silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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The Patagonia thread got me thinking about doing an unbiased wetsuit thread. We have a lot of surfers on here that are in the water several times a week and I know there are many different brands being worn. If anyone has any suggestions for how it should be structured then feel free to chime in. If you think it's stupid, then just ignore!
I have three new suits for this winter:
Hurley Freedom 3/2 Back zip
3/2 Psycho II (brand new from warranty return)
Quiksilver Ignite 4/3.
I've only worn the hurley so far for about 8 sessions and here is my critique so far:
Comfy fast drying suit (dries faster than any suit I've owned). No leaks so far but I don't think it's quite as warm as my previous oneil's. Time will tell when the water cools down to winter temps. The YKK zipper lets zero water in and I rarely get water in through the neck on duck dives. Since the zipper has the water proof panel it is kind of stiff and you can feel it bind at times, especially when you first put it on. Not enough to really bother me, but just something I noticed. So far so good with this suit.
Post your wetsuit critiques here throughout the season... maybe this can be kind of like the 2007 surf journal? 
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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There should be a disclaimer acknowledging the fact that you are a guy who wears booties in San Diego.
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20W-50 and blood
Duke status
Reged: 02/04/04
Posts: 16854
Loc: SOCAL
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Jesus was Mexican, Ronald Reagan was the devil, and the government is lying about 9-11.
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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Dic! 
There were two guys with hoods on this morning and I'm not kidding.
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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I'm just saying...
Your "cold" my not be anyone else's "cold".
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tenover
Phil Edwards status
Reged: 01/17/03
Posts: 7132
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I would post a review, but there's no point. You just get a bunch of dickheads who like to tear apart whatever you say, or tell you that your wrong, or this and that. I like my new suit. There, that's it. Have fun. I'm making an effort to not post on this forum anymore.
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"It’s always better to feel good about what you did than what you haven’t done...." - Terry Martin
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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Quote:
tear apart
It's tearing apart already? How long have you had that suit? Patagonia, right?
You're wrong.
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Troyus
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 01/25/06
Posts: 302
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Quote:
Quote:
tear apart
It's tearing apart already? How long have you had that suit? Patagonia, right?
You're wrong.
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importheinekin
Nep status
Reged: 04/13/06
Posts: 859
Loc: Newport
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regardless, I will post up some info.
I'm still wearing the 06/07 Psycho 2.
The Cons: heavy suit (biggest gripe), hard to get off, stitching on the ankle cuff and wrist cuff can unravel or blow out easily. (for example, if you tuck your leash under, the velcro will snag it, or for those who wear booties I imagine the same thing will happen)
It might feel a bit stiff when dry, but once you're in the water, even with the double fluid seam weld, it's a really stretchy and comfortable suit. More so than a Xcel Infinity I owned (stretchy, but the warms weren't big enough in diameter for me, so it felt constricting...if you have smaller arms I'm sure it'd be fantastic)
Pros: been durable...2nd season with it (well, the 2nd season just started but it didn't get all crispy or sh*tty in the summer). pretty damn toasty, my body is pretty damn dry...not much water gets in thru the neck, the glideskin on neck never gives me a rash.
Quik Cell HFT: really warm suit, comfortable fit, fell apart on me rather QUIKly. I have a S/S Full by them that's comfortable, but that too is coming apart at seams and such. I really like theyre Hyperstretch tho, it's pretty light. I just wish the suits themselves didn't fall apart.
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swegin
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 09/20/07
Posts: 1068
Loc: carolina
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I got a 4/3 O'neill off the internet a couple of years ago. Whiskey Militia. Built in hood. I live in San Diego. I'm burning up in the thing. So then I get the cheapest O'neill 3/2 off the internet. Paid about 80 bucks for it. No tape or any seal on the seams at all. Cold water just leaks right in. But it's thin and comfortable. So I go down the hill in December for what turns out to be the best day of the winter. I paddle out, telling myself I'm just going to charge into the first good wave I'm in position for. I'm undergunned. I stroke into this sucking up left and pretty much free fell to the bottom. I eat it and get sucked up and over, my shitty wetsuit unzipping completely and filling up with water. I'm down on the sandbar, drowning, my wetsuit ballooning and holding me down like a sea anchor. I struggle to the top, hyperventilating, and take the next 10' face on the head. Back down to the sandbar, rolling, my exposed skin freezing. Back up, gasping for air, wondering if I should cry out for help. I'm a grey-haired old-guy surfer victim, waiting to drown. I get the board under me in time to be blasted by another inside barreling left. I wash in far enough to get on my board and start paddling. I drag myself up on the beach, shivering.
That cheap ass wetsuit almost drowned me.
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Bakala
Grom
Reged: 08/29/07
Posts: 113
Loc: None of your business
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Body Glove low end shorty: Bought it at Dick's for 40 bucks and its lasted 3 summers. Flexible best deal ever
Rip Curl e-bomb 3/2: Most flexible suit I ever had. Light. Only used 1yr but holding up well. Definately lose the batwing!! Key pouch in the thigh rules.
Quicksilver 4/3 hooded cell chest zip: Picked up 3yrs ago for 100bucks. Holding up with just a little fraying. Warm as hell down to the high 40's. Flexible enough.
Psycho 2 6/4 back zip hooded: Flexible as the 4/3 quicksilver. Toasty even in the 30's. True a little heavy but the warmest suit I ever had. No fraying or anything after 2yrs.
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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Quote:
I got a 4/3 O'neill...Built in hood. I live in San Diego. I'm burning up in the thing.
So then I get the cheapest O'neill 3/2 off the internet. Paid about 80 bucks for it. No tape or any seal on the seams at all. Cold water just leaks right in.
I don't get it. Are you bipolar?
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patrolman
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/28/05
Posts: 1851
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Rip Curl E Bomb front zip 3/2
I bought it because if seemed the softest and stretchiest and because the sales guy said, "No more water down the back."
Now I get water down the front! Especially on front side crash tubes (I'm regular foot). Not cool. They need to put a velcro closure on the flap or something. I'm thinking of doing it myself. How can you attach velcro to nylon without a sewing machine?
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eoj
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 06/11/03
Posts: 2540
Loc: LA
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3/2 E-Bomb well made super super flexable, hate the key pocket in the knee area can't get that little zipper to work there's a wax comb in there that i can't get to.
does flush down the neck a bit, second season with it and it still feels new , really nice soft rubber, could be warmer when it's off shore. i'd get another one . but i think i'd get the chest entry.
good suit !
anyone wearing the vapor from bodyglove?
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I rip
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need 4 speed
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 11/01/03
Posts: 2718
Loc: SoCal
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I'm using the 3/2 Vapor.I think this might be the thrid winter(can't really remember)Good suit,warm and dry.Seems to be holding up well
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NOT THAT KIND
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Heavyfooted
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 10/17/06
Posts: 2717
Loc: Orange County
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Anyone wearing the new XCEL chest zip... I think it's called drylock???
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pickles
Miki Dora status
Reged: 08/18/03
Posts: 4923
Loc: Ventura, CA
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Quote:
I'm just saying...
Your "cold" my not be anyone else's "cold".
And how you feel in 58 degree water is not the way everyone feels in 58 degree water.
I grew up surfing HMB and santa cruz in a springsuit. Now having spent 10 years in SB and 2 in hawaii, I consider 58 to be verge-of-death freezing, and want some serious protection from the elements.
I like my Oniels. Gooru and Psycho II. They fit nice, are super flexible, and are very warm. So much better than the suits I grew up with its not even funny.
The xcel 4/3 I have has nice materials, but the neck is stretched out so it flushes. Pretty bulky too.
I can get deals on Body Glove suits ... has anybody tried one?
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No longer accepting offers to surf for money.
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R_surf
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 08/23/06
Posts: 426
Loc: S. Cali , US
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Last Suit: Oneill Heat 3/2 for LA County, Ventura, and OC. It was my only suit, and worked well. It would flush a little bit. After about 8 months the suit was shot. Water leaking in all over the place, stitching coming undone. I was pretty disapointed. Still have it in case a friend wants to use it and what not. (I couldn't send it into repair because I could not find the damn receipt and the shop was pretty adamant about that)
Current Suit: Hotline Firefly Pro (Couldn't afford the GT at the time ) My first overhead zip suit. It is great. A little heavier, but awesome nonetheless. It does the job, and very little water seeps through, especially compared to the Oneill back zip. I have been using it for about 6 months now, and it is still going strong. The only negatives I can think of is 1. The Key pocket is in an awkward place(just below the right shin), and the stitching around it is coming undone. It also does not have a connector to hook the key onto, and my key actually slipped out one time. (It must have come out of the pocket in the water and then slipped out on shore, cause fortunately I found the key). 2. The zipperless suit is a pain in the arse to take off on cold mornings. The hands are too numb and it takes some time.
Overall. I really like the hotline wetsuit, and I think I am going to try and buy either a 4/3 or the 3/2 GT for the rest of winter to keep me warm. I like the overhead zip, and I don't get any rash from it, like I did with the ONeill if I was out too long. I hope it will last me a couple years, as I hear is the norm of these Hotline suits.
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Voltaire77
Nep status
Reged: 12/01/05
Posts: 560
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What we need is a nice Wetsuit runway show. 
Show me one wetsuit review espousing the merits of x,y,z and I'll show you another that completely contradicts it.
Surfers are turning into huge pussies.
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Crush the vile thing.
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Hdip
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 04/23/05
Posts: 1111
Loc: Malibu, CA
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Quote:
I can get deals on Body Glove suits ... has anybody tried one?
I have last years body glove. One step below the top of the line which I think is the vapor (reviewed above). It's a warm suit lasted fine since last winter and is still in great shape. I don't like the neck closure on it though. If I surf for a marathon session it gives me a rash. Normal 2 hour sessions are fine though. I'm 6'1" 190 and the large tall fits really nicely but very snug.
It was cheap on whiskeymilitia. Bought it without even trying it on. Before I saw it I was about to have Boz send me a suit up to try one out. Might do that next time.
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SD_Equus_Asinus
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 04/21/04
Posts: 264
Loc: San Mucous
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Quote:
What we need is a nice Wetsuit runway show.
I just told waterbaby to get her fashion designer friend to get into the wetsuit biz. We should see the new spring collection showing up in vanity fair by january. The hot new color is tangerine. 
Quote:
Surfers are turning into huge pussies.
Word.
I remember surfing 5 years ago in SoCal in a flatlock stitched 3/2 with no booties. It was horrible. I got a little chilly a few times. I almost quit surfing altogether. 
-Internet Strength Man OUT! 
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"My words fly up, my thoughts remain below: Words without thoughts never to heaven go." - W.S.
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stu dog
Duke status
Reged: 01/15/03
Posts: 21760
Loc: CA
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upgraded both my 3/2 and 4/3 Xcel's last winter to the Infinity OS back zip from the $200 low end Xcel's. got both for $300 each with a little discount from the shop owner as we went to highschool together. the low ends aren't that good as the slick skin peals off the neck. The OS's ROCK! I'm too big & fat to contort myself into a front zip, but the OS provides a pretty damn mothrfuckin' good seal. like it's been said before the Xcel's material is PLENTY stretchy and softer than anything else on the market so the 4/3 is surprisingly not too restrictive in paddling. During the Jan07 So-Cal cold spell I was perfectly fine in the 4/3, except for my feet which I tried to not wear booties as any water in them throws off my feel. My only complaint with Xcel is their key pocket. On the OS it's placed really low on the back so after a winter dawn patrol session you get REALLY cold pulling off the suit all the way to your ass to reach the key.
Edited by stu dog (10/17/07 12:58 PM)
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J_P
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 08/09/05
Posts: 2916
Loc: Redondo
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just picked up a couple of the new drylocks. they're 3/2's and i've been fine in my 2/2 BG vapor here in the south bay. probably will use one of them in mexico this weekend.
also going to have a 4/3 phoenix from hotline to try out.
the drylocks are an upgrade from a 2yo psycho 2. way too heavy IMO. warm, but it always felt more like a 4/3.
jp
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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My excel was the most comfy suit I had. Too bad it fell apart.
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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Doug93003
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/08/03
Posts: 2138
Loc: Ventura
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Those drylocks are sweet. I put one next to a Hotline Phoenix and was amazed at how much more flexible it was.
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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: 17812
Loc: CA
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I've had front-zip 4/3 XCEL Infinity's for the past many years, and I like them alright. They fit me well, they're super flexy an warm and they last me almost 2 years (though my current suit is TRASHED).
Cons include the "under neck" (the neck hole you climb into, not the one that you stretch over your head) often rips or frays. Also, the tape starts to unravel pretty damn early, but I'm not sure if the tape really does anything much, anyway.
I looked at the new XCEL Drylocks and other than the fancy angled head/neck gusset and zipper, the main difference is that instead of just having the orange polypro material in the torso area of the suit (like in the regular Infinity's), the polypro material is pretty much on the interior of the entire suit. The kid at the shop swore this makes it way warmer, but who knows.
I'm going to check out the Patagonia front-zip's next month, and then will either by one of those or another XCEL Infinity, possibly the Drylock.
And, don't listen to anything that tenover says.
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East_Coaster
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 04/13/05
Posts: 166
Loc: NY
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2/2- Body glove Matrix long leg short sleeve 3 years running and still in good shape. Couple of holes that were caused by me but thats it. Stretchy enough but then again its a 2/2. Some neck rash on longer sessions if I dont use the belly jelly. Looking to replace it next year with the Vapor.
3/2 - I have a Xcel infiniti chest zip and a Billabong Solution Platinum. First the Xcel, Super warm super flexy never and problems with flushing or rash
holding up well into the second year.
Billabong solution Platinum- awesome, super flexy, super warm suit. No rash or flushing only problem for me is there is a little to much lenght in the torso area when sitting on my board which ends up holding water till I am up and riding. Im 5'11" #168.
Xcel infiniti winter suit 5/4/3 All I can say is Best winter suit by far for me and I have tried alot. Upper 30's low 40's water temps no problem
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KC_BRAINS
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 06/12/07
Posts: 180
Loc: Spain (Asturias)
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Well for some reason I have really bad luck with wetsuit. In the last years I have gone thru a couple.
First: Rip Curl F-Bomb 3/2 Chest Zip
Only lasted about a month. Liquid seal started coming apart.Constant flushes through the neck with duckdives and going over the falls. In my case it was horrible.
Second: Oneill Psycho2 3/2
Is still alive, but starting to show signs of decay after 6 months. Threas unraveling on the ankles, wrists and neck. I get water flushes when duckdiving. I try strangle myself with the next velcro but pretty much doesn´t work. Besides all that I really like the suit. Very confy and flexible.
Third: Oneill Gooru 3/2 Short Sleve
Well this one was very flexible and confortable but seens it was not sealed it got water thru the seams very easily. Really did not get much time to try since it got stolen half way through the summer. Damm Bastard (Well I piss on them like crazy).
Fourth: Xcel Infinity 4/3
This is the most recent one. I have used it about six times and it is really warm. Actually at this time of year I overheat with it. It is very strechy. Really like it, but I am a little concern that the neck seal is going to strech over time and I am going to get flushes constantly.
Fifth Quicksilver Cell 4/3
Not sure what Cell number it is (3,5,6) I got over internet new with tags but god knows how old. This suit has a very shitty neck seal (very simple, like in cheap wetsuit),but suprisingly is the one that flushes the least. It is super rigid and it hard to paddle with. I have it as a second option for days when the other 4/3 is still wet.
Well as you can all see I pretty much hate all wetsuits I have own. Not sure if its my fault or the wetsuits. Hopefully some day I find a wetsuit that I love. Wish I could get my hands on a Patagonia,but there is currently no distribution for them here in Europe. If I dont find love with a wetsuit soon I am going to have to move to the tropics 
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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Oh, and I ALWAYS rinse my suit out, and hang it up.
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Caelho
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 06/10/03
Posts: 3103
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don't know if this has been posted before but it has some reviews from customers who have the patagonia suit, from the blog 70%:
patagonia
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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centrlcoastkook
Billy Hamilton status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 1554
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Had an Xcel front zip 2 years ago. First the neck-hole started cracking and rippping..sent it in to get fixed..2 weeks later my foot went through the neoprene on one of the legs.
Got a BodyGlove Vapor. Awesome suit so far. Warm and seems durable. My only grip is the neck part is sort of restrictive.
(I love that tenover posts to tell us he's trying not to post anymore)
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The bosom of California yields her angels. It's the last purity this geography can claim -nep
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CAtoFLtoCA
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 08/10/06
Posts: 984
Loc: N. County SD
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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!!!
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Forever Stoked!!
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SurfnBMC
Grom
Reged: 01/20/06
Posts: 83
Loc: SNJ
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Wear a Quik 3/2 till the temps dip into the low 50s upper 40s. Go to a RipCurl 5/4/3 elastomax-II w/hood once winter sets in. Xcel boots from 5mm to 7mm, and I picked up some 7mm xcel mittens last winter that keep my hands toasty in February. Surf DelMarVa and NJ, winter water temps drop to the mid 30s with air temps anywhere from 20s to 40s. Thinking Xcel for my next new fullsuit purchase. Like their boots & gloves and hear their fullsuits are very good as well.
Aloha!
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goldenarmes
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/31/05
Posts: 3037
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ive been using BOZ wetsuits for the last 6 years or so and ive had 2 fullsuits. mine have lasted super long and a are verywarm and flexy. they are inexpensive but very good quality. mine have lasted between 2-3 years.
***disclaimer, i throw my suits in the wash for a rinse after every session and then hang to dry in my shower.***
i have found that not rinsing your suit out and/or leaving it out to dry in the sun are the fastest ways to ruin your wetsuit.
quicksilver was the worst wetsuit ive ever owned by far.
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humanzee
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 12/05/05
Posts: 472
Loc: got fog?
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Been using a Nineplus 3/2 for 10 months now. I didn't expect much from it since I heard they had zipper failures and you have to 'baby the neoprene'. I'm not so attentive to such niceties.
