SurfZombie
Tom Curren status
Reged: 06/29/04
Posts: 14200
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I have a "3/2" (more like a 2/2) Oneill Gooru and a 6/4 Billabong AX2 w/ Hood.
The Gooru is a great suit. Had it for 2 years now, and was leagues better than the suits before (including the Psycho I) imo.
However, it's time for a new suit and Doug's post about the Patagonia warranty has me sold. So I'm gonna give their 2/2 a shot and see how it goes.
Aloha
Bryan
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tdurde12
Grom
Reged: 01/15/06
Posts: 35
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1. Billabong foil 3/2 GBS - worthless wetsuit unless you are living in San Diego, fell apart quickly and leaked. Neoprene actually started cracking and breaking apart from the sun after only 7 months
2. Billabong solution gold 4/3 - amazing wetsuit, very stretchy, but the neoprene is not too durable once again, but I can wear it in the dead of winter at Jalama without booties or hood and still warm, the knee and the ass blew out after 6 months and was replaced with a brand new suit (Billabong has great customer service) You do get a bit of flushing through the back
3. Body Glove formula 3/2 - super flexible, the neoprene is so soft and so thin, it feels like cloth, the seams leaked even when brand new, but the bat wing kept flushing out
4. Body Glove vapor 2/2 - not that impressed for a top of the line suit, sure no leaks, but not that warm, even during the late spring and early fall. felt stiffer than the formula 3/2!
5. Oneill heat 4/3 - hated it, the neoprene is soft, but the fit is awful. Oneill fit models must have giant redwood legs and tiny narrow shoulders. I would get flushing in my legs but the upperbody felt like it was in a straitjacket. I usually wear a L/T for every other company, but for Oneill, I am too small for their L/T and too big for their M/T
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Doug93003
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/08/03
Posts: 2138
Loc: Ventura
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Quote:
I have a "3/2" (more like a 2/2) Oneill Gooru and a 6/4 Billabong AX2 w/ Hood.
The Gooru is a great suit. Had it for 2 years now, and was leagues better than the suits before (including the Psycho I) imo.
However, it's time for a new suit and Doug's post about the Patagonia warranty has me sold. So I'm gonna give their 2/2 a shot and see how it goes.
Aloha
Bryan
The 3/2 Gooru is my favorite suit. Most comfortable suit out there. It's only good for about 45 minutes though before you start to get cold in water hwere a 3/2 would normally be fine. I suppose that's why they call it a competition suit.
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I've been told many times on this BB that fins drag so i am no longer using them. -Greg Griffin
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17784
Loc: CA
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Quote:
Quote:
I've had front-zip 4/3 XCEL Infinity's for the past many years, and I like them alright.
4/3? You pussy! Next thing we know, you'll be wearing booties!!!
 
Hey, I do wear booties! 
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dawntwan
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 07/04/07
Posts: 173
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I'm on my second Oneill Psycho 2 4/3 and I love the thing. A little heavy, but I'm always warm. I use my old one as a backup in the 805 and it keeps me pretty damn warm too, not bad considering it must be at least four years old & has a tear in the calf seam (my bad). The old suit looks like shiz (when bone-dry it's getting that gray look) and I don't surf it that often, but I have to say I'm impressed with how the $$$ high end Oneill holds up.
I used to winter in socal with 3/2s exclusively...but then I got old, and cold. Looking forward to trying one of the thinner Pataguccis someday.
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//--tune out, turn off, drop in--//
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fojo
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 10/25/04
Posts: 266
Loc: pnw
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4/3 Quiksilver + booties, gloves and separate hood (o'neill)
They're fine for 48-55 degree water.
If you're cold you should be catching more waves. 
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the future is no place to place your better days
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Havoc
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/10/07
Posts: 10000
Loc: The OC Life
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I've only worn Future Wetsuits for the past 12 years. I plan on ordering another when I finally get paid this month. I just wore an all 3 mil Future that's 6+ years old and it still kept me toasty warm all day today.
The only other suit I'd pay the $$$ for is a Patagonia and only because
(a) They're made in Japan of Japanese Material
(b) They have the most ridiculously good customer service anywhere. I used all their gear for climbing and backpacking and the quality is bad ass.
