ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 4944
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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MATUSE WETSUIT REVIEW.
Who?
Me: 5’10” x 160-165 pounds.
Age: 37.
Skills: Advanced. (I am not sponsored. This is an independent review.)
Normal Wetsuit Size: Medium.
What?
Matuse, Hoplite wetsuit 4/3/2.
My size in this wetsuit: LS (large short). I found, and I heard a few others mention, that these suits run a hair smaller than the stated size. I was advised this was purposeful, as Matuse wanted a more secure fit in their suits.
Why?
I’ve used many different styles of wetsuits. This one, however, stands head and shoulders above the others. Not just by a bit, but by miles. It really feels to be the next (r)evolution in wetsuits. (This suit is so far superior to any other suit I’ve worn, I felt I had to tell you sorry bunch of erBB’ers. Sorry this isn’t a board review.)
So, Where’s the review? Right here, but in three parts.
Chapter One: The History. I’ve used a number of different style wetsuits over the years. From Victory, to Body Glove, to Rip Curl, to O’Neill, to Billabong, to Xcel, to Hotline; if it’s been sold domestically, chances are I’ve at least tried it – even Quiksilver, BreakerOut, and a few others I can’t remember. As I got older, I began trading flexibility for durability, bells & whistles for warmth. I was sick of O’Nell & Xcel suits not fitting right, Victory went in-&-out of business, Rip Curls & Billabongs never lasted. I settled quite happily on the durability of Hotline suits. Sure they got heavier than all hell, but they lasted, so I believed I got my money’s worth.
Still, I felt I was missing something better. But what? I bought a Patagonia, dazzled by their sales pitch of more warmth with less rubber. Not. What they failed to mention was a suit that was stiffer than any other, with a terribly uncomfortable neck seal, poor zippers, and internal glue that literally tore at my skin.
Then I heard about another limestone neoprene wetsuit, and thought, “Gimmick. Why bother?”
Chapter Two: And then… And then I read a review from someone I respected: Brownfish. He raved about his 2/2 short sleeve full. After that, I spoke with the guys at CI and was set-up with a first generation Matuse suit. I was openly told this was the first generation, it wasn’t perfect, but I was asked to provide honest and objective feedback to them. (Since I enjoy doing that, I was only too happy to give it an experiment.)
Hands down, this was a much better suit than the Patagonia, but it had some issues. The shoulders felt a little tight, I didn’t like the neck seam, and I felt the key loop was a bit too “old school.” The suit was super light and warm; in short, it was a very good suit, but not great.
But that’s only half the story. Remember, I said that that suit was a “first generation” Hoplite. Based on feedback, Matuse adjusted their issues and made the NEW MATUSE HOPLITE 4/3/2 FULLSUIT. THIS SUIT RULES. PERIOD. I bought it in a heartbeat!
Chapter Three: THE Superior Wetsuit.
The new Hoplite took all the good from generation one, fixed the neck seam, fixed the shoulder cut, and made what I feel is hands down the single best wetsuit on the market. I no longer have to settle for anything. With the lighter and softer rubber, I feel like I can do things with my surfing that old suits never allowed. I don’t get cold, I stay out longer, and I feel free in my suit. I live in 4/3 & booties territory, occasionally with a hood, yet I feel like I’m surfing in a spring suit!
This suit is incredibly warm, incredibly smooth, and incredibly flexible. The rubber feels like silk. It dries lightening fast. You don’t have to bend and twist to get into it. The cut is secure and moves with the human body. And, honestly, it also just looks pretty damn cool. This suit is amazing! I cannot recommend it enough!
Misc.
Geoprene -- the limestone neoprene used by Matuse -- is the real deal. The hollow rubber (“Hidden Chamber Technology”) feels outrageous, but you know it’s working when you’re in the water. My lower back stays warm, meaning I don’t chill as would eventually happen in my other suits. These suits retail at about $450, and are well worth it. It should be more than that, but people might not realize what an incredible deal it still is! I can’t wait to try the soon-to-be-released 3/2 full for summer up here (think: Jalama), and I’m willing to bet it’ll be incredibly warm.
The only tentative comment I can think of with this suit is the key holder. It’s an average, behind the back-zip, key loop. To get out your key, you need to unzip and take off the top portion of the suit. Maybe that’s okay in San Diego or Orange or LA Counties, but up here and points north I do not want to take off my suit any sooner than I have to. I hope Matuse can develop an external key pocket (ex/ ankle) to make average Joes like me happy. Or come up with something else equally cool. That right there is the only tentative comment, and it's really nothing. I love this wetsuit!