Anyway I have been very happy with it. It was not expensive. It is warm even in the SF area. No leaks yet but it does flush occasionally down the back in solid surf on duck-dives. It seems to be designed for someone with wider legs/hips/butt area because it used to crawl up my a$$ and get a little bunchy on the shoulders, but this has stopped happening this winter.
hmm, I thought I lost some weight this summer 
Another quirk about it is that it was very slippery against the board, which promoted some unneeded kookiness. But this seems to have left also. The rubber does get your wax dirty very quickly.
One of the nicest qualities is that it does not absorb water, which enables it to stay light and dry quickly. I've been pleasantly surprised, so much better than my last Excel but probably get another Hotline to put into the rotation.
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less barking and more wagging~
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J_P
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 08/09/05
Posts: 2916
Loc: Redondo
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Quote:
***disclaimer, i throw my suits in the wash for a rinse after every session and then hang to dry in my shower.***
do you actually run the washer?
for rinsing, i spray the hose into my rubbermaid surf bucket with the suit in there. probably 5 or 6 inches of water and then let it soak a couple hours.
when the sun goes far enough past that i can hang it in my hang up spot and have shade i let it dry. if it's warm, it's nearly dry by the next AM. mornings are getting wetter and chillier by the day.
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irreverent_clown
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 04/13/05
Posts: 515
Loc: Imperial Beach CA
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Got a 3/2 psycho 2 that's alright. KInda heavy but warm. Replaced the psycho 1 that was a super bitch to get out of.
Done with o'neill for a while.
Just bought a 2 mil excel full... pretty warm and stretchy.
Trunked it on sunday and plan on trunking it this weekend with the santa ana coming.
Gonna buy a matuse or patagonia next suit.
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goldenarmes
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/31/05
Posts: 3037
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Quote:
Quote:
***disclaimer, i throw my suits in the wash for a rinse after every session and then hang to dry in my shower.***
do you actually run the washer?
for rinsing, i spray the hose into my rubbermaid surf bucket with the suit in there. probably 5 or 6 inches of water and then let it soak a couple hours.
when the sun goes far enough past that i can hang it in my hang up spot and have shade i let it dry. if it's warm, it's nearly dry by the next AM. mornings are getting wetter and chillier by the day.
yeah...i live in a condo and have no "yard so to speak of...so in the wash it goes. no soap of course.
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J_P
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 08/09/05
Posts: 2916
Loc: Redondo
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if you're not noticing any discernible increase in wear and tear from the wash cycles, that might be a reasonably good idea.... might mix that in every so often.
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SurfZombie
Tom Curren status
Reged: 06/29/04
Posts: 14206
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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: 17812
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: 10001
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: 11821
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: 309
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: 5957
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: 2069
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: 5957
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: 2687
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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: 1349
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: 540
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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: 540
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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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R3W
Phil Edwards status
Reged: 02/19/02
Posts: 6132
Loc: Frisco
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Quote:
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.
They're definitely prone to compression leaks. Knee "pad" is non-existent (a change from a few years ago). I'm in SF and my older Psycho 4/3 has become my "warm water" wetsuit and my Xcel 4/3 has become my cold water suit.
BTW, I sent one Psycho back with a knee problem and they replaced the whole leg, free. Suit was over a year old.
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 5000
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Quote:
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.
Hotline released the original "Phoenix" suit a little bit too early. The neck stitching is a common problem. In fact, all unsold Phoenix suits from surf shops were returned so they could resolve this problem.
The "PhoenixX" (two x's) is the solution. It's a great suit, with Hotline's legendary durability. They loosened up the cut in the calves & thighs a touch, put in a different material in the forearms, and fixed the stitching in the neck. They really shot themselves in the foot by releasing the first gen. "phoenix" before solving those problems.
So, if anyone out there has a "Phoenix" suit, take it back to your surf shop and see if they can contact Hotline for you to either fix it or get you a "PhoenixX." You'll know which one you have by the lettering on the cuff -- there is an extra "X" on the newer suits.
As for the Freebird, I haven't used one but have heard good things from those who have. It's a price-point suit, but totally taped and front zip. That's pretty damn nice.
I'm still a Hotline fan, but this new Matuse suit I have continues to blow me away. Amazing product, from my perspective. If they made a front zip Matuse, I'd be done. So far, so good. But I'm only one season in. We'll see about durability.
-ShShSh
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Gone. Send hate mail to me at: ShShSh
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Kman
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 11/15/05
Posts: 211
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Quote:
Hotline released the original "Phoenix" suit a little bit too early. The neck stitching is a common problem. In fact, all unsold Phoenix suits from surf shops were returned so they could resolve this problem.
The "PhoenixX" (two x's) is the solution. It's a great suit, with Hotline's legendary durability. They loosened up the cut in the calves & thighs a touch, put in a different material in the forearms, and fixed the stitching in the neck. They really shot themselves in the foot by releasing the first gen. "phoenix" before solving those problems.
So, if anyone out there has a "Phoenix" suit, take it back to your surf shop and see if they can contact Hotline for you to either fix it or get you a "PhoenixX." You'll know which one you have by the lettering on the cuff -- there is an extra "X" on the newer suits.
-ShShSh
Thanks for the back ground on that. My plan is to take it back near the end of the winter season to have it fixed and and maybe I'll get lucky they'll just replace it with the newer version.
Kevin
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SouthCoastSurfer
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 02/23/07
Posts: 1931
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Oneill Heat 3/2:
Almost not even worth mentioning.
Xcel 4/3 Front Zip:
The only problems I had with this suit was that the 4/3 seems super bulky compared to other 4/3's I've worn. Also, the suit would shrink everytime I hung it up to drip dry so it was a pain in the ass getting it back on and paddling out .
RipCurl Fireskin 3/2:
Fell apart within 6 months. Seam came undone at the neck and it seemed that something new came unraveled everytime I wore it. Returned it under warranty and was sent a new suit after a 5 week wait - I bargained with the shop owner to trade me for a West 3/2 he had on the rack and he took me up on it.
West 3/2:
Most comfortable suit I've worn to date but after I broke it in it seems to keep me warm less & less. I baby this suit, spray it off in the tub after every wash and hang dry out of direct sunlight. It dries super slow, and the stitching from the top of the zipper to the top of the collar is coming undone. For warmer water (60*+) I can't complain but I'm sure I could say the same about a $100 aleeda suit.
West 4/3/2:
I don't know where the 4mm neoprene is but it isn't doing a very good job that's for sure. I've had to resort to wearing a long sleeve rash guard + booties to keep me warm down here in SD where the water has been 55* for the past three weeks. The pull over section to stop flushing works well for the back but it's pretty tight on my neck to the point where it's initially uncomfortable and the seam that connects the lower back to the rest of the suit has a hole so every surf I get a flush on both the 3/2 and the 4/3/2 as soon as I get into water higher than my waist.
I am seriously considering a Patagonia suit but I'd rather buy another surfboard instead. I may go to a Xcel 3/2 front-zip because I've been the most happy with their suits thus far. Plus they've removed the seam under the armpit that gave me a rash every session in the 3/2 FZ I wore 2 years ago. From the look of Matuse's size chart it doesn't look like they have a suit that would accomodate my size.
I'm 6,3" 200lbs and typically wear a L/T wetsuit, and I surf everyday there are waves. Sometimes twice a day if there are good waves on my days off.
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R_surf
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 08/23/06
Posts: 426
Loc: S. Cali , US
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I was going to give a full ShShSh style review after some more water time, but this should be ok.
I have the Hotline Freebird 4/3. I really like the suit, it is my first 4/3 as before that I was using a 3/2 throughout the year, but I decided it's time to splurge and stay warmer.
I bought this suit at the beginning of December. It was between the Freebird, or last years Xcel front zip. I never owned an XCEL (heard goood things about them though) and have a 3/2 Hotline Firefly Pro as my regular wetsuit. Given that I am a college student, and will be a student for quite some time more, I want a suit that I know will last, so I decided to stick with my Hotline. The Freebird keeps me nice and toasty, only thing is it is a little loose on me. I got a large, same size as my other Hotline, but this seems to be a little larger around the neck and shoulders. I thought a MEdium tall would probably be just right, but the ones I tried on(happend to be a Phoenix, because they didn't have any freebirds in that size) were as ShShSh said, extremely tight in the calves, as well as in the shoulders which I felt would restrict me greatly on paddling. I am about 6'1-6'2 (havent measured in years) and hover around 190-195 lbs and mainly surf LA County.
Pros: I was on a budget of 200$ for my wetsuit and this fit the bill great. Toasty Warm. Dries faster than my FIrefly. Stretchier than my Firefly (although I can't compare it to other 4/3s). I am hoping it will be as durable as my other suit (I will report back in a year to let you know if it is still keeping me warm).
The wetsuit does not produce any kind of rashing and none of the seams seem to restrict any of my movement.
Cons: Even though it does dry faster than my other suit, it still does not dry quickly, double sessions don't work unless I want to hop in a relatively soaking suit. But one day to dry is usually sufficient. My other suit believe it or not would take longer and after one day hanging would still be wet the next morning.
It could be the fact that it is a 4/3 but it is more tiring to paddle in. This was one of the first things I noticed when I used it, but through time I have gotten used to it. The Freebirds are NOT made in the USA, only the Phoenix(x)s are. I was a little disgruntled about this, but I needed a suit and could not afford the Phoenix. (Besides if I were to buy another wetsuit it would be from overseas anyways right?)
Another thing about the suit, is the left kneepad seems to go astray. From the thigh down it always wants to face outward. It usually only takes one fix and is fine.
I have used the suit several times and I love it. The only real problem I have with it is the neck and shoulders thing. I am thinking about getting it fitted, but it usually flushes only on the first duckdive out then its fine, but I thought I'd mention it.
Other than that it allows me to stay out too long for surf sessions and gets me behind in my school work!
Great Suit for the price. I also had an O'neill heat (around the same price range) and I feel this is a much much better suit for the price.
I have used this suit in SD about 2 weeks ago, and it was much too warm, I was sweating!
There might be some suits that are more flexible for a 4/3, but regardless I would certainly recommend this suit for somebody that needs a nice warm suit (and I would bet durable) for a good price. 
P.S. I think it looks pretty cool in all black.
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Whitewash_Kid
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 02/26/05
Posts: 376
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Quote:
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
I've got the same suit, and the same problem. I surfed for the first time in almost a year last week. Toasty warm, no flushing really, but I couldn't paddle for shyte! Alot of that has to do with being out of 'surf shape' but it felt like a straightjacket! Recommendations? I'm 6-2 and about 205.
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After you leave, you'll want to go back real bad. Then when you do, you'll remember why you left.
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Debaser
Miki Dora status
Reged: 05/20/03
Posts: 5319
Loc: SoCal
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I don't get cold as easy so I've been wearing this suit:
Rip Curl - E3 Bomb Chest Zip 3/2 Pro Model
Ummmmm can you say FLEXIBLE?????!!!!!
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"On a scale of 1 to Chris Brown, how mad is he?"
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ars
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 03/24/06
Posts: 195
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Phoenix Suits on Ebay
found these today. brand new, great price. i think their the the first gen phoenix, but i figure if anything goes wrong i can send it back to hotline, or might just try and send it to them right when i get it. i picked up a MS 4/3.
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20W-50 and blood
Duke status
Reged: 02/04/04
Posts: 16854
Loc: SOCAL
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quick cell.....great fin suit. odd thing though..for soe odd reason i cant figureout..it literally has stripped all teh hair off the sides of my ass cheeks...but it hasnt stripped it off anywhere else..
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Jesus was Mexican, Ronald Reagan was the devil, and the government is lying about 9-11.
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Dorado
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 04/25/07
Posts: 483
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ultimate fbomb, Im a NEast surfer and easy in and out , on the "warmer days " this suit feels like a 3/2 to me , in flex not warmth dead o winter NYC style not sure yet but like I said been warm ..... nothing worse than a winter suit you need to be a yogi to get out of 
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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I got a new XCEL infinity 4/3 front zip and it is ridiculously warm.
Water has been about 50 lately the suit is just as toasty as could be.
Stoked.
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tenover
Phil Edwards status
Reged: 01/17/03
Posts: 7132
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Been wearing the Patagonia backzip 2mm R2 suit all winter, 90% of the time in early morning sessions when the sun isn't up yet. I can't stand wearing booties, so besides my feet being a little chilly during those early morning sessions, I haven't been cold at all. 3 thumbs up for the 2mm Patagionia suits for SoCal winters.
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"It’s always better to feel good about what you did than what you haven’t done...." - Terry Martin
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goldenarmes
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/31/05
Posts: 3037
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2mm thats good to know....like you i cant handle booties either . might have to check patagonia out.
still as far as bang for the buck goes BOZ is tough to beat. killer customer service and a damn good traditional wetsuit. im really interested in the matuse wetsuits but they are going to have to last a couple seasons. i just finished my 3rd season in my BOZ and it's still holding up well. the only reason i would consider going with a boutique wetsuit would be a significant savings in weight and drying time.
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shiver_me_timbers
Miki Dora status
Reged: 03/20/06
Posts: 4655
Loc: The Gorge
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Quote:
quick cell.....great fin suit. odd thing though..for soe odd reason i cant figureout..it literally has stripped all teh hair off the sides of my ass cheeks...but it hasnt stripped it off anywhere else..
New category: "stripping hair off of ass cheeks"
If they made a suit that could remove back hair, that would be a selling point (for me, anyways). 
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BrownFish
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/04/05
Posts: 2687
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Quote:
the only reason i would consider going with a boutique wetsuit would be a significant savings in weight and drying time.
That is actually a pretty good selling point. My Matuse is so light when wet. I'm honestly shocked when I pick it up verses someone else's wet wetsuit. In my opinion, thats also the advantage of a Matuse over a Patagonia. The wool in the patagonia's take in water, and they are actually pretty heavy when wet. Matuse's are plenty warm without the wool, and the weight savings for a fatass like me is pretty key. Plus they dry out pretty quick, and thats hanging em from the waist, folded over, out of the sun. Just my 2 cents.
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www.brownfishhandplanes.com/
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goldenarmes
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/31/05
Posts: 3037
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im just going to see how they hold up. i need 2 seasons minimum out of a $500 wetsuits. plus, it would seem there isnt a size for the taller lankier guys like me.
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zawa2000
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 12/31/04
Posts: 332
Loc: Home of Bicycle Riding Winos
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Quote:
That is actually a pretty good selling point. My Matuse is so light when wet. I'm honestly shocked when I pick it up verses someone else's wet wetsuit. In my opinion, thats also the advantage of a Matuse over a Patagonia. The wool in the patagonia's take in water, and they are actually pretty heavy when wet. Matuse's are plenty warm without the wool, and the weight savings for a fatass like me is pretty key. Plus they dry out pretty quick, and thats hanging em from the waist, folded over, out of the sun. Just my 2 cents.
I wish the "Senor Eyepatch" people would start using this stuff soon or else I'm going to start boutiqing next fall.
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Ch-ch-ch-cheeeeeto
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 01/11/02
Posts: 1015
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Quote:
im just going to see how they hold up. i need 2 seasons minimum out of a $500 wetsuits. plus, it would seem there isnt a size for the taller lankier guys like me.
Mine has some durability issues. I got it in October and I've blown out both elbows along the seams - one I had repaired and it ripped again. Other than that, it's the best wetsuit I've ever worn - light, flexible, superwarm, comfortable, and quick to dry.
Sizing can be tough for us taller folks. Mine is slightly, although noticeably, short in the body. I can feel it in the neck.
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Law school sucks. Don't go.
Edited by Ch-ch-ch-cheeeeeto (01/26/08 12:28 AM)
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burnsey_vi
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/24/03
Posts: 2148
Loc: Shell Beach, Ca.
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Been wearing Physco 2's for a long time. I have a 3/2 and a 4/3. They last longer and are more comfortable than any other suit I've had. I'm 5'7" 180 - 185lbs...I wear a Large/Short and it fits well.
I've had Hotlines and they worked great too. Probably still be wearing them if one of my very closest friends didn't own a big surf shop that doesn't sell Hotlines but gives me cost on O'Neill.
I've had Rip Curls and usually had problems with them. But, if this H-Bomb thing turns out to be the real deal and I can surf through winter in a 2 mil, I'm in...
I've had Rip Curls and usually had problems
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Oh man...I don't even know what's goin' on
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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Quote:
Been wearing Physco 2's for a long time. I have a 3/2 and a 4/3. They last longer and are more comfortable than any other suit I've had. I'm 5'7" 180 - 185lbs...I wear a Large/Short and it fits well.
I've had Hotlines and they worked great too. Probably still be wearing them if one of my very closest friends didn't own a big surf shop that doesn't sell Hotlines but gives me cost on O'Neill.
I've had Rip Curls and usually had problems with them. But, if this H-Bomb thing turns out to be the real deal and I can surf through winter in a 2 mil, I'm in...
I've had Rip Curls and usually had problems
You know what kills me is that I haven't had a suit last nearly as long as my first generation psycho II and I've had a few brands since then including oneill's. That thing got me through almost two seasons with no leaks and the third I was fine except for early mornings. I wore it as a short sleeve full for the fourth year. That suit was about $279 at the time and personally I don't think the newer suits are any more comfortable or flexible; at least not noticeable. That's why I started this thread originally. I haven't posted in a while since I've been out for six weeks with an injury. My suits just so happen to be holding up great right now!
Sounds like all suits have issues and most take care of the customer, just some better than others. When my 400 dollar psycho II fell apart the first year I sent it back and they gave me a new one.
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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Mo_Fo
Kelly Slater status
Reged: 04/13/05
Posts: 7747
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I've also been wearing the psycho 2 suits for the past few years. They seem to be lasting for shorter periods of time over the last couple of years. It seems to me that I have had to buy a new 3/2 once a year, yet my 4/3 has lasted me for about 4 seasons now. I rinse my suits almost every surf and hang dry, so I'm good with them. This year I broke down and bought the 2mm Patagonia and I did eventually have to start wearing booties... in mid December. Unfortunately up here in the LA/Ventura county area I have had to slip back into my trusty 4/3 a few weeks ago. Once it dropped below 55 I couldn't hang in the line up very long and enjoy myself. I was grimacing that morning digging my old 4/3 psycho 2 out of the bottom bin. I figured it was going to just be worn out and cold. I was happy to find out how wrong I was. Pretty stoked that that old suit (4/3) was still warm after all these years even after being jaded with that new Patagonia for the past few months.