I like the evolution and design of the American suits, especially hotline, but all the big company wetsuits I've purchased fall apart pretty fast on me. Maybe I'm just rough with my suits 
Peace,
Havoc
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"motions of rippage is initated by the hind leg"-Northern_Shores
"Lemme know. I got endson gas"-20W
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11646
Loc: Tower 13
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It's been almost a month so I figured I'd post an update. I have been wearing two new suits, a Hurley Freedom back zip and a Psycho II.
The tape on the Hurley is coming apart and the plastic piece that holds the strap to the zipper broke. Not sure how that one happened. The Hurley suit leaks just slightly. Still a comfy fast drying suit though.
I've worn the new Psycho probably 6 sessions and so far so good. No leaks and super comfy. Just a lot heavier, especially after wearing the Hurley.
I've been putting in 4-6 sessions a week.
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
Edited by silentbutdeadly (11/13/07 03:28 PM)
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Nico_D
Grom
Reged: 11/10/05
Posts: 121
Loc: Newport Beach
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Xcel Infiniti Front Zip from last year (actually 2) 3/2
Love 'em, super flexible and warm
Also have the Xcel 2m short sleeve, it's great for warmer days, but flushes constantly so if it's a little cold I have to break out the 3/2
Friend has the 2m Xcel full sleeve and he loves it, but it's getting a little cold even for that
Would love to try the Body Glove Vapor
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There's a fine line between fishing and standing on the shore looking like an idiot
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zboz
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 06/21/07
Posts: 201
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I bought an oneill mutant 4/3 this last march and was quite happy with it until the neoprene around the kneepads blew out. I am sending that in to oneill for a replacement. It was a great suit, and have been comfortable in water down to 46 degrees with the hood on. Really liked being able to zip the hood on/off.
My new suit is an xcel 4/3 front zip. Very flexible, comfortable, warm, light when wet, very little flushing. A little concerned about the internal neck opening as it gets stretched to the limit almost every time I get out of the suit, and I am like gumby. But, no rips...yet. Great suit so far after about twenty surfs.
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 5000
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Okay, here goes... from my findings:
1. Hotline: Durable, comfortable, practically bullet proof. But heavy and don't dry quickly. You want a suit that lasts years, not seasons, get a Hotline. This is the suit I compare all others to.
2. RipCurl: Comfortable out of the box, but never last. If you're willing to hold them to their warranty, you can probably get a new suit every 6 months... since that's how long their suits usually last(ed) me.
3. O'Neill: Terrible cut last time I used one. Have never gone back. Got rashes in places a man should never get rashes. I don't even consider O'Neill suits anymore.
4. Victory: Used to be incredible. Gone the way of the Dodo bird.
5. BodyGlove: Haven't used one in ages. Have a buddy that swears by them now. His very good friend is in charge of the wetsuit division. I'm still stuck on that vision of neon Scott Daly suits with that big bright yellow hand. That said, their Vapor suits seem very nice and the external key pocket is a good idea. On the wrist is a bit of a pain, but it works.
6. Patagonia: Light, but not that comfortable to me. Wasn't very stretchy, to my surprise. I think it was a function of the wool liner. Gave me a nasty neck rash.
7. Matuse: Only one session, and I freaking LOVE this wetsuit. First back zip wetsuit I've liked in at least 4 years, maybe longer. I went out for 2 hours at the Queen today and was roasting in the 4/3/2 Hoplite without booties on. I wore my 4/3 Hotline there 2 days ago with booties and was comfortable; today, without booties, I was sweating. And the suit is super light and fits really well. Hanging in my garage right now, I think it's about dry. Amazing. I'm wearing a Large-Short, as opposed to a straight Medium. I think they fit just a hair small, so go a bit bigger than normal on your sizing. The suit may be spendy, but it's totally worth it. I'm a believer. The word "Geoprene" is the waving rainbow flag of gayness atop Mount Gayverest, but this shyte works. If this suit lasts anywhere near as well as my Hotline wetsuits, I'm getting another. In a heart beat. Just wish they did a full 2/2 model since this suit is too warm!