Recommended For: Everyone. Yup... everyone. You deserve it, the suit will last, and it will make you surf better! What’s not to love?!
And last but not least, the photos:
Front:
 
Back:
[You didn’t really think I’d post a photo of a used wetsuit, did you? These are some current favorites from the quiver. Zamora (PSiDAWD) 5’10” quad, CI 6’0” MX, and Point Concept (Surferguy800) 6'3" HP Bonzer5.]
For more info, go here: www.matuse.com
Thanks for indulging another of my semi-annual too long &  posts. With my upcoming surgery, I didn’t want to delay on spreading the good word. I heart Matuse.
-ShShSh
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Back to lurking...
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SurfingLamb
Rabbitt Bartholomew status
Reged: 06/29/04
Posts: 9163
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Cmon Steve  I was hoping to see pics of you modeling the Matuse.
Regardless, I'm seriously considering throwing down the money for one of these. After my second Oneill Guruu has just about outlived it's life (2 suits in 3 years) - I think it's time to try something new. Maybe a longer suit life can justify throwing down a larger chunk of change on keeping warm. That, and the 6/4 I got at Marshalls just isn't even surfable 
Anyway, good review 
Aloha
Bryan
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http://bryansbarrelhunter.blogspot.com/
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Surfjunkie
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 05/06/05
Posts: 2058
Loc: Earth People
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It's so weird you posted this today, I was just think about my Matuse on the drive in today.
BEST DAMN FULL-SUIT I EVER HAD ! 
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surfer57
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 10/05/07
Posts: 1299
Loc: NJ
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I'm thinking about the hoplite short arm full. But there isn't anywhere to get one around here, and I don't know if I'd spend the extra just for a SS full. All these reviews make me want one though, good rubber at this time of year is very important around here.
Peace,
Kyle
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Formerly SurfCityNJ, I'm back
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c_olden
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 09/04/07
Posts: 1161
Loc: Pole of Inaccessibility
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hey,
Would a 4:3:2 work up here in NorCal?(S.F, HMB, S.C. and
other points north)
I love how toasty my O'Neill 6/5/4 is(I can stay out all
day), but it's definitely a tougher paddle.
co
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 4944
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Surfer57: Try contacting www.wetsand.com. Give them a call and see if they have one in stock. I'd recommend you go one 1/2 size larger than what you normally wear. Also, check out the Matuse sizing chart on their website.
C.O.: Definitely a great suit for S.C., Monterey, Carmel areas. I couldn't comment on SF or points north, as the last time I surfed up there was more than 10 years ago. I'd think so with the right booties & hood, but the call is your's. Check out what Sterling had to say on the page I linked (but take it with a grain of salt since he is sponsored by them).
Seriously, as SJ said, MATUSE ARE THE BEST SUITS MADE!
-ShShSh
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Back to lurking...
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Lefthander
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 10/23/06
Posts: 1141
Loc: San Diego
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I was hoping their suits were this good considering the price and all.
i think I just might pull the trigger on the one I've had my eye on up at Mitch's  , I feel it up every time I go in there so I think it's time
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"Fins will Come with These Boards" -GG
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Basswave
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 08/22/05
Posts: 2154
Loc: Near the Witches
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Nice review... 
Detail detail detail...
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It is what it is...
Its nothing that 6' and a Rounded pin can't fix.
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winwin
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 07/11/07
Posts: 470
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I concur with Sh's review. I'm 38 and fluctuate between 170-175lbs. Had the size LS 4/3/2 Hoplite Matuse (normally wear a Medium) for about 4 months (bought it through Wetsand). Best suit I've ever had for sure: light, warm, soft, flexible and extremely comfortable. The only thing I don't like about the suit is that there's a thin "tank top" like liner that seems to roll up everytime I finish putting on the suit. Therefore, I have to unzip and flatten out that curled up portion of the liner. Also, if it's a long session (+2.5hrs)after consecutive days of surfing, I do get a very mild soreness, maybe even a mild rash, but then again, it may be from the sun tan/burn-line around the neck.
The suit dries up rediculously fast. I'll be putting on a dry suit the next day and my O'neil booties are still wet.
I am quite sure that if you tried one of these Matuse, you'll never want to wear any other brand. I'll be looking to buy spring suit from them when the time comes.
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Caelho
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 06/10/03
Posts: 2751
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anyone know how long they last........1, 2, 3 years maybe?
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MACFISH
Nep status
Reged: 05/29/07
Posts: 712
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SOLD. When can I pick it up???.....I am about your size.