I gotta admit, I did get a lot of odd looks when I was paddling out in the San Diego area last September/October in my Patagonia suit. While they were everywhere up here back then, I felt like I was the only one wearing one down there. I would imagine that the suits popularity has gone up now that they have proven themselves.
As far as the matuse suit goes, the only two reasons I bought the Patagonia suit over the matuse, was the warranty and where they are made. I know that if in three years my suit starts falling apart; Patagonia will still be around and besides all their warranties are kick ass. I'm looking forward to eventually picking up a 3mm in the next couple of months as well to replace that old 4/3, but I'm not in a rush.
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"Your ego is not your amigo" ~Tony Alva
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yobro
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 11/08/06
Posts: 204
Loc: Santa Cruz
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I've had the Phoenixx for about 3 months now. By far the warmest, most flexible suit I've owned. Been out during the winter months in Santa Cruz and haven't been cold yet. Had a seam problem after the first session, tape on the inside busted apart. I took it into the outlet store and they repaired it that day!
Great suit and worth the money.
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Teahupoo2000
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 01/29/02
Posts: 3467
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Quiksilver Cell 3/2 Cell 6
Wow...Most comfortable and warmest wetsuit ever. Not bad for the price of 150 Dollars... Keep them coming quiksilver.
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Qaudrofinia
Nep status
Reged: 09/26/07
Posts: 623
Loc: Queef Reef
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I'm alternating between an Oneill Psycho 2 4/3 and a Patagonia 2mm backzip (both comboed with 5mm boots and 1.5 mm gloves)in 48 degree water and not seeing much of a difference, except the price tags. But PATs lifetime warrantee is worth it. My Rip Curl was garbage this year MF elasto model.
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...ride the big one.
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hmmm
Rabbitt Bartholomew status
Reged: 01/13/02
Posts: 9800
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this keeps me warm and loose
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Cool waves and shaka-to-ya-frada-cause-youre-nothing-but-a-bradda
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radness
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 09/02/06
Posts: 204
Loc: New England
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Quote:
I'm alternating between an Oneill Psycho 2 4/3 and a Patagonia 2mm backzip (both comboed with 5mm boots and 1.5 mm gloves)in 48 degree water and not seeing much of a difference, except the price tags. But PATs lifetime warrantee is worth it. My Rip Curl was garbage this year MF elasto model.
So a Patagonia 2mm is just as warm as 4/3??? Holy sh#t! 
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wavekemist
Grom
Reged: 09/11/07
Posts: 31
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Ive been using a hotline that my parents bought me for Xmas just over a year ago. It was a 3/2 front zip with Rasta coloring on the legs. My mom said that surfers are so boring with thier black wetsuits  In just over a year all the seams are starting to leak, and the stitching at the end of the legs and arms are unstringing themselves. It not very warm anymore plain and simple. So i bought a XCEL infinity 4/3 front zip from whiskeymilitia for $150 and testdrove it yesterday. Watertemp 55º, airtemp 60º. The thing was superwarm, almost hot! no water got in through the neck like the hotline, and the frontzip is engineered a little better than the hotline(lower on the chest so that it pulls the wetsuit from chest rather than shoulders). There are no seams below the nea or outside the elbow, so the stitching problem cannot happen. Overall im happy with the buy, especially at the price. Ill update in a year from now. 
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Uhhh, I came alone.
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featherboa
Nep status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 613
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Is this THE Great Unbiased Westuit Review thread? I'm bumping it so I can post in later. I ordered a Phoenixx 3/2.
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geester
Grom
Reged: 06/02/08
Posts: 60
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Was ready to put in the order for the Phoenixx, but no more sizes left (any mediums). Dang
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featherboa
Nep status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 613
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I went for a small tall. i hope it fits
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Q_Surf
Tom Curren status
Reged: 05/05/03
Posts: 14509
Loc: world's largest oregon
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Quote:
Quiksilver Cell 3/2 Cell 6
Wow...Most comfortable and warmest wetsuit ever. Not bad for the price of 150 Dollars... Keep them coming quiksilver.
+1 for the cell 4/3 and i'll add it's definitely the longest lasting suit i've had too (i've had two)
haven't tried patagucci or mateuse, yet.
****************************************************
HOOD: i wear oneil's 1mm rashy w/ sharkskin hoody attached. effectively makes my 4/3 work like an optional hooded 5/4. the hood, being separate, allows for much better head rotation than a built-in.
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Nature's finest transportation
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wildingb
Grom
Reged: 07/28/08
Posts: 149
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Mitchs in La Jolla got some new Matuse suits in yesterday while i was in the shop. I am 175 5'9" and picked up the 4/3/2 LS - it felt pretty tight but apparently that is normal. The batwing things felt really fragile, but again apparently they last. I certainly hope this wetsuit lasts for me...
You guys better not all be paid employees of matuse - 500 is a lot for a suit!
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FishFace
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 08/07/09
Posts: 2945
Loc: Del Mar, CA
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I have been wearing body glove suits for the past few years. Mainly because I can get an incredible deal on them but, they have been the best suits I've ever owned. I currently have a 3/2 vapor. Its as warm as a 4/3 and super stretchy. It repels water and has fluid sealed seams. Feels like a dry suit. There is a key pocket in the forearm as well. This vapor is the best suit i've ever owned.
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saucerboy
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 08/10/09
Posts: 153
Loc: Santa Cruz
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FWIW, I bought a vintage 3/2/2 from the Matuse site a couple months ago. The other day I noticed that the seam joining the smooth skin and neoprene right around the armpit is coming apart. There is a half inch or so spot under both arms that is separating. On the inside of the suit there are a couple spots where the tape lifting up and starting to peel. It's just a quarter inch or so and only at a place where the tape overlaps but still, it's there.
I've used the suit roughly 20 times since purchasing it. I emailed Matuse yesterday to make sure it's covered under the warranty before mailing it back. I haven't had a response yet. I'll call later. I'm assuming it is and they'll fix. Still a concern that I'm seeing that wear after only two months.
Edited by saucerboy (10/06/09 12:55 PM)
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nkpheous
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 04/07/08
Posts: 2986
Loc: Huntington Beach
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i'm not sure if you're talking about the same area but on both my 07 and 08 matuse 3/2 there is a small tear right under the arm where the panels meet. its an area where on the inside of the suit it is just stitching, not welded seams. the stitching looks to be pulling apart. i've sent them in, had them repaired and both have come apart after one session. i've repaired it again myself and it seems to be holding up so far. still the best suits i've owned for fit and flexibility.
does anyone have the new 4/3/2 from matuse? one of the improvements is satin seal taping. i don't know what that is. maybe a dumb question but can anyone tell me as the website doesn't describe it. i'm assuming this is something new in place of welded seams
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saucerboy
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 08/10/09
Posts: 153
Loc: Santa Cruz
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Yep, that's the spot. I just checked the suit and there is only stitching on the inside, not welded seam. The stitching still seems solid on my suit for now.
How did you repair it, just basic wetsuit cement?
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VaB
Billy Hamilton status
Reged: 11/14/04
Posts: 1648
Loc: Virginia Beach, VA
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Oneill:
VERY DISSAPOINTED. KNEES TURN INTO MUSH IN <1 YEAR.
I'm sure out in california where you wear one wetsuit for most of the year a single year warrenty is great but out here on the east coast, where, especially in jersey we go from trunking it in the summer to a full 6/4 hooded in the winter you only get a few months at each thickness. this means your one year calander warrenty expires after only 3 months of use... maybe 5 months for a 4/3.
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wildingb
Grom
Reged: 07/28/08
Posts: 149
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Quote:
i'm not sure if you're talking about the same area but on both my 07 and 08 matuse 3/2 there is a small tear right under the arm where the panels meet. its an area where on the inside of the suit it is just stitching, not welded seams. the stitching looks to be pulling apart. i've sent them in, had them repaired and both have come apart after one session. i've repaired it again myself and it seems to be holding up so far. still the best suits i've owned for fit and flexibility.
does anyone have the new 4/3/2 from matuse? one of the improvements is satin seal taping. i don't know what that is. maybe a dumb question but can anyone tell me as the website doesn't describe it. i'm assuming this is something new in place of welded seams
The new matuse i got yesterday has some silver coloured tape over the seams on the inside. Presumably this is the satin seal taping. I'll check under the arms tonight. I haven't had a matuse before so i can't compare the new suit to the older versions. I won't able to review this suit for a while as it is way too warm in SD for a full suit at the moment...
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wildingb
Grom
Reged: 07/28/08
Posts: 149
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Quote:
Oneill:
VERY DISSAPOINTED. KNEES TURN INTO MUSH IN <1 YEAR.
I'm sure out in california where you wear one wetsuit for most of the year a single year warrenty is great but out here on the east coast, where, especially in jersey we go from trunking it in the summer to a full 6/4 hooded in the winter you only get a few months at each thickness. this means your one year calander warrenty expires after only 3 months of use... maybe 5 months for a 4/3.
I heard the patagonia suits have a lifetime guarantee. so that might solve your problem. I didn't get a patagonia as the wool put me off...
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nkpheous
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 04/07/08
Posts: 2986
Loc: Huntington Beach
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Quote:
Oneill:
VERY DISSAPOINTED. KNEES TURN INTO MUSH IN <1 YEAR.
1 year? your lucky. mine disintegrated (knees)in 5 sessions. had it repaired 4 times. still has a big hole in the knee
never again
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VaB
Billy Hamilton status
Reged: 11/14/04
Posts: 1648
Loc: Virginia Beach, VA
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Quote:
1 year? your lucky. mine disintegrated (knees)in 5 sessions. had it repaired 4 times. still has a big hole in the knee
never again
Same. Switched to Boz- was a little leaky around the neck and flushed but warm as hell. A very strange combo of keeping me warm but leaky. Warm through a NJ winter. Still, through it all xcel seems to dominate the NE lineups. I'm not saying, I'm just saying..
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Mr Doof
Tom Curren status
Reged: 01/23/02
Posts: 10408
Loc: San Francisco, CA
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About the Boz wetsuit I purchased last year:
Pluses:
Fits great in chest, shoulders, neck, armpits, and arms; no binding at all.
Inexpensive.
Wearing well.
Minuses:
Short legs even on a Large Tall size...I tire of the droopy drawers look, at least until the wetsuit rides up and over the booties. Only then the low crotch goes away. I guess I could just not wear booties.
Tight from the gut down.
Neck flushes more than other hoodless wetsuits I've owned. Ok for now, but come late November...
Had to mail-order...to me, wetsuits are a try before you buy deal.
Verdict:
Unless I go custom with Boz or sell them locally, this one is my last one.
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tacos
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 02/12/06
Posts: 2352
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Quote:
Quote:
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.
Hotline released the original "Phoenix" suit a little bit too early. The neck stitching is a common problem. In fact, all unsold Phoenix suits from surf shops were returned so they could resolve this problem.
The "PhoenixX" (two x's) is the solution. It's a great suit, with Hotline's legendary durability. They loosened up the cut in the calves & thighs a touch, put in a different material in the forearms, and fixed the stitching in the neck. They really shot themselves in the foot by releasing the first gen. "phoenix" before solving those problems.
So, if anyone out there has a "Phoenix" suit, take it back to your surf shop and see if they can contact Hotline for you to either fix it or get you a "PhoenixX." You'll know which one you have by the lettering on the cuff -- there is an extra "X" on the newer suits.
As for the Freebird, I haven't used one but have heard good things from those who have. It's a price-point suit, but totally taped and front zip. That's pretty damn nice.
I'm still a Hotline fan, but this new Matuse suit I have continues to blow me away. Amazing product, from my perspective. If they made a front zip Matuse, I'd be done. So far, so good. But I'm only one season in. We'll see about durability.
-ShShSh
I know i'm quoting a post that's a bit dated (1/24/08 or something. )
Anyways ShShSh if you're reading this, is the seat or "butt" leak part of the problem that Phoenix has?
The seat seam of my Phoenix leaks pretty bad. I just assumed (without actually checking) that I had a PhoenixX, but I just looked and it's a regular Phoenix.
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Slyda
Grom
Reged: 04/18/05
Posts: 131
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anybody tried out the new Hotline suits? The Reflex or Element?
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lorcar
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 1016
Loc: flatMed
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Hi everyone.
I am 5'11'' and 154 pounds (basically, slim with arms and legs a bit longer than average, I have had always troubles in buying suits/shirts/etc). I have so far a Ripcurl Classic 4.3, M size that fits pretty well. It was my first wetsuit, and to be honest I haven't used it much. Was thinking to buy a lighter wetsuit now. In a Ripcurl shop few weeks ago I tried the E-bomb 3.2 chestzip, M size (never tried a wetsuit so flexible before!). It was perfect in my opinion, but the neck was a bit tight. So I was thinking that probably the backzip would be better since you can adjust the neck strap. But I thought that the chestzip would block more water, and also the guy at the shop told me that the neck would become a bit looser. What do you think?
Also, I read most of this thread, and read many complaints about Ripcurl durability. So I was thinking to switch to Xcel Drylock 3.2, but I am a bit skeptical of buying a wetsuit I havent' tried on. Also which size should I buy? according to Xcel website, I dont' know which one it would be better, if the M or the MS. Any suggestion here? how do the Xcel fit compared to Ripcurl? Is it that true that they are very heavy as I read here?
thanks in advance
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NorCrusty
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 10/16/09
Posts: 205
Loc: Santa Cruz
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It seems the Ripcurls have gone larger in the legs this year than in seasons past- their chest zips are a great design, it takes about 2-3 sessions to get the hang of entry/exit but the added comfort, flexibility and flush protection is great!
Do yourself a favor and find a dealer that carries West wetsuits. They're excellent, warmer than RipCurls because they use Limestone-based neoprene, super soft and great stretch aaaaand they cost about $100 less for their top line suit (Lotus) Got mine for $289- not on sale. For the price, comfort and performance (they suck less water and are indeed lighter than petroleum-based suits) I don't see how you can go wrong. Try a medium, son.
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lorcar
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 1016
Loc: flatMed
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Quote:
Do yourself a favor and find a dealer that carries West wetsuits. Try a medium, son.
thanks a lot. I was indeed also considering the West as I read greatest reviews (as for the Xcel). Would you suggest chestzip or backzip?
Also, you say "M" size...looking at their website I think I have the usual problem: my weight is just at the lower bound of the range for this size (70-77 Kg). And I fear it will be abundant or not tight enough. I had this problem in Brazil: I bought this
http://www.truzz.com.br/product_info.php?products_id=85
fantastic neoprene, M size seemed to fit well, the S was too tight and the shop obviously didn't carry the MS, that would have been perfect. It is a bit loose in the water, and it keeps coming up, so i was a bit upset.
On the contrary, the Xcel MS is perfect on the weight range, but short in height....  
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lorcar
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 1016
Loc: flatMed
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Quote:
...looking at their website I think I have the usual problem
actually this is not true: at first I went on the Italian West website, but checking their catalogue and international site it seems the M is perfect. How weird...
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stu dog
Duke status
Reged: 01/15/03
Posts: 21760
Loc: CA
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surflie has their 2009 wetsuit guide
http://www.surfline.com/surf-news/2009-wetsuit-preview-buyers-guide_30884/1/
not sure what to make of all it. lot of buzz words and fancy names by each company for the same design and materials.
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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I'm glad this thread is getting some love again.
Update for me I guess:
Once season on the 4/3 drylock. Best suit ever owned, no leaks, buttery soft, and very warm. It got worn on the cold dawn patrol days and a couple of visits to Central CA. I was never cold and there was no flushing. Outside seams started to unravel (very minor) so I decided to send it back while under warranty. They took it and fixed it no questions asked.
Picked up a regular infiniti on Whiskey awhile back but I've only worn it a few times. So far so good but every once in awhile it flushed through the neck. Maybe as the suit breaks in a little more everything will settle and that will end.
Drylock is definitely more comfy than the regular infiniti. If I had the option to pay full price for either, I would pay more for the infiniti.
I'm good on wetsuits for awhile but will try on a Matuse when the time comes. If Xcel made a suit that dried quickly I'd pay almost anything for one. That fricken comfortable.
I guess my only complaint about the Xcels is I wish they'd make the ankles tighter.
There's SBD's Fall 09 update. I'll definitely have another at the end of winter, if not sooner.
Keep posting, I think it's informative which is why I started this thread in the first place.
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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Havoc
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/10/07
Posts: 10001
Loc: The OC Life
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Havoc wetsuit update (inspired by SBD  ),
Last season and a half I've purchased a 3/2 xcel infinity drylock, a 3mill chest zip patagonia (trade in replacement to my earlier one), and a 2 mil xcel infinity short arm full.
I have no complaints whatsoever with the xcels except that I got a bit cold last winter in only a 3/2 during that super cold water run we had. Very stoked on the drylock suit. I wore the shortarm during many of my dp sess's this spring/summer/fall and continue to wear it now, tons of sesssions, no leaks, super flexy, and warm, no complaints and it's held up well with tons of sessions on it.
Like SBD said about these suits, they are buttery soft, flexy, and comfortable. The only drawback (like the above poster said) is that they take like FOREVER to dry and can get mildewy if you're not super vigilent flipping that sucker inside out pronto the next day.
I still do want to try a matuse (had a short arm full and liked it), but that whole neck rash thing many guys are talking about is a turn off. My patagonia chest zip sucks and I only had mabe 6 sessions with it and I was getting horrinle neck rashes and the wool soaked in so much water I felt like 20 lbs heavier. If I could, I'd take it back. I purchase a new suit each season, usually on sale, if I get 2 out of one, then I'm stoked. These things wear out fast so I just see them as a maintanence item.
Looking to get a 4/3 xcel later, maybe towards x-mas.
Like with all these things YMMV.