-ShShSh
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Gone. Send hate mail to me at: ShShSh
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Doug93003
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/08/03
Posts: 2138
Loc: Ventura
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4mm Yamamoto rubber is way too much warmth today but I'll bet you're loving it during spring time dawn patrols.
I never got a neck rash from my patagonia as the neck is super soft and not wool. You may want to take it back to where you got it because something may be wrong. Is it the 2 or 3 mm?
My only complaint is that it's a bit tight in the crotch. That's a problem that may not affect everyone but the Cadillac of a man that I am doesn't come without sacrafice.
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I've been told many times on this BB that fins drag so i am no longer using them. -Greg Griffin
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SouthCoastSurfer
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 02/23/07
Posts: 1931
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How much do the Matuse wetsuits run? The 4:3:2?
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 5000
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Doug: ... on second thought, forget it. In any event, notice how I said I've never even considered another O'Neill suit?
Southcoast: It's about $50 more than a top of the line 4/3 from the majors. It was $450 ($448.99), which is a little less than the Patagonia I didn't like. Considering the top of the line 4/3 Billabong is $400, the top of the line Xcel 4/3 is $390, the top of the line 4/3 Body Glove is $390... etcetera-etcetera, I'm not too torn apart paying an extra $50 if this suit lasts.
By the way, they sell them at www.wetsand.com now. I know Brownfish has a short sleeve 2/2. His review convinced me to give it a shot. I'm cautiously stoked. Now to see if it really lasts!
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Gone. Send hate mail to me at: ShShSh
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Doug93003
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/08/03
Posts: 2138
Loc: Ventura
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One difference you'll botice about the front zip patagonias is that they don't have as much slick skin on them. My back zip has it everywhere except the legs and armpits, while the front sip will only have it in the torso. While I don't have issue with the flexability the slick skin does make a wetsuit slightly less flexible.
I think the original reason for so much slick skin was to add warmth. What they figured out is that the Yamamoto Rubber doesn't absorb water so it really isn't needed.
While I haven't been cold yet I'm really thinking of either a 4/3 Matuese or a front zip 3mm Patagonia for those feb-apr windy dawn patrols. I'm just wondering if wearing a Matuse will make me want to wear black nail polish, wear tight pants,and hate my parents.
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I've been told many times on this BB that fins drag so i am no longer using them. -Greg Griffin
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kai kane
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 05/15/03
Posts: 308
Loc: pacific
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I bought a Body Glove Matrix 3/2 a week ago and it's a great suit so far. It's a front zip suit and one step from the top of the line Vapor. It's real warm and flexible so far. No complaints.
I had been holding out for a Patagonia but this suit was almost $200 less and I could get one in my size right away.
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gene_can_sing
Billy Hamilton status
Reged: 05/23/05
Posts: 1369
Loc: United States
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Got a Boz Thermo recently and first impression is good. I had to return the first one, as neoprene around the zipper wasn't trimmed, and the zipper kept getting caught. But the 2nd suit they gave me works well.
I had a Psycho 2 and it was the warmest suit I've ever had. Really, really warm, but it only lasted one season (and I'm a 9to5er). Now, it's freezing cause it leaks so bad. My GF just got me a Boz Thermo as a gift. It cheap for their top of line suit ($219), and it seems pretty good so far. Not as warm as the Psycho 2, but the construction look a lot better. It seems like it's built to last, but we'll see. The Oneil fits a bit better, but the Boz is a LOT stretchier and easier to get in and out of. It actually paddles like I'm wearing a spring suit or something. The Boz has the "fewest seams in the industry," which can be good or bad. The good is that obviously, there's less seams to tear, the bad is that certain areas (like the crotch) fit kind of weird (could use an extra panel there or something).
As for Oneil, I've wore them for years, but they never seem to last more than 1 or 2 seasons max. Great warm, but crappy quality. The Psycho 2 is also heavy, hard to get into and pretty stiff. But if you want warmth, it's freaking warm (at least until it falls apart).
It's strange to say, but a light, flexible wetsuits does make a difference in performace. With the Boz (because it's so flexible and light), I feel a lot less fatigue from paddling. Strange... but true.... and something I never thought of when buying a wetsuit. Before, I used to mainly look for warmth and fit, but now I realize that flexiblity and weight are also major factors.
