Time for a new wetty as we get into these colder months. I'm looking at a Patagonia R1 and notice that it comes in the back zip and chest zip.
Just wondering if anyone has any preferences on which zip they prefer and why? Online consensus seems pretty split down the middle.
Cheers
Cheers - my main problem is when arching my back I find the zipper poking into my neck. Not sure if it's my cheap suit or sensitive neck. First time I've had the problem. Hoping a chest zip will make it a nicer experience.
The post was mainly just to find out if anyone hated it for any particular reason.
I got a oniell psycho 2 and it has a another layer of neoprene between my back & neck. it goes over the head and neck. and keeps it pretty comfy. best thing to do would be to go instore and try some on. Anything premium will probably feel pretty comfortable.
Its probably an ill fitting wetsuit causing this problem with your neck. I'd try on as many different suits as possible to find one thats going to fit extremely well as size/shape of suits differ slightly, and maintaining a stable weight.
Eg. I know I have to be a few KGs lighter for my 3mm wetsuit to fit well and not rub on my neck, whereas my 7mm is good no matter what.
Talking diving suits here not surfing, but ultimately its the same thing - an ill fitting wetsuit will rub no matter what brand.
Cheers, I'll try a few different ones out then.
@wittyusername: For similar money or even a bit cheaper, have a look at a custom made suit from Bodyline NZ
Maybe they have improved, but we always went for back-zips as the front zips were uncomfortable to lie on
Thanks - I deffo spend more time lying there waiting and daydreaming then I do actually surfing, so that's good to know! I'll make sure I lie on my tummy when I'm trying them out instore.
If its a surfing wetsuit, the chest zip is usually positioned horizontally across the chest so you don't lie on it.. its not like the old school diving /waterski ones that zip vertically like a jacket, which would be totally unsuitable for surfing as the zip would hurt like hell to lie on.
I have only ever had the chest zip ones (Rip Curl E-bomb, Oneil and Hurley)… Chest zip is supposed to be better than back so you dont get any cold water leaking down your back… TBH the chest zip just transfers this problem to your chest but its bearable.
I always prefer the Rip Curl ones as they make a Large Tall size which fits me best. Go try some on…
I would personally avoid one that is split down the middle, tbh.
Really really depends on whether you are more or of a Mike Myers or a Heather Graham type.
Yep - if you have a hairy chest, you might prefer the back zipper.
If you have a hairy back however - ew!
Back zip if you have a time-machine to head back to the nineties.
Otherwise chest zip if you want to keep up with all the other kool kids.
You can even go the ultimate step and have a completely ziperless wetsuit. I have one but never wear it because you need to be a yoga master to get it on.
Thanks for all the advice.
Ended up with a chest zip Xcel Comp 3/2. Took it out yesterday and it's a game changer! Very stoked on the new buy - hopefully it lasts a few years!
not much difference. haven't been in the market for a longtime. but the best around were usually ripcurl or oniell. chest zip may help with water seepage.