Havoc
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"motions of rippage is initated by the hind leg"-Northern_Shores
"Lemme know. I got endson gas"-20W
Edited by Havoc (10/19/09 07:55 PM)
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RickVTA
Nep status
Reged: 05/18/09
Posts: 640
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I bought the Boz Comp 3.5 2.5 last year with the INCA rubber. By far the warmest lightest suit I've ever had.
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goldenarmes
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/31/05
Posts: 3037
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Quote:
I bought the Boz Comp 3.5 2.5 last year with the INCA rubber. By far the warmest lightest suit I've ever had.
couldnt agree more. they dont get much love because of the too good to be true prices and anti hype. they make performance suits that LAST.
are they pretty? no.
all that slick skin stuff wears out and cracks (micro cracks) and allows the cold in. Boz suits have titanium panels on both sides of the suit for more protection.
the funny thing is boz was using what matuse is currently using like 5 years ago....and moved away from the limestone for a reason.
i'll take function over fashion everytime. the matuse suits are easily the best looking suits on the market and im sure work great for 1 season but i just cant justify the $$$
Edited by goldenarmes (10/19/09 09:21 PM)
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shiver_me_timbers
Miki Dora status
Reged: 03/20/06
Posts: 4655
Loc: The Gorge
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update on my new Hotline PhoenixX 3/2 purchase. Ordered it right before my Oz/NZ trip. I wore it in Sydney and south, but could have gotten away with a 2mm short arm fullsuit. Maybe not. The PhoenixX is warmer than I thought it would be. Great fit, stretch, and felt only minor irritation after surfing for 2 hours. I had minor flushing in the neck but that's probably because my neck is thinner than most people my size. In NZ I could have worn it, but opted for my 4/3 because I wasn't sure how cold it would be.
For $200 on sale, I think this suit will get me through the winter and next spring/summer just fine. I should be gainfully employed by then and will likely purchase another 3/2 next fall.
My Xcel 4/3 infiniti drylock continues to work well, despite my scrawny neck flushing almost every time I duck dive. I probably need to have it tailored, and once that happens the suit will be fine for the rest of this winter.
My O'neil 3/2 Psycho II leaves a solid black ring of rubber around my neck every time I wear it. I have to use baby oil to remove the black ring. Other than that, the suit has held up OK.
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"Not what we have but what we enjoy, constitutes our abundance." - John Petit-Senn
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NorCrusty
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 10/16/09
Posts: 205
Loc: Santa Cruz
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Quote:
Quote:
Do yourself a favor and find a dealer that carries West wetsuits. Try a medium, son.
thanks a lot. I was indeed also considering the West as I read greatest reviews (as for the Xcel). Would you suggest chestzip or backzip?
Also, you say "M" size...looking at their website I think I have the usual problem: my weight is just at the lower bound of the range for this size (70-77 Kg). And I fear it will be abundant or not tight enough. I had this problem in Brazil: I bought this
http://www.truzz.com.br/product_info.php?products_id=85
fantastic neoprene, M size seemed to fit well, the S was too tight and the shop obviously didn't carry the MS, that would have been perfect. It is a bit loose in the water, and it keeps coming up, so i was a bit upset.
On the contrary, the Xcel MS is perfect on the weight range, but short in height....
I went chest zip, but then again, I always go chest zip.
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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Quote:
Quote:
I bought the Boz Comp 3.5 2.5 last year with the INCA rubber. By far the warmest lightest suit I've ever had.
couldnt agree more. they dont get much love because of the too good to be true prices and anti hype. they make performance suits that LAST.
are they pretty? no.
all that slick skin stuff wears out and cracks (micro cracks) and allows the cold in. Boz suits have titanium panels on both sides of the suit for more protection.
the funny thing is boz was using what matuse is currently using like 5 years ago....and moved away from the limestone for a reason.
i'll take function over fashion everytime. the matuse suits are easily the best looking suits on the market and im sure work great for 1 season but i just cant justify the $$$
I forgot to mention Boz as a possibility. Harry showed me the new comp suits about 6 months ago when I picked up a farmer john from him and the fullsuit seemed like it weighed as much as a vest
The only thing holding me back from Boz is the zipper. The damn thing just digs into the neck. Once that's changed (if it does change) I'm on it.
I know he'll make a front zip but even he says they won't last as long. Maybe he'll come up with a Drylock type front zip that would work. I hope he does, cause he'd get my business. He respects Xcels so hopfully....
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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RickVTA
Nep status
Reged: 05/18/09
Posts: 640
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Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
I bought the Boz Comp 3.5 2.5 last year with the INCA rubber. By far the warmest lightest suit I've ever had.
couldnt agree more. they dont get much love because of the too good to be true prices and anti hype. they make performance suits that LAST.
are they pretty? no.
all that slick skin stuff wears out and cracks (micro cracks) and allows the cold in. Boz suits have titanium panels on both sides of the suit for more protection.
the funny thing is boz was using what matuse is currently using like 5 years ago....and moved away from the limestone for a reason.
i'll take function over fashion everytime. the matuse suits are easily the best looking suits on the market and im sure work great for 1 season but i just cant justify the $$$
I forgot to mention Boz as a possibility. Harry showed me the new comp suits about 6 months ago when I picked up a farmer john from him and the fullsuit seemed like it weighed as much as a vest
The only thing holding me back from Boz is the zipper. The damn thing just digs into the neck. Once that's changed (if it does change) I'm on it.
I know he'll make a front zip but even he says they won't last as long. Maybe he'll come up with a Drylock type front zip that would work. I hope he does, cause he'd get my business. He respects Xcels so hopfully....
After my first session in the Boz I had a sore spot on the back of my neck from the zipper. Since then I made sure the neck seal was pulled up past where the zipper ends and I've never felt it again.
Another plus is the amount of size combinations BOZ has. You're sure to get a suit that fits great. The new rubber is so flexible you don't even feel the suit when it is dry. Really smooth and light.
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sdsurfrat
Billy Hamilton status
Reged: 06/02/08
Posts: 1590
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I love my OG Matuse 4/3/2, almost the whole upper body is gucci smooth skin rubber. That suit is in nearly perfect condition and ready to go into it's third season.
Only downside with this one is loose fitting ankles.
Superwarm, ultraflexible, soaks up little to no water.
I did get another 4/3/2 Matuse last year. This one is the vintage 4/3/2 still left if they have your size. Fantastic suit. Has less smoothie rubber. (and the 2009/2010 4/3/2 has even less smoothie than this..) For Socal these suits provide me with the motivational level to charge any early morning session and know I will be super warm and comfy during the coldest winter months. I'm set with 4/3/2's for this season.
The Matuse 3/2's rock also. Just got a vintage 3/2 as a freshie but have not worn it yet. Still wearing the 2Mil SSFull Matuse they rock, again my OG is the nicest one. The SSFull I got last year is nowhere near as nice as the OG. (not as much Hydrosilk) I did get the weird neck rash but only with my 3/2 and it was gone in a week. Maybe it was the velcro rubbing and I was not used to the neck closure I'm thinking..
I've pretty much tried out all the wetsuit brands.
Overall I would not use anything else.
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Oceanslide
Miki Dora status
Reged: 03/04/08
Posts: 5249
Loc: Oceanside, CA
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Have a Matuse 2 mil shortsleave full ("Vintage")and have
worn it quite a bit now. REALLY comfy suit, no issues with
any neck rash like a few have mentioned. A tiny bit of
leaking through the zipper, but not a big deal as I wouldn't
wear it in super cold water anyway. I really like it and
wouldn't mind trying a fullsuit.
Have a newish Xcel Infinity chest zip 3/2 that is also
really comfy, but going from the Matuse 2 mil to that, it
feels really thick and cumbersome, even though the Xcel is
very soft and smooth. A couple drips coming through the
seem in the arse already without too many sessions, plus
the neck, right where the taped seems end, is already
starting to come apart a bit. Will send it in if it gets
worse. My biggest complaint about Xcels is that they take
FOREVER to dry and really soak up water and become heavy
when compared to the Matuse, which is incredibly light
even when soaking wet.
My next suit will be a Boz 4/3 back-zip. Haven't decided
on the Thermoboz or Comp, but the materials are super nice
that I saw, Harry is a class act, and the price (for what
you get) can't be beat.
One question for those of you that
have one...do they dry faster than most other suits (ie:
soak up less water)?
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"Surfing reminds us of how good life is."
Oceansliding
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rocferd
Nep status
Reged: 02/21/08
Posts: 754
Loc: Inland South Bay San Diego/The...
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Quote:
Quote:
I bought the Boz Comp 3.5 2.5 last year with the INCA rubber. By far the warmest lightest suit I've ever had.
couldnt agree more. they dont get much love because of the too good to be true prices and anti hype. they make performance suits that LAST.
are they pretty? no.
all that slick skin stuff wears out and cracks (micro cracks) and allows the cold in. Boz suits have titanium panels on both sides of the suit for more protection.
the funny thing is boz was using what matuse is currently using like 5 years ago....and moved away from the limestone for a reason.
i'll take function over fashion everytime. the matuse suits are easily the best looking suits on the market and im sure work great for 1 season but i just cant justify the $$$
Like I've mentioned before in previous threads, I really have no need or much desire to wear anything other than Boz suits. They fit me well, are as warm/flexible as I need a suit to be, and are priced excellent. I really don't understand any of the complaints about leaks and flushing, as they seem to have no affect on the warmth provided. I recall someone from the East Coast mentioning how his Boz suite leaked more than other popular brand suits he owned, but yet was as warm or warmer. Maybe if I didn't live in San Diego, I would wear other suits. Being able to go to Harry's house and check suits out makes things very convenient. As long as the quality of the suits do not decline, I will continue to be a loyal customer. However, I am curious about Axxe & Cyber suits, but their price is a bit of an obstacle; for the price of their suits, I would rather get a new board. Wait, almost 2 new boards in some cases.
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tacos
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 02/12/06
Posts: 2352
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Quote:
Quote:
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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.
Hotline released the original "Phoenix" suit a little bit too early. The neck stitching is a common problem. In fact, all unsold Phoenix suits from surf shops were returned so they could resolve this problem.
The "PhoenixX" (two x's) is the solution. It's a great suit, with Hotline's legendary durability. They loosened up the cut in the calves & thighs a touch, put in a different material in the forearms, and fixed the stitching in the neck. They really shot themselves in the foot by releasing the first gen. "phoenix" before solving those problems.
So, if anyone out there has a "Phoenix" suit, take it back to your surf shop and see if they can contact Hotline for you to either fix it or get you a "PhoenixX." You'll know which one you have by the lettering on the cuff -- there is an extra "X" on the newer suits.
As for the Freebird, I haven't used one but have heard good things from those who have. It's a price-point suit, but totally taped and front zip. That's pretty damn nice.
I'm still a Hotline fan, but this new Matuse suit I have continues to blow me away. Amazing product, from my perspective. If they made a front zip Matuse, I'd be done. So far, so good. But I'm only one season in. We'll see about durability.
-ShShSh
I know i'm quoting a post that's a bit dated (1/24/08 or something. )
Anyways ShShSh if you're reading this, is the seat or "butt" leak part of the problem that Phoenix has?
The seat seam of my Phoenix leaks pretty bad. I just assumed (without actually checking) that I had a PhoenixX, but I just looked and it's a regular Phoenix.
bumping this out of curiosity.
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rocferd
Nep status
Reged: 02/21/08
Posts: 754
Loc: Inland South Bay San Diego/The...
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My next suit will be a Boz 4/3 back-zip. Haven't decided
on the Thermoboz or Comp, but the materials are super nice
that I saw, Harry is a class act, and the price (for what
you get) can't be beat.
One question for those of you that
have one...do they dry faster than most other suits (ie:
soak up less water)?
The 4/3 Thermoboss I picked up this past Jan. seems to dry much faster than my older Thermoboss suits. I don't know how it compares to other brands though, because I've exclusively worn Boz suits for the last four years.
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lorcar
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 1016
Loc: flatMed
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so at the end today I was able to try on two different wetsuits I never tried before: the Lotus West chestzip 4.3, size M, and the Oneill Psycho2 backzip 3.2 size M as well.
The West left me (5'11'', 155lb - 181cm, 70kg) with a lot of "empty" space on my belly and back, so I figured out these
2 little sacks would become full of cold water! Entering the wetsuit was a nightmare. I had to call the guy to help me enter my right arm, as I was too scared to break the wetsuit apart. It was really a mess, much more difficult than entering the Ripcurl Ebomb Chestzip I tried few weeks ago. And getting out was difficult as well. The guy said it's just a matter of getting used to it, but I didn't think it was practical, and I wonder how long can the material last when you have to pull it so much just to enter and exit it. Nothing to say about the neoprene, really flexible.
Entering the well-renowned Oneill Psycho 2 was a cup of tea compared to the West. I found the material very flexible as well but at the same time I found it difficult to make it move over the skin: I dont know how to explain this feeling,
but it was as if it was too tight to pull it along. I mean, I had to work a bit harder to pull it above my legs and arms. I liked feeling my wrists and ankles really really sealed, I felt like no water can flush in from there. I was surprised to see such a short zip, but this is the zen zipless system after all. Also the neck was a surprise: definitely shorter than other wetsuits, and gusseted:
although you can close it as you want using the velcro making it looser or tighter, i didn't feel it very protected so I guess you have to make the batwing coming out a bit or use a lycra.
At the end I think I would like to try the West 3.2 MS, but also will read some more review of the Oneill Psyco 2.
Also, the price of the West was not at all much cheaper than the Oneill, just few euros.
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Tanque
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 06/02/06
Posts: 294
Loc: 619
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I purchased the Rip Curl F-Bomb 3/2 Chest Zip earlier this year on sale and have just now worn it twice and I HATE it. I'm 6'3 225 and the legs are sooo tight especially in the seem that runs above the knee, that I can't stand it. I have exclusively worn Quiksilver wetsuits for probably the last 8 years, and I only bought this one because of the price. The overall fit of the rest of the suit is good, and the top half is super flexy, but I don't think I can get past the fit on the bottom half.
Not sure what the market for used suits is, but I'm probably going to have to try and sell this thing. Back to the drawing board I guess...
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San Gabriel Valley local
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 11/14/02
Posts: 1888
Loc: San Gabriel Valley, CA
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I bought an O'Neill Psycho 2 3/2 last fall and when new, it was warm, flexible, did not flush, and did not trickle. The fluid seams split several times, in the same and different spots, however, and it was in for warranty repairs 3 times, for about 7-8 weeks. It's been a little over a year now and it's springing leaks all over mostly where the fluid seams are coming apart but also where the external fabric is tearing. I'm really careful with my wetsuits, and this one has fallen apart faster, with less use, than any I've had in almost 30 years of surfing. It smells worse too. For me it's an A in design, B- for customer service/warranty repairs, and D- for materials/construction.
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nkpheous
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 04/07/08
Posts: 2986
Loc: Huntington Beach
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lorcal, if i were you i'd stay away from the oniell psycho2 suits and go with the psycho1. i had the same problems with mine P2 as sangabrielvalleylocal. unbelievably poor suit due mostly to the double fluid seams and lack of stitching. the psycho 1 is lighter, less expensive and more durable than the 2. just my opinion. i have 4/3 and 3/2 psycho 1 suits that are 5 years old and in better condition than my 1 year old P2 3/2 and 4/3. i would have bought new ones a while back but for some retarded reason oniell doesn't offer P1's in xls anymore 
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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Heavyfooted
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 10/17/06
Posts: 2717
Loc: Orange County
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Quote:
Just used my 5/4/3 Matuse today at LA's coldest point. Strong offshore winds and long waits for the swingers from the North swell. After 3 hours, I never overheated or got cold. Not leaks, tho a drop would get in my neck from time to time. No big deal. The suit is so light in and out of the water and it's very easy to paddle in. The torso is a little stiff due to the 5mm rubber and batwing, no biggie. I'll just say this is the best coldwater suit I've ever used.
5/4/3 in S. California? WTF? You are a sliver of a man and your heart pumps puppy piss. Man up. Central coast guys would be trunking it.
(Just beating rice to the punch)
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Oceanslide
Miki Dora status
Reged: 03/04/08
Posts: 5249
Loc: Oceanside, CA
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Quote:
Quote:
Just used my 5/4/3 Matuse today at LA's coldest point. Strong offshore winds and long waits for the swingers from the North swell. After 3 hours, I never overheated or got cold. Not leaks, tho a drop would get in my neck from time to time. No big deal. The suit is so light in and out of the water and it's very easy to paddle in. The torso is a little stiff due to the 5mm rubber and batwing, no biggie. I'll just say this is the best coldwater suit I've ever used.
5/4/3 in S. California? WTF? You are a sliver of a man and your heart pumps puppy piss. Man up. Central coast guys would be trunking it.
(Just beating rice to the punch)
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"Surfing reminds us of how good life is."
Oceansliding
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c_olden
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 09/04/07
Posts: 3225
Loc: (48°52.6′S 123°23.6̸...
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Quote:
Quote:
Just used my 5/4/3 Matuse today at LA's coldest point. Strong offshore winds and long waits for the swingers from the North swell. After 3 hours, I never overheated or got cold. Not leaks, tho a drop would get in my neck from time to time. No big deal. The suit is so light in and out of the water and it's very easy to paddle in. The torso is a little stiff due to the 5mm rubber and batwing, no biggie. I'll just say this is the best coldwater suit I've ever used.
5/4/3 in S. California? WTF? You are a sliver of a man and your heart pumps puppy piss. Man up. Central coast guys would be trunking it.
(Just beating rice to the punch)
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"The phone's for you. I think it's the Devil..."
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Just used my 5/4/3 Matuse today at LA's coldest point. Strong offshore winds and long waits for the swingers from the North swell. After 3 hours, I never overheated or got cold. Not leaks, tho a drop would get in my neck from time to time. No big deal. The suit is so light in and out of the water and it's very easy to paddle in. The torso is a little stiff due to the 5mm rubber and batwing, no biggie. I'll just say this is the best coldwater suit I've ever used.