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Doug93003
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/08/03
Posts: 2138
Loc: Ventura
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Oneill's in my experience haven't been any warmer than any of the name brand suits. They are heavy and soak up water like a sponge. On a cold day with the wind blowing I don't think there is a colder suit. I do agree that they start breaking down quickly.
If you aren't as warm or warmer in your BOZ than it may be leaking.
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I've been told many times on this BB that fins drag so i am no longer using them. -Greg Griffin
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hallucinogenic_toreador
Phil Edwards status
Reged: 03/31/06
Posts: 5955
Loc: socal beachbreak barrels
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quiksilver cell 6 3/2: by far my favorite suit ever. quiksilver is really on to something with the drastic reduction in panels used in the suit. my only complaint is that the neck is a little tight, but that's true of all my suits, and its not as bad as the the rip curls, which cuts off circulation. its a very form fitted suit, and is extremely flexible...by far the snuggest yet least restrictive suit i've ever owned.
rip curl f-bomb 3/2: i've had two of these in the last year, and in both, the glue seams fell apart and caused insane rashes once they did. the quiksilver was given to me by the shop free because of all the problems i had with the rip curls.
my buddy had the same problem with his rip curl f-bombs, so they sent him a free '08 model, which rip curl told him is back to the old formula for the seam glue--apparently, they didn't properly test the stuff.
having said that, the f-bomb 3/2 is almost as warm as any other 4/3 i've ever had.
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"...we woke up to perfect lefts, and that was our mission."
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Teahupoo2000
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 01/29/02
Posts: 3467
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Quote:
quiksilver cell 6 3/2: by far my favorite suit ever. quiksilver is really on to something with the drastic reduction in panels used in the suit. my only complaint is that the neck is a little tight, but that's true of all my suits, and its not as bad as the the rip curls, which cuts off circulation. its a very form fitted suit, and is extremely flexible...by far the snuggest yet least restrictive suit i've ever owned.
I thought that I was the only one who like that wetsuit.....  Really Really Really confortable.
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donniedarko
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/26/04
Posts: 2005
Loc: The Coast
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Quote:
4mm Yamamoto rubber is way too much warmth today but I'll bet you're loving it during spring time dawn patrols.
I never got a neck rash from my patagonia as the neck is super soft and not wool. You may want to take it back to where you got it because something may be wrong. Is it the 2 or 3 mm?
My only complaint is that it's a bit tight in the crotch. That's a problem that may not affect everyone but the Cadillac of a man that I am doesn't come without sacrafice.
Its not conventional 4mm neoprene. Imagine a waffle with a thin lam of neoprene on top. Matuse hava amazing suits. The Matuse actually is not so warm from the Hollow Chamber but the glide skin top. Stuff attracts heat from the sun like solar panels. Its crazy. My patagonia I had leaked from the waist down and seams broke down. Matuse could adjust some things too FWIW. At the end of the day my Psycho I is most used. Psycho II for overcast greybird days, and for when I go north surf the strand north I use my Matuse. To be noted I have two Billabong Solution Plat's and one I use for when I SUP, and the other sits in the closet with tags still on it. Im trying to sell it.
That's my report.
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face the mirror...
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Doug93003
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/08/03
Posts: 2138
Loc: Ventura
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Quote:
Quote:
4mm Yamamoto rubber is way too much warmth today but I'll bet you're loving it during spring time dawn patrols.
I never got a neck rash from my patagonia as the neck is super soft and not wool. You may want to take it back to where you got it because something may be wrong. Is it the 2 or 3 mm?
My only complaint is that it's a bit tight in the crotch. That's a problem that may not affect everyone but the Cadillac of a man that I am doesn't come without sacrafice.
Its not conventional 4mm neoprene. Imagine a waffle with a thin lam of neoprene on top. Matuse hava amazing suits. The Matuse actually is not so warm from the Hollow Chamber but the glide skin top. Stuff attracts heat from the sun like solar panels. Its crazy. My patagonia I had leaked from the waist down and seams broke down. Matuse could adjust some things too FWIW. At the end of the day my Psycho I is most used. Psycho II for overcast greybird days, and for when I go north surf the strand north I use my Matuse. To be noted I have two Billabong Solution Plat's and one I use for when I SUP, and the other sits in the closet with tags still on it. Im trying to sell it.
