Was bored at lunch and decided to check out wetsuits since I need a new 3/2 next winter and my 2mm ss full is on it's last leg

SS Full:

Matuse: Not that impressed with feel. Felt thick and not all that sleek of a design. I was expecting a really light flexible suit. Fit fine but tight in the shoulders. The farmer john gasket seems like it would rip after ten sessions and I'm not really understanding why it's there? The suit was also very binding with the back zip. As the most expensive suit, it's a definite no go for me.

Oneil Epic: Clean, simple and cheap. Liked everything about it but the flexibility (rear zip). It would work but definitely not over the Xcel I have.

Patagonia: Was pleasantly surprised at the flexibility after hearing reviews. Rear zip was hardly binding at all and the suit fit well. It also seemed like it would be really warm. We'll see how my xcel holds up this summer. Rumor has it they may offer it in a front zip next year.

Then since I liked the patagucci, I tried an R2 front zip full. The Large may have been a bit snug and I probably should have tried the LT. Other than the gasket, I liked the feel of the suit, and was pleasantly surprised with the feeling of the wool. Seemed like it would be toasty. The wrist and ankle cuffs were awesome. Lot of thought put into something simple like that.

Did I like it enough to pay full price? Not so sure at this point.

Either way, my next two suits will NOT be Xcel's for nothing else other than just trying other technology.

I know not a full review but just some observations from someone who's pretty happy with Xcel.