5/4/3 in S. California? WTF? You are a sliver of a man and your heart pumps puppy piss. Man up. Central coast guys would be trunking it.
(Just beating rice to the punch)
Someone with Rice's phone number needs to call and give him a warning. He's gonna blow an O-Ring when he finally reads this.
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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c_olden
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 09/04/07
Posts: 3225
Loc: (48°52.6′S 123°23.6̸...
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Quote:
Just used my 5/4/3 Matuse today at LA's coldest point. Strong offshore winds and long waits for the swingers from the North swell. After 3 hours, I never overheated or got cold. Not leaks, tho a drop would get in my neck from time to time. No big deal. The suit is so light in and out of the water and it's very easy to paddle in. The torso is a little stiff due to the 5mm rubber and batwing, no biggie. I'll just say this is the best coldwater suit I've ever used.
sorta curious...what's the water temp at "LA's coldest point"?
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"The phone's for you. I think it's the Devil..."
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lorcar
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 1016
Loc: flatMed
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Quote:
lorcal, if i were you i'd stay away from the oniell psycho2 suits and go with the psycho1.
wow, how possible.
I would have thought that if the P2 has problems, the P1 is even worse, as it has just one single fluid seam
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nkpheous
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 04/07/08
Posts: 2986
Loc: Huntington Beach
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Yeah one fluid seam and glued and blindstitched. The p2 has no stitching. The fluid seams break down and separate from the neoprene panels. This was my experience with the knees and chest panels on both of my p2 suits.
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Homie
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 09/02/05
Posts: 3321
Loc: Creek
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I have a Xcel Infiniti X Zip Short Sleeve Fullsuit that I bought around the middle of June. The suit is unreal and the fit is super good. My only complaint is that a seam is already starting to bust and I have been super careful with this suit so it’s getting sent back to Xcel.
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lorcar
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 1016
Loc: flatMed
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Quote:
Yeah one fluid seam and glued and blindstitched. The p2 has no stitching. The fluid seams break down and separate from the neoprene panels. This was my experience with the knees and chest panels on both of my p2 suits.
i went on Oneill website, but couldnt find that Ps1 has stitching
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nkpheous
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 04/07/08
Posts: 2986
Loc: Huntington Beach
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i saw that. i found more info on another site and it is GBS seams with 1 welded seam
Additional Features
FULL O'Neill WARRANTY!
Firewall Insulation
Z.E.N. Zip Entry/Closure
Krypto Knee Pads
Plasma Seals
100% Sealed
Crewneck
D-Tox Kneepad
Exterior Fluid Seam Weld
External Key Pocket
Firewall Insulating-Fiber Jersey
Fluid Seam Weld
Glued & Blindstitched Seams ***
Lightweight & Durable
Minimal Seam Design
Plasma Interior wrist & ankle seals
Strategic Seamless Paddle Zones
Super Seal Neck
Ultraflex DS
Wind Resistant Glideskin
External Key Pocket
Ultraflex XDS
Exterior Fluid Seam Weld
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MATJOHNSON
Grom
Reged: 09/06/09
Posts: 80
Loc: CAPE MAY < NJ
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I just got a Hyperflex 5/4/3 Flow yesterday and I thihk is a very well made suite and the price is great as well $224 plus tax .
The suite fits really well and the seams are Glued , & Taped and blind stiched. The honey comb fleece layering inside on the chest and in the hood feel really good and make the suite feel extra cozy. The cuffs around the ends of the sleeves and legs are really strechy and make I nice snug fit around boots and gloves. The 6 way strech in this thing is amazing the suite fits so well it almost like it my own skin. I havent had a chance to give it a water test yet but if its like any of my other Hyperflex suits it will be very warm and durable
They have a good warrenty and are based out of NJ so I like the fact I and supporting a local buisness. There facotry is like 45 min from my house so "if" I every had a issue I could just drive it to the facotry to get fixed rather than mail it.
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Shwuz
Miki Dora status
Reged: 09/26/03
Posts: 3644
Loc: Corpus Christi, TX
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Ok, I'm just about sold on the Hyperflex, I'm just wondering what the significant differences are between the "Amp" and the "Flow" models. It's about a $70 price difference, but the site isn't clear on why the Amp is that much better.
Any insight?
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"He played it safe" can be very easily sandblasted into a slick slab of granite.
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MATJOHNSON
Grom
Reged: 09/06/09
Posts: 80
Loc: CAPE MAY < NJ
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Quote:
Ok, I'm just about sold on the Hyperflex, I'm just wondering what the significant differences are between the "Amp" and the "Flow" models. It's about a $70 price difference, but the site isn't clear on why the Amp is that much better.
Any insight?
I dont know either? Flow use to be there top of the line model. There website say the same info for the Amp 5/4/3 & Flow 5/4/3.
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Shwuz
Miki Dora status
Reged: 09/26/03
Posts: 3644
Loc: Corpus Christi, TX
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Well... What it looks like is, this year's "flow" is about equivilent to last year's "amp". So still a pretty solid suit for the price. Since I'm only in rubber for about 3-4 months of the year, I'll probably go for the Flow and save a few bucks.
Most importantly, it's going to be an improvement to the busted-ass $89 ripcurl I've been using for the last 6 years.
BTW~ Go here right now for the flow 3/2 on sale for only $129. http://www.wavejammer.com/wetsuits/fullsuits/fullsuits72.shtml They have every size but mine (xl).
Edit: I talked myself into going with the Amp. 
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"He played it safe" can be very easily sandblasted into a slick slab of granite.
Edited by Shwuz (11/01/09 01:48 PM)
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ifallalot
Duke status
Reged: 12/17/08
Posts: 18398
Loc: Carlsbad, CA
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I've been looking at the Hyperflexes for a 5/4/3 Hooded for dark winter mornings. All the good things I'm hearing looks like I'm going to pull the trigger. I guess there's no reason to think of something as "too cheap" huh?
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the graphics portray the hawks prey battling death
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MATJOHNSON
Grom
Reged: 09/06/09
Posts: 80
Loc: CAPE MAY < NJ
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Quote:
I've been looking at the Hyperflexes for a 5/4/3 Hooded for dark winter mornings. All the good things I'm hearing looks like I'm going to pull the trigger. I guess there's no reason to think of something as "too cheap" huh?
Just cause it 100 dollars less than a Rip Curl or Xcel suite dont let that make you think that Hyperflex's suite are cheaply made.
My whole wetsuit arsonal is Hyperflex. I got a Hyperflex Flow 3/2 that is 5 years old and is in Great shape, A hyperflex cyclone 4/3 which is 4 years old and is in great shape aswell execpt the lettering on the arms is coming off but I dont care. I got a AMP long sleeve 2mm top I got this fall and it fits great . I dont ride up in the back like most suits. Last but not least I got my FLow 5/4/3 yesterday I can wait to try out.
I have been out and have been talkin to guy who are pissed cause they have spent good money on Top brands and they fall apart after 1 season. Almost all of my suits are 4+ years old and all still perform like new . No tears , zipper failurs or blow out , or leaky seams.
I am sold on Hyperflex If they made a Beaver tail wetsuit they ALL my suits would be Hyperflex after christmas.(Getting a Vintage Soul Beaver Tail for Christmas)
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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Quote:
5/4/3 in S. California? WTF? You are a sliver of a man and your heart pumps puppy piss. Man up. Central coast guys would be trunking it.
(Just beating rice to the punch)
Puppy piss seems like it would warm you up.
Look;
1. All I did was comment that "well, yeah, of course" a guy with a 4/3 in SD was staying warm. Tell me truthfully, is there anyone wearing a 4/3 in SD that is NOT warm? That doesn't seem like much a statement.
2. CenCal/NorCal surfers are not more "core", or tougher, or less "pussy"; they just wear thicker wetsuits.
The prevailing wisdom has gone, roughly: SoCal = 3/2, Central/NorCal = 4/3, PNW = 5/4, and New England Winter = really, really thick. And as suits have gotten more warm and better constructed, even that is getting pushed down. I know a ton of guys (not me) here that wear 3/2's year round.
3. Though I love living here, I have always been super jealous of my SoCal brethren enjoying much warmer water, especially in SD. I am very surprised to find that this is not the case.
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SurfZombie
Tom Curren status
Reged: 06/29/04
Posts: 14206
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Quote:
Quote:
5/4/3 in S. California? WTF? You are a sliver of a man and your heart pumps puppy piss. Man up. Central coast guys would be trunking it.
(Just beating rice to the punch)
Puppy piss seems like it would warm you up.
Look;
1. All I did was comment that "well, yeah, of course" a guy with a 4/3 in SD was staying warm. Tell me truthfully, is there anyone wearing a 4/3 in SD that is NOT warm? That doesn't seem like much a statement.
2. CenCal/NorCal surfers are not more "core", or tougher, or less "pussy"; they just wear thicker wetsuits.
The prevailing wisdom has gone, roughly: SoCal = 3/2, Central/NorCal = 4/3, PNW = 5/4, and New England Winter = really, really thick. And as suits have gotten more warm and better constructed, even that is getting pushed down. I know a ton of guys (not me) here that wear 3/2's year round.
3. Though I love living here, I have always been super jealous of my SoCal brethren enjoying much warmer water, especially in SD. I am very surprised to find that this is not the case.
All we need now is a chick to post that she wears a 4/3 in San Diego and we'll get to see rice hulk up.
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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lorcar
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 1016
Loc: flatMed
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after reading all these posts and other threads about wetsuits, it seems the most appreciated wetsuits here (w/o reaching the high price tag of matuse and patagonia) are: Boz, Hotline, Hyperflex, West and Xcel
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featherboa
Nep status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 613
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Just tried on my new xcel infinity xzip 3/2. Nicest suit I ever wore. Can't want to try it out. I hope it's as warm as my 4/3 2005 Ripcurl.
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Homie
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 09/02/05
Posts: 3321
Loc: Creek
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Is anyone on here wearing a high end 2MM year round in SoCal? I used to wear a 4.3 during freezing East Coast winters, hopefully wetsuit gloves have gotten better because they didn't work well back then.
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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Quote:
Is anyone on here wearing a high end 2MM year round in SoCal?
tenover is, and he seems super stocked on it.
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stu dog
Duke status
Reged: 01/15/03
Posts: 21760
Loc: CA
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Quote:
Just tried on my new xcel infinity xzip 3/2. Nicest suit I ever wore. Can't want to try it out. I hope it's as warm as my 4/3 2005 Ripcurl.
found a pretty killer deal for a last year's 4/3 Xcel Drylock from an online site. doesn't have the air chamber material and bamboo lining, but under $300 no tax and free shipping.
Edited by stu dog (11/05/09 01:04 PM)
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honkeytonk
Grom
Reged: 10/14/09
Posts: 40
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I had a Oneil epic 3/2 and that was one crappy wetsuit it fell apart after a year and half of use. Just bought a Billabong 4/3 solution gold and a quiksilver CL6 3/2. Both work OK we will see how long they last. Back in high school I had some basic Xcel wetsuit that was awesome. I beat the crap out of that thing never washed it sat in my trunk exposed to sunlight all day since i went like 4 times a week and never tore stitching never blew out nothing. Eventually some guy I let borrow the suit for a day disappeared and never got it back.
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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Update for my Xcel Short arm 2mm full that I got this spring. It has that new bamboo enfused yadda yadda that all the new Xcels have now.
I wore the piss out of it since May or so. Really comfy and flexible. No rashes and there's no evidence of wear.
So far so good.
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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I just bought a 4/3 XCEL Drylock.
I'll post a review after this weekend of beatdowns.
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Havoc
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/10/07
Posts: 10001
Loc: The OC Life
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Quote:
I just bought a 4/3 XCEL Drylock.
I'll post a review after this weekend of beatdowns.
what made you decide on the 4/3 xcel over say a Matuse?
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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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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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I am a funky size and the shops around here all stopped carrying Matuse, so I couldn't try one on, and was wary of ordering one that didn't fit. Plus, it seems there's some yay and nay on those suits that gave me pause.
I tried on the Pata suit and really, REALLY wanted to like it, but just didn't. Felt kinda heavy, not that well fitting, and the seam glue felt funky and was tapeless.
I've had XCELs for the past 8 years and have been stoked, so it was hard not to go that way again.
Spent more money to get the Drylock; not sure if it is worth it.
We'll see...
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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Rice I have last years Drylock in a 4/3 and love it. I got a great deal on an Xzip 3/2 and have been wearing that lately. There is a noticeable difference in quality of the two but it's not too significant.
The drylock seals better up top as you can cinch the closure down and the additional fuzzy/soft material is nice.
If I were going to pay full price for a suit I would pay extra for the drylock. But if I found a deal (like I did) I would still buy the Xzip if available.
But that's just me. If I was up in your neck of the woods I would pay to get the best suit no matter what.
If you need help with booties let me know 
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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Havoc
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/10/07
Posts: 10001
Loc: The OC Life
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Yeah Rice, good call on the drylock. I have a 3/2 infinity chest zip non drylock and a 3/2 chest zip drylock. The drylock is a bit warmer like sbd said. I've been having good look w/ xcels and if a 4/3 drylock goes on sale this year, I'll def'ly spring for it.
Hell, if I was in your neck of the woods, I would likely get a 5/4/3 w/ hood and shark armor
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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stu dog
Duke status
Reged: 01/15/03
Posts: 21760
Loc: CA
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Quote:
Yeah Rice, good call on the drylock. I have a 3/2 infinity chest zip non drylock and a 3/2 chest zip drylock. The drylock is a bit warmer like sbd said. I've been having good look w/ xcels and if a 4/3 drylock goes on sale this year, I'll def'ly spring for it.
Hell, if I was in your neck of the woods, I would likely get a 5/4/3 w/ hood and shark armor
Havoc
well if you're a L and don't mind last year's DryLock, here ya go: http://www.seasidesurfshop.com/Xcel-Wets...it-On-Sale.aspx
i bought an XL 2008 DryLock off them on thursday. it's in route right now i looked at the 2009 4/3 DryLock and was impressed but wondering if was maybe too much suit for so-cal winters. it also felt really thick compared to my current 4/3 OS. didn't want to take a chance on going with a 3/2 for winter so opted for last years model.
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honkeytonk
Grom
Reged: 10/14/09
Posts: 40
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There is this guy on craigslist from glendora ca that sells brand new wetsuits for alot cheaper then what the shops go for. Cool guy so if any of you guys are looking to get a suit then find him on craigslist and give him a ring or just messege me and I will post the number. he ships out too for any of you east coast guys.
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rice
Duke status
Reged: 07/02/02
Posts: 17812
Loc: CA
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Quote:
If you need help with booties let me know
That's alright; I'm good.
Yeah, I got a good deal on the Drylock as well. The suit is WARM. Hot, actually, at least this past weekend and I surfed in it 4 separate times.
The little sleeve-cuff-gasket things rule, as far as keeping water out of the sleeves. And they run an ring of tape about 5 inches up inside the legs as well, that seemed to help keep water out, too.
Then, with the one side of the neck sealed, the waterproof zipper, and the cinch-down on the other side? I was STOCKED.
Plus, yeah, that bamboo-fuzzy-sweater stuff all over the inside was pretty nice, too. Super flexible and super warm.
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Homie
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 09/02/05
Posts: 3321
Loc: Creek
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Quote:
Just cause it 100 dollars less than a Rip Curl or Xcel suite dont let that make you think that Hyperflex's suite are cheaply made.
This is very true… I just got a Hyperflex flow 3/2 from wavejammer and the quality of the suit is amazing. I actually think its made better than my $200 Xcel short sleeve full and looks super toasty but the size medium is a little loose under my arms so I am sending it back. Defiantly check Hyperflex out, I am impressed and hopefully the Amp fits me better.
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lorcar
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 1016
Loc: flatMed
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I am about to pull the trigger on a new wetsuit, and choosing among these 4, chestzip models:
1- Xcel Infinity Xzip
2- Xcel Infinity Drylock (I read that the Xzip is somehow more comfortable)
3- West Lotus (tried the M size, it left a huge gap in the back so I am thinking going with the MS, I am 5'11'' and 150lb. It was a superpain to get in and out, i still have the zip scar on my arm)
4- Ripcurl E3 e-bomb (not the Pro model w/o Aquaban liquid seal. I can find both the 2009 and 2010 model: do you know the difference?)
after reading much, I'd say they are all comparable, and read great reviews on each of them. Only problem is that I tried only the Ripcurl M size (fitting very well, just the neck a bit too tight) and the West in the M size as above, with huge gap behind. So I am a bit afraid of buying something online I didnt try, and where I live it's not easy at all
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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I'd recommend the Xcel. If you have the money get the drylock. Not crucial but worth the extra money if you're paying full price. Drylock is more comfortable, just fits and seals around the neck better and it also has more of that warm fuzzy material throughout the suit.
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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featherboa
Nep status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 613
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3/2 x-zip was wet and i had been a little chilly lately, so I got out the old 4/3 ripcurl and was just as chilly, and could barely move. where can i find a thin hood? i have a thick one that came with a suit, but it squeezes my big head and overheats me in 2 minutes.
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NorCrusty
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 10/16/09
Posts: 205
Loc: Santa Cruz
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Quote:
I am about to pull the trigger on a new wetsuit, and choosing among these 4, chestzip models:
1- Xcel Infinity Xzip
2- Xcel Infinity Drylock (I read that the Xzip is somehow more comfortable)
3- West Lotus (tried the M size, it left a huge gap in the back so I am thinking going with the MS, I am 5'11'' and 150lb. It was a superpain to get in and out, i still have the zip scar on my arm)
4- Ripcurl E3 e-bomb (not the Pro model w/o Aquaban liquid seal. I can find both the 2009 and 2010 model: do you know the difference?)
after reading much, I'd say they are all comparable, and read great reviews on each of them. Only problem is that I tried only the Ripcurl M size (fitting very well, just the neck a bit too tight) and the West in the M size as above, with huge gap behind. So I am a bit afraid of buying something online I didnt try, and where I live it's not easy at all
We spoke about the West and my recommendation still stands, however, the Ripcurl F-Bomb in a chest zip is a good suit. I don't care what anyone says, I've had them fall apart in the past too but from recent experience, I think they finally got their act together. The neck will loosen up, if it's tight initially, I'd say that's good for the long run.