That's my report.
Not being like standard neoprene is why I said 4mm was a bit much. The Closed cell structure or "Open Chambers" is greatly responsible for their added warmth for a couple reasons.
First air is a terrible conduit for thermal energy. If you have that layer of air between you and the water that will greatly reduce the transfer of your warm body temp to the cold water. It also keeps the cold water further from your body. The slick skin on the top of the rubber keeps what water does find it's way into the suit from evaporating in the free air and wind. The increased thermal warming from the sun is a direct result of the dry(er) rubber and the color black. There is simply less rubber to warm and what is there is dry. You can feel it the instant you put the suit on on a sunny day. Last but not least they are very light in the water and that makes a huge difference.
I've actually toured Yamamoto as a vendor, their metals division, before I even new they had wetsuit material. After they explained their neoprene to me I thought it was crazy that none of the main wetsuit manufacturers were using the stuff. You could get them in Japan but they are kinda funky looking and don't fit us fat Americans really well.
I'm pretty stoked that you can get rack model suits of the rubber here in the US now but they all seem to have their quirks. I'm extremely satisfied with my Patagonia and went that route because of the return policy.
My genitals are telling me to try a Matuse but I haven't talked to anyone who's had one for any length of time. What were the problems you experienced with yours?
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I've been told many times on this BB that fins drag so i am no longer using them. -Greg Griffin
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CAtoFLtoCA
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 08/10/06
Posts: 984
Loc: N. County SD
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Had a Body Glove 3/2 zipperless (had the pull-over neck with
velcro) that was comfy, warm, and cheap that worked well for
about 1 1/2 seasons before it started wearing.
Now I own a 3/2 Hotline Firefly (not taped seems) that seems
to be holding up well going into it's second winter. Fits
well and is comfy. Not the most flexible material out there
but it's holding up better than most past suits and I've
been happy with it. I'd definately go with the full taped-
seam version next time though as the seams to let some water
through, which is no fun on colder days.
Bought a 4/3 Xcel Infinity chest zip from Whiskey Militia
recently and wore it last week for the first time just to
see the difference. DAMN, that suit is WARM. No water
let in whatsoever, fairly flexible (but feels much thicker),
and seems like a great suit so far. Fits great and the only
complaint I'd have is that it's not the easiest to get on or
off, but I think that's mostly due to the fact that I've
never had a 4/3. I'm glad I do now though cuz I think I'll
be VERY comfortable this winter with this and the new Xcel
booties I bought.
Will have to see how well it holds up now.
I'd definately recommend both Hotline and Xcel.
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Forever Stoked!!
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hallucinogenic_toreador
Phil Edwards status
Reged: 03/31/06
Posts: 5955
Loc: socal beachbreak barrels
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Quote:
Quote:
quiksilver cell 6 3/2: by far my favorite suit ever. quiksilver is really on to something with the drastic reduction in panels used in the suit. my only complaint is that the neck is a little tight, but that's true of all my suits, and its not as bad as the the rip curls, which cuts off circulation. its a very form fitted suit, and is extremely flexible...by far the snuggest yet least restrictive suit i've ever owned.
I thought that I was the only one who like that wetsuit..... Really Really Really confortable.
the thing feels like it is custom molded to my body...there isn't a crease or pull anywhere in the suit.
btw, i also have the dirt cheap billabong (foil?) that was only $100 (think retail is actually $120), and it has the airlite neoprene...it is unbelievable value, and it doesn't even really get wet, dries instantly, and is the lightest suit ever...can't believe how much i like such a dirt cheap suit.
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"...we woke up to perfect lefts, and that was our mission."
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robbrunette
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 03/14/06
Posts: 249
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MY 'COLD' IS NOT RELATIVE TO ANYONE ELSE'S 'COLD'.
