your hips and chest into a wetsuit that was tailored for a man. The Odyssey also has flexible armpit and knee panels, which make it easier to get in and out of.

This is a budget-rate suit, designed for people who are new to surfing or scuba and don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on their first wetsuit. As a result, it has flat stitching, which isn’t watertight. Then again, it’s a medium-duty suit, designed for 70-degree water, so it’s not like you need a ton of protection.

Pros

• Available in men’s and women’s sizes
• Flexible
• Easy to put on and take off
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Not watertight

The flexible armpit and knee panels make this wetsuit easy to put on and take off.

12. Roxy Syncro 4/3mm

The Roxy Women’s Syncro Series has a 4mm-thick back and chest, with an infrared thermal lining for added warmth.

Key Features

• Full women’s wetsuit
• 4/3mm thick
• Constructed from closed cell neoprene material
• Glued and blind stitched
• Back zipper
• Adjustable neck
• Watertight cuffs
• Infrared thermal lining
• Available in 9 sizes
• Available in 7 colors

The Roxy Women’s Syncro Series is a well-designed women’s wetsuit that’s designed for cool water. It’s more lightweight than most medium-heavy wetsuits since it’s only 4mm thick instead of 5mm. Roxy makes up for the thinner material by applying an infrared thermal lining on the interior, which keeps you warm without adding significant weight.

This wetsuit is glued and blind stitched on the seams and features an adjustable neck and watertight cuffs to limit the exchange of water. Just don’t get to attached to the snug fit; the thighs will start to sag after you’ve worn it several times.

Pros

• Warm
• Watertight design
• Affordable

Cons

• Thighs get saggy after a few wears

This warm, watertight wetsuit is ideal for swimming in cool water.

13. COPOZZ Diving Skin

The COPOZZ Diving Skin is a lightweight wetsuit that can be worn on its own, or under a heavier suit for extra insulation.

Key Features

• Full men’s and women’s wetsuit
• 0.5mm thick
• Constructed from lycra material
• Flat stitching
• Front zipper
• Thumb loops and stirrups
• Slick outer surface
• Available in 10 sizes
• Available in 6 colors

The COPOZZ Diving Skin is an inexpensive wetsuit that’s available in both men’s and women’s sizes. It’s 0.5mm thick, so it’s for tropical use only. Alternatively, you can use it as a first layer for added warmth under a heavier wetsuit. This is easy to do, both because of the thumb loops and stirrups, but also because of the slick lycra shell.

This suit is available in high-visibility green, blue, and pink, which makes it easy for your dive buddy to spot you in the water. If you’re on a small budget, this is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Can be worn as a first layer under a heavier suit
• Available in men’s and women’s sizes
• High-visibility colors available
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Not very warm
• Not watertight

This wetsuit is available in high-visibility colors for your safety.

14. Lemorecn Premium 3mm

The Lemorecn Shorty Jumpsuit is a basic shorty wetsuit that’s perfect for surfers, or for scuba diving in warm water.

Key Features

• Shorty men’s and women’s wetsuit
• 3mm thick
• Constructed from closed cell neoprene material
• Flat stitching
• Back zipper
• Adjustable velcro neck
• Available in 12 sizes
• Available in 5 colors

The Lemorecn Shorty Jumpsuit is sized for both men and women, and it’s one of two shorty suits on our list. It only extends as far as your knees and elbows, which makes it a good choice for surfers who spend a good chunk of time outside the water.

Because it’s so short, this suit is easy to put on and remove. That said, it’s a shorty suit. As a result, it’s not watertight, so use it in warm water only.

Pros

• Good choice for surfers
• Available in men’s and women’s sizes
• Easy to put on and take off
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Not watertight

This wetsuit is very reasonably priced, and comes in both men’s and women’s sizes.

15. Henderson Thermoprene PRO

Of all the suits we’ve looked at, the Henderson Men’s Thermoprene Pro is the best wetsuit for surfing.

Key Features

• Shorty men’s wetsuit
• 3mm thick
• Constructed from nylon II neoprene material
• Glued and blind stitched
• Front zipper
• Reinforced shoulder pads
• Available in 13 sizes
• Available in 2 colors

The Henderson Men’s Thermoprene Pro is a shorty suit that’s crafted from flexible nylon II neoprene. It’s not watertight, but it’s exceptionally comfortable in warm water. Not only will surfers love it, but so will divers; the padded shoulders make wearing a BDC more comfortable than ever. And with a front zipper and its shorty design, it’s very easy to get into.

Pros

• Extra flexible
• Comfortable to wear with a BDC
• Easy to put on and take off
• Great choice for surfers

Cons

• Not watertight

This wetsuit has thick shoulder pads, which provide plenty of cushion under your BDC.

Bottom Line

When you’re choosing a wetsuit, the most important thing to look at is the thickness of the material. In warm, tropical waters, a 2mm suit will protect your skin without making you too warm. In cooler waters, you’ll want a thicker suit to help you retain more body heat. A 3mm suit is good for 70-degree waters, a 5mm suit will keep you warm down to 60 degrees, and a 7mm suit will be effective to about 50 degrees. Any colder than that, and you should consider investing in a dry suit instead.

Another consideration is style. As you’ve noticed, most of the wetsuits on our list are full length, which means they cover you all the way down to your wrists and ankles. However, many surfers prefer a lighter, shorty-style suit that only goes to your knees and elbows. This style provides minimal warmth but keeps you covered.

We hope this wetsuits review has helped you find the perfect suit for your needs.