Again, West is a great value...
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J_P_again
Grom
Reged: 04/15/09
Posts: 94
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4/3/2 matuse
best 3/2 ever, not a 4/3 IMO. if you can find one that fits. sizing sucks. hate the marketing/branding, but the suit is nice and well worth the vintage price. i wouldnt pay full pop for one though.
was surfing a rocky rocky spot on a longboard with no leash yesterday. the two times i lost my board, the suit even felt buoyant as i scratched like hell to get there before the ding cycle started. most suits feel like i'm wearing lead when i have to swim for my board. told me it really doesnt hold water.
also will dry out nearly 100% overnight even when it's 50 and damp.
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hillstmikey
Nep status
Reged: 04/22/09
Posts: 666
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i too have the exel chest zip 4/3 and the thing is loose in the neck and flushes constantly. It's colder than my 3/2. I had it sent in for repair of a tear in the neck. Customer service is awesome I sent it in on a monday and got it back the following monday. too bad it's tearing again in the same spot
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Those are rats. I got a schnauzer and a sharpe.
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ifallalot
Duke status
Reged: 12/17/08
Posts: 18398
Loc: Carlsbad, CA
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How long does everyone's wetsuits last?
I surf at least 300 days a year and no matter what I wear I only get about 9 months out of them. I'm sure this is due to the fact that I usually only have one 4/3 that I wear year round and just subtract booties and a hood.
I will now be able to rotate as I got a 5/4/3 for Xmas
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the graphics portray the hawks prey battling death
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Doppelgangster
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 10/16/07
Posts: 3164
Loc: among da seaweed and da slime
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I've had a 3/2 Xcel Infinity Drylock for about a month now. Great suit, hands down. Very little leakage, especially around the neck. And the sleeves and ankles have this funky curved seam that seals them up super tight, but still comfortable. I can surf for a couple hours and there are still a couple dry spots inside. Super warm, almost to the point of too warm if the sun is out, even with 58 water. Really flexible, though doesn't seem nearly as soft and plush as my old Psycho 1 was when it was new. The chest zip feels a little weird at first, adding some stiffness across the front, but you easily get used to it. Also, I just noticed a bit of a rash spot just behind my armpits, right where there is a reinforced seam joint. This only came about after surfing 5 days in a row over the holidays (rare for me). Not as bad as other suits I've had, but I noticed so thought I would make note.
I also picked up new booties at the same time, opted for 5 mil round toe with the velcro across the top of the foot. Best ones I've ever had. They have the same green bamboo material as the suit. So you know, I figured that 5 mil is better than 3 for a couple reasons. I have poor circulation in my feet and they tend to get cold easily. Plus since I'm wearing booties anyways, any affect on my surfing wouldn't be exacerbated by adding a couple mils. So they're more useful in a variety of water temps, plus my feet stay even warmer. And frankly they feel really solid while surfing, no sliding around inside or folding over and don't seem to affect my surfing, other than the usual poop where the booties stick to your wax too much making it hard to adjust your footing once your up and going. Win-Win!
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San Gabriel Valley local
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 11/14/02
Posts: 1888
Loc: San Gabriel Valley, CA
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The 3 suits in my rotation now are:
- Patagonia R2 (2mm) back zip
- Boz 3.5/2.5 Thermo Boss back zip
- Boz 3/2.5 Comp back zip
I'm surfing 2-3 times a week, wearing each suit once a week max. In recent weather (air mid to high 40s, water high 50s) I'm good for 1 1/2 to 2 hour dawn patrol sessions with any of these suits. (With a squid lid if it's windy.)
I think the Comp is at least as warm if not warmer than the Thermo Boss and Patagonia, and significantly more flexible and lighter. Downside of the Comp is the zipper in the back of the neck and insufficiently sized neck gasket.
No neck flushing problems with any of these suits. I'm starting to feel some water trickling into the crotch with the Thermo Boss (I've had it since Fall '08). The Patagonia has always trickled a little in the thigh area but it hasn't gotten worse since I bought it in early '09. This suit seems a little colder initially, but warms up with activity and retains heat very well.
None of these suits is perfect, but I like all of them and would purchase a Patagonia or Boz again.
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East_Coaster
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 04/13/05
Posts: 166
Loc: NY
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Quote:
I surf at least 300 days a year
Wow I need to move west after hearing that. If I could surf that much I could probably be on the tour I would be ripping so hard.
.
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tacos
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 02/12/06
Posts: 2352
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Quote:
How long does everyone's wetsuits last?
I surf at least 300 days a year and no matter what I wear I only get about 9 months out of them. I'm sure this is due to the fact that I usually only have one 4/3 that I wear year round and just subtract booties and a hood.
I will now be able to rotate as I got a 5/4/3 for Xmas
I was actually going to ask this too, I'm curious as to people's responses, especially since one of the main things I look for is durability and longevity.
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jkb
Nep status
Reged: 02/21/05
Posts: 925
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For this winter, I decided to give the O'neill Mutant (4/3) a try. In previous years, I have owned Xcels, an O'neill Psycho 2, numerous Rip Curls, and a Matuse.
I loved Xcels fit and warmth initially, but was unhappy with their durability, as I would only be able to get 1 or 1 1/2 seasons with them before they started falling apart. I was really hesitant to spend $420 for a drylock that might only last one season.
I found the Psycho 2 to be a little stiff, as the double fluid seam weld felt a little too restrictive. I would find myself getting tired a lot faster. The material also felt like it got stiff over time and the suit lost its warmth rather quickly.
I used to buy Rip Curls all the time. I loved them when they first came out with the draw string suit quite a few years ago, but I felt like their quality went downhill really quickly since then. I gave last years F-Bomb a shot, and it was by far the worst suit I've ever owned.
I thought the Matuse would be this years winter suit (4/3/2), but I quickly found out that it wasn't going to be warm enough to get me through winter. This suit feels really nice, it's flexible, and light, but just doesn't quite have the warmth that my Xcel 4/3's had. It's a great 3/2, but not a 4/3 for me.
As for the Mutant, I've only owned it for a month now, but I really like it. It's very warm, much more flexible than the Psycho 2 that I owned previously, and does not show signs of wear yet (my Xcels chest zips would have ripped along the neck entry area by now). It's also really nice to be able to unzip the standard neck on the Mutant and zip a hood on it. The only downside to the suit that I have noticed is that It can take a little more than a day to dry at times, where my Matuse will dry overnight.
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Q_Surf
Tom Curren status
Reged: 05/05/03
Posts: 14509
Loc: world's largest oregon
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after 2+ seasons on my qs cell 4/3, it is finally done. this was my 2nd one, & combined w/ a 1mm hooded full rashy it worked great. if i could steal another for <$200 i would.
but i can't find those e-deals on qs cyphers so i pulled the trigger on a 5/4/3 'boutique' $uit yesterday with the idea that it would be the best of all these worlds:
a. warm and comfy
b. warrantied forever...?
c. very durable
d. light and flexible
gf wanted to see what a $599 $uit looked like so i modeled it at home and we found a 1.5" long split in the 5mm sharkskin rubber near the hip - almost all the way through to the inside. guessing it happened by someone's fingernail while trying it on (i keep mine trimmed).
after reading reviews of others having experiences with this same material splitting, and also bc the suit feels too bulky and i seem to be in-between sizes, i am taking the unused suit back for a refund.
just ordered a boz 5/4/3 front zip hooded for 40% le$$. harry says it'll be here thurs. hope i can add to the bozhype. stay tuned...
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Nature's finest transportation
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SurfZombie
Tom Curren status
Reged: 06/29/04
Posts: 14206
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Another season of Hurley Freedoms and I'm not complaining. Love these suits. 3/2s and 4/3s - wont have a need for anything thicker.
Got a West 4/3/2 in the rotation, but the wetsuit is starting to get tight in the neck area (where the pull over batwing type thingy is) - which is weird, because it wasn't tight before.
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9ten
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 05/21/09
Posts: 226
Loc: NJ
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My latest suits are Hotlines and I like them alot. I got an older 4/3 Freebird and a 5/4 CCU with the full front zip, old school style. The suit is super warm and so much easier to get in/out of which is a big deal when the windchill is way below freezing. The materials and construction on both are quality as well as their customer service. Their 7mm booties also fit great.
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Cross
Grom
Reged: 10/22/09
Posts: 144
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I need a new 3/2 suit for the coming spring and summer months. Also for when I'll be out in CA in the fall. I've been pretty faithful to O'Neill over the years, and I have a 5/4 mutant that I am wearing now in the winter here in New England and I like it.
I tried on their 3/2 Psycho (may have been the psycho 2... can't remember) at the shop and I was blown away by how comfortable it was. But I don't know if I can spend that kind of cash on a wetsuit right now.
I have seen the West suits around though and their prices for a 3/2 are pretty reasonable for a suit with sealed seems. Haven't been able to try them on though, and I've heard they fit tight for some people.
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heelnipstr
Billy Hamilton status
Reged: 07/29/09
Posts: 1485
Loc: Southern Tip, Norcal
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Matuse Warranty Update
sent it in 4 weeks ago. got a call this morning asking to clarify what is wrong with it(filled out their form, giving written description and using graphics of the problem areas. why the call?). which are, there are 3 or 4 seams that are separating on the chest area and under the arms, also on the inside of the knee there is a soft spot that allows water the flow freely into the suit as soon as I get in the water.
ahh, the reason for the call, the knee problem is not covered under warranty. Apparently I duck dive too much for this suit and that is why the material failed. Yes obsf does require you to duck dive an excessive amount imho, but I have never had another suit have this issue(this includes suits w/ yamamoto rubber.
he said if I want them to fix it , it will cost me $25. I asked wont it fail again at the same place in 3 months though? he did not have an answer, so I said no. so he promised to send it to their factory today and I should get it back in 2-3 weeks.
suit cost total $395
3 months old(used average 3x's a week)
in for warranty for 6-7 weeks
this suit has been a big fail for me
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"Disbelief in magic can force a poor soul into believing in government and business."
- Tom Robbins
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andesandrew
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 05/13/06
Posts: 355
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damn that sucks...I was surprised by Matuse going above-and-beyond the requests on the form I sent in, even being over a year-old, but I guess my main problem was the zipper, which are covered I guess...
My only complaint is that my 1 year-old 4/3/2 Matuse is now definitely a 3/2 in terms of practical warmth.
My XCEL Drylock I sent back for repair came back in almost worse shape than I sent it - a total joke. I paid $35 to a local diving wetsuit maker and he did the strongest and most impressive level of repair I have seen. 3rd party repairs might just be the way to go... He re-sealed/taped areas where water was trickling in and it really brought back that initial warmness in the suit.
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shred_the_gnar
Nep status
Reged: 01/01/06
Posts: 755
Loc: CA
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I hate to plug my blog here, but my buddy wrote a solid Matuse review with epic Billy Madison references...and I'm to lazy to upload the photo and video.
"Gotta love a broken zipper a few months shy of almost having this suit 1 whole season. Even better on a morning with waves at 6:45 AM. I heard so much hype about these suits before owning one. "ohhh best suit ever" , "So warm, warmest suit I've ever had" etc.
Have you ever read the book "The Emperors New Clothes"?
I can't back the bullshit. Here's my honest opinion of the 3/2/2 Matuse suit -
I put this suit on for the first time last February 2009 and surfed the Venice breakwall at 2:30 in the afternoon. I was cold within an hour. By June the suit was more or less completely leaking and had torn itself two holes in the chest panels where the smoothie met. Awesome. Alternating between this suit and an Aleeda for another few months (didn't wear it in summer, duh) the suit took it's final blow this morning, December 28 2009, with a busted zipper while suiting up in the parking lot. Feb-June, not wearing everyday because of alternating fullsuits = holes and leakage. Oct-December = Dusted ass suit. fark.
Now keep in mind I'm not a ***** retard and know how to put on a suit. I've worked in a surf shop for wayyyyy tooo long and instruct donkey's on the finer points of slipping on rubber daily. For the record, 80% of the time I changed into that Matuse suit I used a plastic bag because it was so damn hard to get into. Even bone dry it was a pain in the ass. The ankles were tighter than junior prom night. I babied the suit, meaning I wasn't a lazy fark and washed the thing out every time, hung it in the garage out of the sunlight, and even used a super gay changing mat in the parking lot.
So there Ya go, a non bias review of a Matuse suit. fark the hype, these suits are mediocre at best. A good afternoon suit, as it's not that warm, but it is awfully flexible and comfortable. Final thoughts - next time you hear some siked yuppie talk up his matuse because he likes talking about how innovative and amazing it is (read, overly expensive and overly hyped) tell him to eat a dick and try a psycho 1."
You can check it out here:
http://www.svrfandestroy.com/2009/12/heres-nice-piece-of-poop-matuse-review.html
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[url=http://surfandestroy.blogspot.com[/url]
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stu dog
Duke status
Reged: 01/15/03
Posts: 21760
Loc: CA
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about a month now using my 4/3 Xcel DryLock. 2009 model without the bambo & cell material. Great suit! plenty warm for the coldest so-cal days. my first chest zip and I'm loving it. easier for paddling compared to a back zip and no more lower back leakage from the zipper. suit is showing some minor signs of wear. some of the rubber strips on the inside of the arm cuffs are starting to peal off. some shoe goo will probably fix it. like usually with Xcel the key pocket SUCKS excluding that a really good suit so far
Edited by stu dog (01/07/10 01:08 PM)
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wildingb
Grom
Reged: 07/28/08
Posts: 149
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I absolutely agree with you regards the Matuse suit. Overpriced piece of garbage. I have the latest model and have worn it around 20-30 times. The seams under the arm and on the back have split and water gets in. I haven't taken it back to Mitch's in la jolla because it is my only suit. Maybe i will investigate trying to seal the seam myself.
$530 - what a waste, what was i thinking.
DO NOT BUY A MATUSE
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rid
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 1070
Loc: Long Beach, CA
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Bought a used 4/3/2 hoplite a couple of weeks ago. Although the suit is used, I was also expecting that the suit would be warmer. not as warm as a 4/3 drylock. I like the suit overall but wouldt pay $500 for it for sure. I have a Gato Heroi 3mm which is far more flexible and warmer too.
Edited by rid (01/07/10 03:29 PM)
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stu dog
Duke status
Reged: 01/15/03
Posts: 21760
Loc: CA
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Quote:
I absolutely agree with you regards the Matuse suit. Overpriced piece of garbage. I have the latest model and have worn it around 20-30 times. The seams under the arm and on the back have split and water gets in. I haven't taken it back to Mitch's in la jolla because it is my only suit. Maybe i will investigate trying to seal the seam myself.
$530 - what a waste, what was i thinking.
DO NOT BUY A MATUSE
same under the armpit seam break happend to another 'bber I know looks like Matuse a major design or manufacturing problem
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wildingb
Grom
Reged: 07/28/08
Posts: 149
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Thanks for the info.
Does anyone know if we have any rights to get our money back if the design is flawed? A law applies to consumer goods similar to the lemon law for cars?
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singlFIN
Nep status
Reged: 10/22/09
Posts: 585
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Just curious if you guys with the issues have the '09 model. I have had the '08 (Hoplite 3/2/2) for a few months now and haven't had any problems *yet.
What I will say is that the suit is:
Positives:
- seems to be really well made
- feels really light in the water
- reasonably warm **when you are on the move** considering how thin it is
Negatives:
- not very warm on a lully day (if you are looking to replace a 3/2 the 4/3/2 will likely be a better match)
- not as flexible as you would expect considering how thing the rubber is
- drying time is only slightly faster than other suits
- durability is now a big question mark, based on this thread
I recently got a Patagonia R3 chest zip (for free) and with that suit I can totally see the value. It is almost 2 times as thick as the 3/2/2 Matuse but just as flexible. My understanding is that with the Patagonia suit, you also get stellar customer service for repairs or replacement, which Matuse buyers dont seem to be getting. I would bet/hope that this is a growing pain with the company (Matuse) rather than consumer neglect.
I really wanted to the Matuse suit to be good since they are an SD business. But in the end, its just a wetsuit and only marginally better than the other more economical suits out there. If I had paid full price (rather than $295 on wetsand.com) I think I would be a little disappointed with it. For the most part due to the lack of warmth. The 3/2/2 doesn't seem like enough rubber for a San Diego winter and I have only ever worn 3/2's in San Diego.
Now I am using the Matuse Hoplite 3/2/2 when the water is 60+ (58+ if its sunny) and the Patagonia R3 for anything colder. If I could do it all over again I would without question go for a Patagonia R2 chest zip as a year round suit.
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GO SURF.
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singlFIN
Nep status
Reged: 10/22/09
Posts: 585
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Quote:
Thanks for the info.
Does anyone know if we have any rights to get our money back if the design is flawed? A law applies to consumer goods similar to the lemon law for cars?
I Think you would need to go class action to get anywhere. Considering that Matuse's office is inside a law office (I think the ceo/owners dad is a lawyer), that path might be rough. I would try reaching out to the company if you are that dissatisfied.
On the other hand if its a monetary thing, most credit cards will cover things being defective, lost etc within the first few months (sometimes up to a year). A lot of credit cards also double the manufacturers warranty.
Keep everyone posted
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GO SURF.
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heelnipstr
Billy Hamilton status
Reged: 07/29/09
Posts: 1485
Loc: Southern Tip, Norcal
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Quote:
Quote:
Thanks for the info.
Does anyone know if we have any rights to get our money back if the design is flawed? A law applies to consumer goods similar to the lemon law for cars?
I Think you would need to go class action to get anywhere. Considering that Matuse's office is inside a law office (I think the ceo/owners dad is a lawyer), that path might be rough. I would try reaching out to the company if you are that dissatisfied.
On the other hand if its a monetary thing, most credit cards will cover things being defective, lost etc within the first few months (sometimes up to a year). A lot of credit cards also double the manufacturers warranty.