I went with the Body Glove 3/2 Vapor this season. Not too impressed so far. I was originally looking at the 4/3 Vapor, but I figured as it's their top of the line/'water resistant' neoprene suit that a 3/2 could do the job. I also had corroboration from the guy at ET - a 4/3 would just be too bulkey. Thin and warm was the selling point for me, and I've never had one of their full-suits before. Only used the 2mm short arm, which still reminds me of night-time Summer sessions. Mmmmmm.
I'm 6'3", 185lbs, and 30 years old. In my getting older I can't handle 'cold' water, as it wasn't ever a problem when I was younger. Being lanky sucks. I have the idea that Body Glove is full of it. Their Vapor material is really not any better than Quik, Hurley,Bong,Xcel's standard neoprene. I've had Solution Gold's that are warmer, lighter, generally better than my Vapor. And they're about $100 less.
I'd advise some cynnicism when considering Vapor suits. They're just standard noeprene with a cool hyped name, they're not some armor against cold water. It's also flushing through the neck after about two months use, which feels awesome.
I'm going to go with the Hurley 3/3 Smoothie zipperless suit. I've had the 3/2 smoothie before, and it cooked, though the smoothie fell apart after six months (but was relapced, no questions asked). As smoothie takes on NO water at all, hopefully it will be thin enough to paddle for hours, but stay warm.
I'm desperately fighting the purchase of a 4/3 suit, as they feel awful just trying them on, like I have a phonebook tucked under my arm. I'd like a thin, super warm suit that doesn't cost half a grand. Too much to ask for?
I guess I was expecting some crazy warm suit from the Vapor, but it's just an expensive standard suit. I think their Matrix is just as effective, and cheaper.
When sitting in the line-up I think to myself, 'Oh, THIS is why you wanted a 4/3 for the Winter...' 
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BrownFish
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/04/05
Posts: 2686
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I'm still wearing my SS Matuse 2mm fullsuit. Except during super dawn patrol session. The suit is great. Super light. Super flexible. Takes in hardly any water. I'll be buying my 4/3/2 in about a couple weeks. I'm hoping that next year they come out with a taped, sealed, all 2mm suit. That would probably be the best suit ever. Most likely would be plenty warm to get through the winter in San Diego.
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www.brownfishhandplanes.com/
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ThaDood
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 07/29/03
Posts: 1330
Loc: Surfside, Republic of Tejas
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I guess I'll chime....I've had an Oneil 3/2 zen zip for 4 years and it held up nice but it always felt heavy.
I just bought the Bodyglove Vapor 2/2 thier top of the line suit. (not cheap, over 3 bills) I believe it to be the only 2/2 full suit on the market and I wanted thinner for more flex. I also bought the Vapor Short arm 2/2 as well for the days when it's sunny and less wind. I can take the cold better than most people that I know, so I went with the 2/2.
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LiamUnknown
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 06/15/04
Posts: 528
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Here's what I've learned about suits so far. For the most part suits are the exact same. I've worked in surf retail for around 5 yrs now, this has been off an on but even when not working in it im sponsored by a few different companies, wetsuits being xcel. I've demoed many different suits and gone through clinics for all but body glove, matuse, patagonia, victory and boz. Nearly all big companies have their suits made in the same factory as oneill. I know this for sure applies to quiksilver and im fairly certain billabong as well. I think Xcel also has their suits made sure although I'm not positive on this either. However nearly every suit on the market today shares a factory with at least one other company and often times many more. The main differences are materials used which actually are often the same stuff with different names. As far as the basics, all suits are using pretty much the same glue and liquid seam tape. Exceptions being xcel with their stretchy tape(actual tape) and I can't say anything about patagonia or matuse. Hotline has their own little program which is pretty old school, using less stretchy rubber for durability and not liquid seam taping their seams but taping them with old tape which also increases durability. As far as billabong suits last year, the reps said they did have tons of issues, it was an issue with the glue on the seams and them getting a faulty batch. Suits were already on the market so they decided to basically replace any suits which came back. this year they've supposedly figured it out but platinums will always be incredibly undurable, good news is you're pretty much guranteed a new one if you send it back. Quiksilver is essentially an oneill, that's it. Oneill runs the longest clinic and has the most technologically advanced pamphlet out there, but the truth is the words are all fluff and its the same shiz as is in quiksilver, xcel, billabong etc. Japanese rubber in the matuse and patagonia suits is considered far superior and I'd love to try out one of those. Billabong is saying that with their platinum this year they basically took all the team guys suits, which they get custom made in japan, and tried to incorporate as much as that as possible into a suit that the public could afford. They said straight up the suits aren't too durable but it's for the very top notch guys in the market who want the best. They also said with the platinums is nearly a guranteed new suit with every return. So that's the lowdown and here's my quick picks for suits as well as what im wearing.
Currently wearing
Xcel's(obviously) front zips and back zips, definitely like the front zips way better but i never like back zips.
Probably will buy a billabong platinum soon just to try it out
What i like(all this in short term enjoyment not durability)
Billabong platinum pull over velcro closure
Matuse, seen a few look good
Xcel-super comfortable/warm and fairly durable
Quiksilver-new suits this year are looking really good and reps were most honest about what they copied, what was new and what they used.
Rip Curl- too many models to get a handle on what does what, seems like it's either stretchy or warm and they don't have a suit that does both.
Oneill- oneill suits have always bothered me, i've always thought they've been a little overhyped and underperforming. I've tried a lot but they always felt a little cold and not as flexible as other suits. Furthermore you can't get a straight answer out of any of the reps and you feel like you are always getting fed bullshit. Their clinic lasted 2 hrs basically talking about how their suit/factory was better then anyone elses which is bullshit considering a fair amount of people share that factory with them. Oneill's got the name but is generally not nearly as good as other suits, at least new. I used body gloves a long time back and was never impressed with their quality over time in comparison with other suits. Felt warm the first day and within a week I already felt a substantial difference. I'd really look at patagonias, matuse's, xcels, quiksilvers and billabongs this year as suits to have. the rest are either overpriced or lack the quality of a good top of the line suit, i.e. stretch and warmth
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surfsquish
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 12/17/06
Posts: 182
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Good Review. Million Dollar question?
If you had to pick one wetsuit (from all the ones you tried), which one would you go with?
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Doug93003
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/08/03
Posts: 2138
Loc: Ventura
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Has anyone tried a Nineplus? Same Ymamoto rubber but dirt cheap.
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I've been told many times on this BB that fins drag so i am no longer using them. -Greg Griffin
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ars
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 03/24/06
Posts: 195
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i haven't tried one, but i was in a shop last week and asked about them. the guy said he wears them and thinks they're comfy, flexy and warm, but he hates selling them because they fall apart real quick.
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 5000
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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They have Nineplus at FFF (Foam,Fins&Fiberglass)in Ventura. Looked at them, but they don't look like they have knee pads. Can that be correct? Plus, I can't personally get over how dorky I'd feel wearing a suit that said "Nine Plus" on a board that is anywhere under nine feet.
That said, you have often bragged on here about your abundant/enormous natural, ermmm, "talent." Perhaps you'd place a mark like this -- " -- next to the word Nine on your own wetsuit... now wouldn't you? 
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Gone. Send hate mail to me at: ShShSh
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Doug93003
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/08/03
Posts: 2138
Loc: Ventura
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Quote:
That said, you have often bragged on here about your abundant/enormous natural, ermmm, "talent." Perhaps you'd place a mark like this -- " -- next to the word Nine on your own wetsuit... now wouldn't you?
Like any good lawyer you're asking me to tell a half truth.
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I've been told many times on this BB that fins drag so i am no longer using them. -Greg Griffin
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humanzee
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 12/05/05
Posts: 472
Loc: got fog?
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Quote:
Has anyone tried a Nineplus? Same Ymamoto rubber but dirt cheap.
I have had a Nineplus 3/2 for about a year now. It was cheap and I did not have much hope for how long it would last, since the guy at the shop said they have had a lot of zipper failures and you have to treat it nicely but-
It still does not leak at the seams. Sometimes the neck does flush out in larger surf. It is warm even in SF area. I was actually a bit hot the other day while the sun was out and I was on the paddle treadmill. It dries really fast and stays light.
Cons: The cut is a bit funky maybe modeled after someone with larger hips, legs, butt... shoulders are a bit tight. When new the rubber is very slippery.