Keep everyone posted
I sent a letter today(since they don't give an email address) to Matuse explaining my experience and asking for clarification as to why duck diving, for a 3 month old suit would cause an issue to be out of warranty. How can they explain away how duck diving is not 'normal recreational use' thus voids warranty, stated by them.
If they reply it should at least be entertaining. 
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"Disbelief in magic can force a poor soul into believing in government and business."
- Tom Robbins
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nkpheous
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 04/07/08
Posts: 2986
Loc: Huntington Beach
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enough of this matuse, excel, oneill b.s. this is the most warmest and best wetsuit ever. and it works in space 
 
http://www.roddenberry.com/rdt-custom-wetsuit-5mm.html#
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20W-50 and blood
Duke status
Reged: 02/04/04
Posts: 16854
Loc: SOCAL
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i coudl see you in one of those looking like the lost lovechild of dr. mccoy and cpt. kirk.
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Jesus was Mexican, Ronald Reagan was the devil, and the government is lying about 9-11.
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singlFIN
Nep status
Reged: 10/22/09
Posts: 585
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Quote:
I sent a letter today(since they don't give an email address)...
Sent you a PM with some contact info
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GO SURF.
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feralseppo
Nep status
Reged: 02/28/06
Posts: 581
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I picked up an '08 5/4/3 Matuse thinking I'd be staying too warm on the early morning dawn patrols and for my runs up north (I'm in Malibu). First morning out in it was one of the colder days a couple of weeks ago with air temps in the mid 40s and everyone complaining about being cold out in the lineup. I think I was feeling the cold just as much as any one else.
The suit definitely is not any warmer than my 5 year old 4/3 or my 2 year old 3/2 Bong Solution Platinum. The day before I was easily as warm in the 3/2 with a 1/2 mil shirt underneath. But the big difference is the Bong is a no zip and I get no leakage. With the Matuse, every wave I go under its a massive influx of water down my back. Needless to say I sat out for 3 hours freezing my back off with a bunch of cold water that never left went away.
And I noticed for some reason the seam underneath the arm is not taped while the rest of the suit is. I'm still scratching my head about that. The seam that is not taped is already unraveling and I've only had the suit a couple weeks.
In my opinion, it's a decent suit for the $220 I paid for it. I'd be pissed if I dropped 5 bills.
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kool-aid
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 08/28/03
Posts: 1100
Loc: sf/sc
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I'm surprised to hear the news about the matuse suits.
I've been through a couple since they came out and they've all worked out for me.
I esp like my 08 5/4/3, to me its the perfect suit. It keeps me pretty warm on the days that are in the forties with gale force off shores. But its still really light and dries relatively fast in these parts. Its also really easy to get on and off, which is really important if you're on the go.
But i agree with the delicacy. Mine is also starting to have seams separate and one hole in the chest has opened. But only a few trickles of water get in so its not that bothersome.
From the wisdom on the board sounds like i'll get someone local to fix it.
My next suit will be a hooded drylock though. I've decided I like to be warm.
Also, i alternate between 3 and 5 mil booties. The 5's are new this year and it keeps you a lot warmer.
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Oceanslide
Miki Dora status
Reged: 03/04/08
Posts: 5249
Loc: Oceanside, CA
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I have been wearing a 4/3 Boz 'Comp' for the past month
or so (trading off with a 3/2 Xcel Infinity), mostly during
dawn sessions. I'll just go with positives and negatives
as I see 'em.
Positives:
- GREAT materials. Very stretchy/flexible/comfortable/range-of-motion.
Probably the most impressive materials I've had in any suit.
- Harry gives great customer service and I can drive to his
place if needed.
- Great price for what you get.
- Pretty warm, even with cold offshores in the a.m.
- Easy to get on/off
- Dries faster than my Xcel
- The leg key pocket is super convenient and easy.
Negatives:
- Fit seems to vary from suit to suit way more than with
other brands. I'd strongly recommend trying the suit on before buying. Mine fits pretty well, but it could be better.
- Neck closure, or lack of. This suit has a zipper that
goes all the way up to the top of the neck, with no velcro
closure across the neck, meaning if the cut doesn't fit
your neck perfectly, it will let in some water. This seems
to be the biggest complaint from others as well.
- Zipper seems to 'pull' down a bit in the back. Again,
this is probably more of a fit issue, but another user has
mentioned the same to me.
- Due to the water leaking into the neck, I do NOT like
wearing the suit while bodysurfing. End up getting flooded
way to easily and freezing my arse off. Not much of an
issue while surfing though.
Overall, I think it's a very good suit for the money and,
with the materials used, could be an outstanding suit if
the issues above are resolved and I could get a slightly
better fit (I'm in a Large...the LT had way too much
material in the torso).
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"Surfing reminds us of how good life is."
Oceansliding
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Havoc
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/10/07
Posts: 10001
Loc: The OC Life
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I've been using a 4/3 quiksilver ignite during the dawn patrols. I'm going w/ a thicker suit but I have only used booties once this entire winter. Not needed otherwise.
The suit is holding up great, very flexible in terms of paddling, but very stiff and constricting around the neck. Heck, I'm 5'10 and about 155 lbs and the suit is a Medium. They def'ly run a bit smaller in the neck area. But I can't really complain about a $140 suit.
For Matuse, I wantd to buy one of their vintage suits. Sent them 2 e-mails about available sizes. Never got a reply and just saif forget it.
My next suit(s) will be an xcel drylock 4/3 for the dawn patrols and trips up north and/or also an O'neil Psycho 1.
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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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Q_Surf
Tom Curren status
Reged: 05/05/03
Posts: 14509
Loc: world's largest oregon
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just recieved my box of boz today. 5/4 thermoboss hooded frontzip. i'm 6' 190lbs and the L fits me perfect. there is a small amount of loose neo material just in the armpit area that initially got my attention but i learned why it's there when i made paddling motions.
the (dry) boz is recognizably lighter and less bulky than the patagonia R4 that i just returned. i returned the R4 because i found a 1.5" cut/tear in the sharkskin neoprene near my hip (didn't notice it in the dim dressing room at the shop) and the suit had not even been surfed in yet. seems to me that the non-nylon covered sharkskin material is always the weak point of suits that have it.
i'm very happy to report the 5/4 boz is the most flexible and nonrestrictive suit ever i've had on - including 4/3's. (* though i have not pulled a matuse suit on higher than my lower torso). arm/shoulder rotation is much better than i've ever felt.
build quality seams really good - time will tell. hopefully it's warm and there are no neck flushing issues.
i'll add more review after i get it wet a few times.
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Nature's finest transportation
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 5000
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Surprised, also, to hear all the negatives on Matuse. I've got nothing but love for their product.
I'm still using my '07 4/3/2 to GREAT success. That is an outstanding suit. Heck, I used it today. I was sweating my a$$ off in it. That suit is like a 4/3, but stretchier.
My '08 is an above-average suit, but the older one is still by far the best & warmest. My '08 is not as warm -- it's more of a glorified 3/2, which is how I described it to a friend. It's akin to a really stretchy and comfy 3/2 with a bit of extra warmth.
I'm very happy with Matuse. Zero material issues. Zero zipper issues. Only slight seam issue is a minor underarm thing on the '08. The '07 is flawless. Maybe I got lucky... but I don't think that's the case. I can't wait to demo the new chest zips!
-ShShSh
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Gone. Send hate mail to me at: ShShSh
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Blacks
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 02/08/09
Posts: 444
Loc: East Coast, Great White North
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It is Friday and I've had a few drinks and I haven't re-read the basis of the original post in quite some time but a whole bunch of this post is silly if you are talking about cold water. There is only one wetsuit suited (pun intended) for actual "cold water" XCEL, XCEL, XCEL. Done. 'Nuff said. Not talking about cold water in Cali., Florida, etc. because I really don't feel that is cold water: it is, at best/worst, tepid water. I will, however, point out that their quality (Xcel) has gone downhill somewhat in the last couple of years (bought up by Billabong?). Still they are warmest/best suits for cold water without some battery pack. There is a growing group of people up here who feel that West suits are pretty solid. Matuse wetsuits are being used up here with varying opinions- warmth isn't justifying cost based on what I'm hearing most of the time.
Any folks in cold water locations want to chime in?
Edited by Blacks (01/08/10 05:13 PM)
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pgr
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 03/13/04
Posts: 446
Loc: on the beach
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My 08 Matuse Fullsuit has been solid. I usually destroy suits fairly quickly, and this one is holding up great. No problems whatsoever.
Sad to hear about all the quality issues people are having, sounds like they cut corners for 09?
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wildingb
Grom
Reged: 07/28/08
Posts: 149
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Quote:
Only slight seam issue is a minor underarm thing on the '08. The '07 is flawless. Maybe I got lucky... but I don't think that's the case. I can't wait to demo the new chest zips!
-ShShSh
Is the minor underarm thing a split between the 4mm and 3mm parts of the suit? The whole seam, along the bottom of the back to under the arms, has split. Only the tape is preventing major water entry.
I found the LS suit tight for my chest and shoulders - i am 5'9" and 175. Do you mind mentioning if you are at the bottom or top of their suggested size ranges?
The tightness has got better as the person in the shop promised. Unfortunately that has coincided with the seam split.
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stu dog
Duke status
Reged: 01/15/03
Posts: 21760
Loc: CA
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Quote:
Quote:
Only slight seam issue is a minor underarm thing on the '08. The '07 is flawless. Maybe I got lucky... but I don't think that's the case. I can't wait to demo the new chest zips!
-ShShSh
Is the minor underarm thing a split between the 4mm and 3mm parts of the suit? The whole seam, along the bottom of the back to under the arms, has split. Only the tape is preventing major water entry.
I found the LS suit tight for my chest and shoulders - i am 5'9" and 175. Do you mind mentioning if you are at the bottom or top of their suggested size ranges?
The tightness has got better as the person in the shop promised. Unfortunately that has coincided with the seam split.
a design flaw
a weak point to place a horizontal seam across your rib cage with all the paddling it's just a matter of time before it fails and breaks apart
any other companies use horizontal seams on the body? I’ll have to check my suit.
sounds like Matuse has to go back to the drawing board
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heelnipstr
Billy Hamilton status
Reged: 07/29/09
Posts: 1485
Loc: Southern Tip, Norcal
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Mine was bought as a Vintage 08. Size wise I fell right in the middle of their rec's. It was very tight in the chest at first but stretched out after a few sessions. I guess that stretch came from the seams.
Design flaw or I am thinking they are just saving $ on construction? I am now using a 4/3 Hotline that is 14 months old. I sent it one back because the seams failed on the chest panel after 4 weeks. Since than it has been in the garage for a good 8 months but has at least 5 months of use. The seams now show no wear.
I am thinking these companies are taking the position most of the users of their suits don't actually use them that much, so they can use cheaper glues or construction techniques. And then the ?% of actual surfers who burn through the suit, they will just deal with through warranty.
emailed the ceo of matuse, no response.
--------------------
"Disbelief in magic can force a poor soul into believing in government and business."
- Tom Robbins
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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Quote:
Mine was bought as a Vintage 08. Size wise I fell right in the middle of their rec's. It was very tight in the chest at first but stretched out after a few sessions. I guess that stretch came from the seams.
Design flaw or I am thinking they are just saving $ on construction? I am now using a 4/3 Hotline that is 14 months old. I sent it one back because the seams failed on the chest panel after 4 weeks. Since than it has been in the garage for a good 8 months but has at least 5 months of use. The seams now show no wear.
I am thinking these companies are taking the position most of the users of their suits don't actually use them that much, so they can use cheaper glues or construction techniques. And then the ?% of actual surfers who burn through the suit, they will just deal with through warranty.
emailed the ceo of matuse, no response.
Please don't take offense but if the suit is too tight in the chest it doesn't fit you right and you should of bought something else. Where did you expect it to stretch? When the seams stretch beyond what they should, they come apart.
Believe me I've had my fair share of issues with wetsuits but I would never blame a seam failure on the Mfg. if the suit was admittedly too small.
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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heelnipstr
Billy Hamilton status
Reged: 07/29/09
Posts: 1485
Loc: Southern Tip, Norcal
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Quote:
Quote:
Mine was bought as a Vintage 08. Size wise I fell right in the middle of their rec's. It was very tight in the chest at first but stretched out after a few sessions. I guess that stretch came from the seams.
Design flaw or I am thinking they are just saving $ on construction? I am now using a 4/3 Hotline that is 14 months old. I sent it one back because the seams failed on the chest panel after 4 weeks. Since than it has been in the garage for a good 8 months but has at least 5 months of use. The seams now show no wear.
I am thinking these companies are taking the position most of the users of their suits don't actually use them that much, so they can use cheaper glues or construction techniques. And then the ?% of actual surfers who burn through the suit, they will just deal with through warranty.
emailed the ceo of matuse, no response.
Please don't take offense but if the suit is too tight in the chest it doesn't fit you right and you should of bought something else. Where did you expect it to stretch? When the seams stretch beyond what they should, they come apart.
Believe me I've had my fair share of issues with wetsuits but I would never blame a seam failure on the Mfg. if the suit was admittedly too small.
I am not taking offense and I hope I am not coming off as a whining bitch. The salesman said the suit is supposed to fit tight and will stretch out over use.
The size range is 165-180 I weigh 170 and certainly do not have an abnormal size chest. They do not offer a recommended chest measurement. If the seams failed because of improper fit, maybe so, a good test will be if they fail again after they fix them.(and I will not send it back)
Anyway I am just stating my experience and purposely trying to stay away from my opinion(so much for that). Seam failures are not surprising to me but telling me a part of the material fails because of duck diving and is not covered under warranty is straight bshit. That issue kills it for me. If it was a $200 suit w/ these problems no big deal, move-on find something that works better.
They advertise and charge as a high-end premium suit. I was happy with what I understood I bought and the price I paid. The product I purchased did not perform as good as a suit at 2/3 the price IMO.
Also IMHO, the internets is a great resource for us to share our experiences concerning these issues good and bad.
Maybe the suit is just a lemon or I have moobs and am in denial, it happens but I would expect a lot better customer service.
--------------------
"Disbelief in magic can force a poor soul into believing in government and business."
- Tom Robbins
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RickVTA
Nep status
Reged: 05/18/09
Posts: 640
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I have an email from one of the Matuse guys telling me not to worry about an ill fitting suit because it will stretch to fit me after a couple uses. The suit I tried on was really tight in the chest and armpits.
I couldn't believe what I was reading and was really bummed that they would resort to absolute lies to sell product. He may as well told me the black suit would soon enough become white if that's what I wanted.
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silentbutdeadly
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 11821
Loc: Tower 13
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Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Mine was bought as a Vintage 08. Size wise I fell right in the middle of their rec's. It was very tight in the chest at first but stretched out after a few sessions. I guess that stretch came from the seams.
Design flaw or I am thinking they are just saving $ on construction? I am now using a 4/3 Hotline that is 14 months old. I sent it one back because the seams failed on the chest panel after 4 weeks. Since than it has been in the garage for a good 8 months but has at least 5 months of use. The seams now show no wear.
I am thinking these companies are taking the position most of the users of their suits don't actually use them that much, so they can use cheaper glues or construction techniques. And then the ?% of actual surfers who burn through the suit, they will just deal with through warranty.
emailed the ceo of matuse, no response.
Please don't take offense but if the suit is too tight in the chest it doesn't fit you right and you should of bought something else. Where did you expect it to stretch? When the seams stretch beyond what they should, they come apart.
Believe me I've had my fair share of issues with wetsuits but I would never blame a seam failure on the Mfg. if the suit was admittedly too small.
I am not taking offense and I hope I am not coming off as a whining bitch. The salesman said the suit is supposed to fit tight and will stretch out over use.
The size range is 165-180 I weigh 170 and certainly do not have an abnormal size chest. They do not offer a recommended chest measurement. If the seams failed because of improper fit, maybe so, a good test will be if they fail again after they fix them.(and I will not send it back)
Anyway I am just stating my experience and purposely trying to stay away from my opinion(so much for that). Seam failures are not surprising to me but telling me a part of the material fails because of duck diving and is not covered under warranty is straight bshit. That issue kills it for me. If it was a $200 suit w/ these problems no big deal, move-on find something that works better.
They advertise and charge as a high-end premium suit. I was happy with what I understood I bought and the price I paid. The product I purchased did not perform as good as a suit at 2/3 the price IMO.
Also IMHO, the internets is a great resource for us to share our experiences concerning these issues good and bad.
Maybe the suit is just a lemon or I have moobs and am in denial, it happens but I would expect a lot better customer service.
Fair enough. Just something to consider and I am glad you did.
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Thou shall not commit adulthood
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 5000
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Quote:
Quote:
Only slight seam issue is a minor underarm thing on the '08. The '07 is flawless. Maybe I got lucky... but I don't think that's the case. I can't wait to demo the new chest zips!
-ShShSh
Is the minor underarm thing a split between the 4mm and 3mm parts of the suit? The whole seam, along the bottom of the back to under the arms, has split. Only the tape is preventing major water entry.
I found the LS suit tight for my chest and shoulders - i am 5'9" and 175. Do you mind mentioning if you are at the bottom or top of their suggested size ranges?
The tightness has got better as the person in the shop promised. Unfortunately that has coincided with the seam split.
I call it a minor underarm thing because it's not a seam split. It is literally just a couple drips of water and I can't figure out where it's coming in (although it is along a seam line). I feel it when I first get in, then it goes away pretty quickly. Mind you, this is my less warm of the 2 suits. The older one is far and away the best suit I've ever had.
As for the post that we're not talking about COLD water... you're right. For the wetsuits we deal with in most of CA, we're talking wintertime temps of between 45 at the low and 65 at the high. I do surf in 45 water temps, and the 4/3/2 Matuse with hood and booties keeps me happy.
As for RickVTA, your body type (that'd be somewhere between Quasimodo and Shaq) is ill suited for Matuse suits. Someone had to say it. I'm sorry buddy.
-S
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Gone. Send hate mail to me at: ShShSh
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RickVTA
Nep status
Reged: 05/18/09
Posts: 640
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Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Only slight seam issue is a minor underarm thing on the '08. The '07 is flawless. Maybe I got lucky... but I don't think that's the case. I can't wait to demo the new chest zips!