I am not sure if I would get another but it still surprises me that it keeps me warm without any problems after a year. Very lucky maybe but so much nicer than the last excel.
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less barking and more wagging~
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 5000
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Quote:
Quote:
That said, you have often bragged on here about your abundant/enormous natural, ermmm, "talent." Perhaps you'd place a mark like this -- " -- next to the word Nine on your own wetsuit... now wouldn't you?
Like any good lawyer you're asking me to tell a half truth.
 -- Hey! I resemble that remark... I mean, resent!! Resent it, I say!!
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Gone. Send hate mail to me at: ShShSh
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LiamUnknown
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 06/15/04
Posts: 528
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i'm assuming you mean as an average consumer where durability would be an issue. I really like the billabong solution golds for a back zip, they've got a new barrier system which is pretty cool. For a front zip I'd pick an Xcel but I'm biased towards them for obvious reasons. As for me, I will actually most likely get a solution platinum although I don't recommend them for most people since you'll have to send them back constantly. My reason is just to try one out and I have a steady stock of xcels at my house.
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ars
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 03/24/06
Posts: 195
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i picked up a 4/3 Boz thermo boss front zip suit right before Christmas. meeting up with harry was super cool. he's a real down to earth guy with a great perpective on wetsuits and phenominal with his customer service. he made a comment that i thought was really cool when i asked him about Boz trying to make a bigger presence for themselves. he said that they are able to keep the cost of their suits down because they don't sink millions into marketing, and by making a few hundred suits at a time instead of thousands allows them to take their product into different directions sooner. Also, when they started Boz their goal was to be able to surf everyday and if they got bigger they'd be too busy to do that.
the suit is extremely well constructed, very similar to some hotline's i checked out before. the material is very flexible and the way the suit is cut around the upper arm and shoulders really makes sense for when you're paddling.
the first time i wore the suit i was really stoked on how loose it felt while paddling, but i did notice that it flushed a little more than other front zips i've tried. i shot harry an e-mail about it and he let me try out a back zip for a couple days to see if i liked it better. i don't think anyone at a surfshop would have offered something like that. after trying the back zip and the front zip another time, i felt the front zip was more comfy and decided to keep it. i also wasn't a big fan of the back zip's velcro closure system.
i adjusted the way i put the front zip on the next time i wore it, which helped the flushing quite a bit. however, after wearing the suit a few more times, i started developing a really bad, itchy rash. turns out only three people in the last 10 years have had this happen. seems to be an allergy to the glue. harry took the suit back, no hassle, and gave me my money back. i'm really bummed it din't work out because i really did end up liking the suit. it was very warm, paddled like wearing a 2mm spring, dried pretty quick and i really liked giving my business to a small, grass roots operation with phenominal customer service.
if you're thinking about getting one, i highly recommend it. the quality of construction and the yamamoto materials they use are excellent. i'd try one on if you can get to him because their fit is a little different than most suits. if you can't get to him to try one on, i'd order one a little smaller that what the size chart recommends.
so i think i'm going to try the new hotline phoenix or freebird. anyone try either of these?
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Kman
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 11/15/05
Posts: 211
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I have 3/2 Hotline phoenix. I got it back in November and so far I like it. The durability isn't what they are cracked up to be. The stitching around the neck entry (not a seam) started to come undone right away and it feels like it is starting to leak a bit in the butt.
That said, the material is super flexible. I tried on o'neils, quicksivlers, Xcels and a few others before getting this suit and by far it is the most comfortable. And it has kept me warm enough on those offshore 55 degree dawn patrol sessions. Not having any slick skin, thecold offshore winds can be a bit tough. And the wrist and ankles use the old rubber that seems to absorb the water. And there is no antiflushing rubber in those areas either like the other high end suits.
Overall, fit and comfort is a 10, durabililty would be an 8. Warmth I'd say is probably an 8 as well. I like it but I am concerned that it will be a leaky bastard by next winter. Time will tell.
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Pelagic
Grom
Reged: 05/18/06
Posts: 112
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Anyone having problems with the knees on their new O'neill 4/3 Psycho?
2 guys at my spot had them blow out quickly.
It appears that the knee material is pretty thin; maybe due to using 1 part for all different suit thicknesses in the line.
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