-ShShSh
Is the minor underarm thing a split between the 4mm and 3mm parts of the suit? The whole seam, along the bottom of the back to under the arms, has split. Only the tape is preventing major water entry.
I found the LS suit tight for my chest and shoulders - i am 5'9" and 175. Do you mind mentioning if you are at the bottom or top of their suggested size ranges?
The tightness has got better as the person in the shop promised. Unfortunately that has coincided with the seam split.
I call it a minor underarm thing because it's not a seam split. It is literally just a couple drips of water and I can't figure out where it's coming in (although it is along a seam line). I feel it when I first get in, then it goes away pretty quickly. Mind you, this is my less warm of the 2 suits. The older one is far and away the best suit I've ever had.
As for the post that we're not talking about COLD water... you're right. For the wetsuits we deal with in most of CA, we're talking wintertime temps of between 45 at the low and 65 at the high. I do surf in 45 water temps, and the 4/3/2 Matuse with hood and booties keeps me happy.
As for RickVTA, your body type (that'd be somewhere between Quasimodo and Shaq) is ill suited for Matuse suits. Someone had to say it. I'm sorry buddy.
-S
I'm not even Catholic, but am black from the waist down.
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 5000
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Only slight seam issue is a minor underarm thing on the '08. The '07 is flawless. Maybe I got lucky... but I don't think that's the case. I can't wait to demo the new chest zips!
-ShShSh
Is the minor underarm thing a split between the 4mm and 3mm parts of the suit? The whole seam, along the bottom of the back to under the arms, has split. Only the tape is preventing major water entry.
I found the LS suit tight for my chest and shoulders - i am 5'9" and 175. Do you mind mentioning if you are at the bottom or top of their suggested size ranges?
The tightness has got better as the person in the shop promised. Unfortunately that has coincided with the seam split.
I call it a minor underarm thing because it's not a seam split. It is literally just a couple drips of water and I can't figure out where it's coming in (although it is along a seam line). I feel it when I first get in, then it goes away pretty quickly. Mind you, this is my less warm of the 2 suits. The older one is far and away the best suit I've ever had.
As for the post that we're not talking about COLD water... you're right. For the wetsuits we deal with in most of CA, we're talking wintertime temps of between 45 at the low and 65 at the high. I do surf in 45 water temps, and the 4/3/2 Matuse with hood and booties keeps me happy.
As for RickVTA, your body type (that'd be somewhere between Quasimodo and Shaq) is ill suited for Matuse suits. Someone had to say it. I'm sorry buddy.
-S
I'm not even Catholic, but am black from the waist down.
Pretty much gave you that one on a silver platter, didn't I?
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Gone. Send hate mail to me at: ShShSh
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shred_the_gnar
Nep status
Reged: 01/01/06
Posts: 755
Loc: CA
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Quote:
I have an email from one of the Matuse guys telling me not to worry about an ill fitting suit because it will stretch to fit me after a couple uses. The suit I tried on was really tight in the chest and armpits.
I couldn't believe what I was reading and was really bummed that they would resort to absolute lies to sell product. He may as well told me the black suit would soon enough become white if that's what I wanted.
I have an '09 Matuse 3.2.2 I got for free from a buddy. It is a Medium. I am 5'9" 160 and the thing was tight as fvck around the chest when I first got it. Stretched out a bit and fits like a glove.
It isn't as warm as I thought it was going to be. I would get the 4.3.2 next time around. I'm in North OC, but dawn patrol it before work for most of my sessions.
If I was gonna buy a suit for a full pop, I'd go Patagonia next time and give it a try.
On another note, I haven't worn my Xcel 4.3 Chest Zip Drylock once this season. So I guess it is doing the trick.
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[url=http://surfandestroy.blogspot.com[/url]
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pwf
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 11/30/08
Posts: 195
Loc: Delmarva
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Spring suit -bottom of the line 2mm short sleeve long pant Body Glove I love this suit. But that could be because it is for warmer water
Cool-Cold 06-07 Psycho 2 A little stiff when dry. pretty good once its been used once after the summer/fall. Durable. I really don't like the flush gaurd neoprene in the zen-zip closure. It gets stuck down my back when putting on my suit. A hassle if your alone.
Winter is 6/5/4 Xcell Infinity series. SUPER warm. Flex is nice. durable. The zipperless entry is a hassle to get OUT of. I liked the old style shoulder to shoulder chest zips from the 80's. My next suit will be that hotline model with the old style zip. Thats my only beef with this suit. Great suit, never been cold in it.
I've had a lot of suits. Started winter surfing in NJ in 1986-87 doubling up in 2 Oneil 3-2 ono's. So with that as a starting place modern suits are wonderful. I am hoping the heated vest (quicksilver) technology proves viable. At 41 I'm liking the cold less and less.
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originalsin
Grom
Reged: 02/04/09
Posts: 80
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Just wanted chime in on this thread.
I recently just bought a Hotline 5/4 Ultra Hot Combo Wetsuit and I could not be happier!
I surf in cold waters in the Pacific NW and wore almost exclusively O'Neill. Also, most of my suits have been back entry. The chest entry on the Hotline is WAY easier. The neoprene is super thick, softer and stretchier than the last O'Neill suit I bought(maybe last suit didn't have the new stretch material). But most importantly, I always found wetsuits too tight in the shoulders, I have broad shoulders. The Hotline XL Stocky size is awesome fit.
Take care, hope this helps out someone.
T.
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stu dog
Duke status
Reged: 01/15/03
Posts: 21760
Loc: CA
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Quote:
I have broad shoulders. The Hotline XL Stocky size is awesome fit.
how tall are you
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Syd
Grom
Reged: 10/15/06
Posts: 103
Loc: Australia
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http://www.seventhwave.co.nz/
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lorcar
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 11/20/08
Posts: 1016
Loc: flatMed
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Quote:
I am about to pull the trigger on a new wetsuit, and choosing among these 4, chestzip models:
1- Xcel Infinity Xzip
2- Xcel Infinity Drylock (I read that the Xzip is somehow more comfortable)
3- West Lotus (tried the M size, it left a huge gap in the back so I am thinking going with the MS, I am 5'11'' and 150lb. It was a superpain to get in and out, i still have the zip scar on my arm)
4- Ripcurl E3 e-bomb (not the Pro model w/o Aquaban liquid seal. I can find both the 2009 and 2010 model: do you know the difference?)
after reading much, I'd say they are all comparable, and read great reviews on each of them. Only problem is that I tried only the Ripcurl M size (fitting very well, just the neck a bit too tight) and the West in the M size as above, with huge gap behind. So I am a bit afraid of buying something online I didnt try, and where I live it's not easy at all
finally yesterday I pulled the trigger on the West Lotus Chestzip, MS size, 5/4mm. I am crossing the finger hoping the size is correct: according to their chart is going to be a bit on the short size (I am 5'11) but my weight doesnt fall in the M range, so when I tried the M I had two empty bags in front of me and on my back. I bought from an online retailer which didnt charge a shipping fee, because I fear I will have to return it. In case it's too short, or too much pain to get into it, I will probably get the Ebomb as I know their M is good for me. Also very tempted by the Xcel, but -again- I am an MS size for the weight and an M size for the height. Same damn problem.
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Mr Doof
Tom Curren status
Reged: 01/23/02
Posts: 10408
Loc: San Francisco, CA
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Has anyone tried (or heard of) Isurus wetsuits?
More Yamamoto rubber....and a company rep emailed me to say that they have a LTSlim model (this after me telling him O'Neil generally fit me the best but Xcel makes a longer wearing/lasting suit).
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 5000
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Quote:
Has anyone tried (or heard of) Isurus wetsuits?
More Yamamoto rubber....and a company rep emailed me to say that they have a LTSlim model (this after me telling him O'Neil generally fit me the best but Xcel makes a longer wearing/lasting suit).
Picking one upon Sunday to give a shot. Feedback to follow.
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Gone. Send hate mail to me at: ShShSh
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feralseppo
Nep status
Reged: 02/28/06
Posts: 581
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Quote:
Picking one upon Sunday to give a shot. Feedback to follow.
How much do these suits cost?
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 5000
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Quote:
Quote:
Picking one upon Sunday to give a shot. Feedback to follow.
How much do these suits cost?
They're not really released yet. I'm told when they're released they're probably going to be priced around the Matuse/Patagonia range.
-ShShSh
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Gone. Send hate mail to me at: ShShSh
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donniedarko
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/26/04
Posts: 2069
Loc: The Coast
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Wish I would sound more exotic.
Psycho I in 3/2 and 4/3. I have both and am pretty satisfied.
I got rid of my PsychoFreak because I felt like I couldnt breathe. In tech terms in was inhibiting thoracsic expansion. To bad, incredibly warm suit.
The Psycho I's are uber comfortable, and neoprene has amazing elasticity. Best Oneill suits I have ever had.
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face the mirror...
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Havoc
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/10/07
Posts: 10001
Loc: The OC Life
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Quote:
Wish I would sound more exotic.
Psycho I in 3/2 and 4/3. I have both and am pretty satisfied.
I got rid of my PsychoFreak because I felt like I couldnt breathe. In tech terms in was inhibiting thoracsic expansion. To bad, incredibly warm suit.
The Psycho I's are uber comfortable, and neoprene has amazing elasticity. Best Oneill suits I have ever had.
yo DonnieDarko, what up meng!
what year are your psycho 1's? the new ones have no smoothskin, wondering if you get a bit cold in those is the wind is up? killer suits and I'm likely gonna get a 3/2 once they go on sale.
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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ifallalot
Duke status
Reged: 12/17/08
Posts: 18398
Loc: Carlsbad, CA
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I just got a Hyperflex 5/4/3 Flow yesterday and I thihk is a very well made suite and the price is great as well $224 plus tax .
The suite fits really well and the seams are Glued , & Taped and blind stiched. The honey comb fleece layering inside on the chest and in the hood feel really good and make the suite feel extra cozy. The cuffs around the ends of the sleeves and legs are really strechy and make I nice snug fit around boots and gloves. The 6 way strech in this thing is amazing the suite fits so well it almost like it my own skin. I havent had a chance to give it a water test yet but if its like any of my other Hyperflex suits it will be very warm and durable
They have a good warrenty and are based out of NJ so I like the fact I and supporting a local buisness. There facotry is like 45 min from my house so "if" I every had a issue I could just drive it to the facotry to get fixed rather than mail it.
I got one in mid-January and I love it. Very, very warm; warm enough that I've ditched booties. My Xcel Drylok 4/3 is more comfortable in the flex aspect as well as with the feeling that nothing is on, but that may be due to the fact that its a 4/3 instead of a 5/43 like the Hyperflex. Great suit for the price, great suit anyway. I highly recommend it for cold water surfers
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the graphics portray the hawks prey battling death
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Brrr
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 03/04/08
Posts: 403
Loc: New England
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I just picked up a 5/4/3 Xcel drylock with bamboo lining. I was using a 6/4/3 Psycho II and Quik 6/5/4 with the yellow stuff in it. The Psycho is decent, I like the back zip for easy entry, but it's kind of cold on the really cold days here. I use the Quik for the brutally cold, low 20's or really windy.
Back to the Xcel. The suit felt like butter, really stretchy. Felt like a 3/2 compared to my other suits. This morning was about 28 when I left the house, water around 39, slightly overcast, light wind for once. I didn't stay super busy and didn't really get cold once, except for 6 duckdives paddling out  , just my face though. I got a deal on the suit, so I got new boots with it, together they formed a nice seal. My feet stayed pretty toasty, felt cold after about 2 hours, but I wasn't staying real busy. Waves were mushy and breaking like crap, I really wanted to test the suit for warmth, I didn't believe the 5 mil would be enough. I was curious about Boz, but I got a good deal on this, which would have cost about the same as a Boz with shipping, and I could try this one on. I tried a Ripcurl and a Quik for comparison and the Xcel was by far more flexible, which was my goal. My 6 mil Quik feels so heavy and restrictive, I wish that were a 5/4 with all the yellow stuff. I have heard some complaints about Xcel this year, but that seems to be the popular suit in the Northeast, plus the shop said they will stand behind it, so far I am stoked
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Mr Doof
Tom Curren status
Reged: 01/23/02
Posts: 10408
Loc: San Francisco, CA
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Picking one upon Sunday to give a shot. Feedback to follow.
How much do these suits cost?
The one I tried to try on had a MSRP of $492, or was that $494.
I was unsuccessful in gaining full entry through the Isurus...I felt that if I kept trying, I would break a seam or put my finger through the neoprene.
The fit is very close tolerance, the finish work done well, but, stressing the suit that much to just get it over one shoulder gives me the heebeejeebees. It only got worse when I tried different methods of trying to get it on.
It should be noted that I was able to get in and out of the first generation no-zip wetsuits, so I know the 'tricks' that need to be performed and I am still as limber as I was back then.
I have no doubt people will be able to use these suits, but it will not be me.
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c_olden
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 09/04/07
Posts: 3225
Loc: (48°52.6′S 123°23.6̸...
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Quote:
Quote:
Quote:
Picking one upon Sunday to give a shot. Feedback to follow.
How much do these suits cost?
The one I tried to try on had a MSRP of $492, or was that $494.
I was unsuccessful in gaining full entry through the Isurus...I felt that if I kept trying, I would break a seam or put my finger through the neoprene.
The fit is very close tolerance, the finish work done well, but, stressing the suit that much to just get it over one shoulder gives me the heebeejeebees. It only got worse when I tried different methods of trying to get it on.
It should be noted that I was able to get in and out of the first generation no-zip wetsuits, so I know the 'tricks' that need to be performed and I am still as limber as I was back then.
I have no doubt people will be able to use these suits, but it will not be me.
hmmm...
i saw one at NorCal in P-Town and was intrigued, but they didn't
have one in my size to test out.(suit was out in the water that day)
i haven't had a chance to go back and try it out.
at this point, when i buy a new suit this spring, i have no ***** idea
what suit i'm gonna buy. it seems as if every suit "sucks" according to
someone(s).
i doubt i'll buy another Matuse based on the problems people
seem to be having with them falling apart; i won't buy an o'neill
'cause they're just too damn heavy(same goes for Patagonia).
i dunno, maybe a new Excel?
or one of the new quiksilver cyphers?
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"The phone's for you. I think it's the Devil..."
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daave
Nep status
Reged: 12/28/02
Posts: 621
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"The high-end materials choice will only get you so far, and Isurus has taken it a step further, pairing the best in Japanese neoprene with the highest-quality Chinese (ISO 9002-certified) manufacturer."
Never understood this. Matuse does the same thing. Market themselves as a high-end product, hype the japanese materials, and then manufacture in China.
As I have posted many times before, you can get a handmade, CUSTOM japanese wetsuit for less than any of the chinese-made brands. The materials and construction blow the China stuff away
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Havoc
Tom Curren status
Reged: 09/10/07
Posts: 10001
Loc: The OC Life
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"The high-end materials choice will only get you so far, and Isurus has taken it a step further, pairing the best in Japanese neoprene with the highest-quality Chinese (ISO 9002-certified) manufacturer."
Never understood this. Matuse does the same thing. Market themselves as a high-end product, hype the japanese materials, and then manufacture in China.
As I have posted many times before, you can get a handmade, CUSTOM japanese wetsuit for less than any of the chinese-made brands. The materials and construction blow the China stuff away
which suits? I know future wave is one company, and previously airtight (don't know if they're still around), and of course axxe.
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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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Lowrider
Grom
Reged: 02/20/10
Posts: 89
Loc: ExCxNxJx
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I ve been using the Xcel 5/4 drylock this winter and I have to say its one of the warmest and most comfortable winter suits Ive had.My only concern was there durability which I have heard complaints about .So far so good...It dries pretty quick for a 5/4 and to date there have been no rashes either.I was out Sat after the Blizard here for 4.5 hrs and left the 38 deg water still in good shape,but it was kinda warm out 42 deg air temp.Another balmy Winter day in Jersey....
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www.sharkinletcharters.com
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joshmosh
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 03/09/05
Posts: 1342
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I got a new Hotline 5/4 Reflex for this winter and I am sad to say that I'm not very impressed. I've always heard people rave about Hotline's winter suits so I thought I'd give them a try. The fit is great and the materials seem durable, but that's where it ends for me.
I've used it only 6-7 times and here's what I've found:
-The legs/crotch area are leaky and I'm cold almost instantly
-Some of the back seams are leaking already
-Water gets in through the zipper and through the hood, and with no gator flap I get water leaking in, even when duckdiving little waves.
-The knee pads are flimsy and probably aren't going to last very long
This is actually the second suit I've had from hotline, and I should have learned my lesson. On the first suit, one of the knee pads tore within 4 weeks. Luckily their customer service is excellent, and they repaired it and sent it back within a week or two.
Anyway, any recommendations on a new suit are welcome at this point.
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Brrr
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 03/04/08
Posts: 403
Loc: New England
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I ve been using the Xcel 5/4 drylock this winter and I have to say its one of the warmest and most comfortable winter suits Ive had.My only concern was there durability which I have heard complaints about .So far so good...It dries pretty quick for a 5/4 and to date there have been no rashes either.I was out Sat after the Blizard here for 4.5 hrs and left the 38 deg water still in good shape,but it was kinda warm out 42 deg air temp.Another balmy Winter day in Jersey....
I was going to add the drying factor as well! I don't know how the wind has been in your area, but brutal for RI this winter, sunny but bitter-ass cold. Funny how 40 degree air with little wind feels like summer in the Northeast I hear you on the durability, but that much flex and warmth, I am willing to take the gamble. I have good luck with suits, so we'll see.
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joshmosh
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 03/09/05
Posts: 1342
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Slyda, I just saw your previous post from October. See my post above
Edited by joshmosh (03/02/10 05:41 AM)
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Mr Doof
Tom Curren status
Reged: 01/23/02
Posts: 10408
Loc: San Francisco, CA
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Re: The Great Unbiased Wetsuit Review Thread
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