J/K
I've been wearing O'Neill's for years but I like the Matuse slick skin on top for the wind. They sound as though they absorb much less water. Getting old bones here and I am gonna go 4/3/2 'cause the 3/2's aren't cutting it anymore. Froze my rear more than once this winter.
You fit in a medium in other brands?? I've always worn the large O's but that probably due to my knuckle draggers......
Dig your reviews! Thanks!!! 
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..ready to crash and burn, I never learn.....
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Ragnar
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 02/11/02
Posts: 361
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Quote:
anyone know how long they last........1, 2, 3 years maybe?
Interested in the longevity of the suits, myself.
My Rip Curl E-Bomb is about shot after two seasons.....but for $280, I'll just pick up another one.
Is the Hoplite gonna last another year or two, and is it that much better?
Would have to be for almost $200 more.
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BrownFish
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/04/05
Posts: 2429
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Probably the best wetsuit review I have ever seen. I agree whole heartedly. I didn't get around to getting one of the first generation suits because my 2mm Hoplite Short Sleeve Full got me almost into January. I think there were actually a few days in January that I wore it with the sun out. So when it came time to pick up a first generation 4/3/2, they were all sold out. So, I waited a month or so for the new 2nd Generation Suits to hit the shops. During that time I used a couple suits that I had purchased over the summer, first being a Quicksilver suit, and second being a Rip Curl H-Bomb. After coming off such a great Matuse SS Full, it was torture to be put in those suits. I'm sure my age didn't hurt and the fact that i'm in a "Daddy" phase, and only get to surf 2-3 days a week, didn't help. Man did those suits suck. Many times I almost stopped at a shop and picked up a new suit, but luckily I didn't. If I would have, I would've ended up waiting til next year to get a Matuse 4/3/2 as finances wouldn't really allow me two new suits in one winter. Not with the wife needing the same and 3 kids to raise. So, I finally got my new suit about 3 weeks ago and couldn't be happier. I could go into all the details, but I think SHSHSHSH pretty much covered them. I couldn't agree more about the key holder, even in San Diego. So what can I say that might would make a difference you say? I've now been surfing over 25 years and am approaching 40 this August. To be honest, when wearing the Matuse Suit I feel like I can compete with all the 18-30 year olds that are usually dominating the break. I feel young, active, warm. You really can't put a price tag on that.
As for the longevity of the suit, I'm not sure why so many are asking a question that they know can't be answered. We'll tell you in a couple seasons. For now it's a leap of faith, and as I can attest to, as well as SHSHSH, you won't regret it.
I also can't wait for next seasons Hoplite 3/2. Not that the 4/3/2 is any way shape or form stiff. For that matter it is far more flexible than any 3/2 I've ever worn, but just the thought makes me happy.
The other addition to the line-up will be a Hoplite 2mm Short Sleeve Full that will be glued and taped. (The First Generation isn't, still plenty warm).
I've talked to the team at Matuse a few times and have been trying to get them to make a straight 2mm Long Sleeve glued and taped suit. I think it would get me through everything the winter throws at me in San Diego, except the coldest off-shore mornings. They haven't bitten yet. Maybe someday?
My wife also seems to be itching for a good suit. We bought her the Patagonia, but she had problems with the neck and the seems (much like SHSHSH). She loved the suit and the way it functioned, but couldn't tolerate the rash. Matuse won't be releasing a womens line until winter of 2009. They say they really want to get it right the first time around and women are far harder to fit than men. Which my wife will be the first to attest to. Hopefully, if the read this, they will speed up the womens R&D process, because, in my opinion, there is a pretty good market out for a good women's suit. Plus, a happy wife is a happy family.
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http://hand-plane.blogspot.com/
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echobch
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 05/29/03
Posts: 546
Loc: orange county
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I too bought one, they are insane. Only problem is the leg seam is coming undone already and the key loop gets caught in the zipper when a key is attached. I love the suit tho. Really warm.
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Its a cake walk !
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goldenarmes
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/31/05
Posts: 2929
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"My wife also seems to be itching for a good suit. We bought her the Patagonia, but she had problems with the neck and the seems (much like SHSHSH). She loved the suit and the way it functioned, but couldn't tolerate the rash. Matuse won't be releasing a womens line until winter of 2009. They say they really want to get it right the first time around and women are far harder to fit than men. Which my wife will be the first to attest to. Hopefully, if the read this, they will speed up the womens R&D process, because, in my opinion, there is a pretty good market out for a good women's suit. Plus, a happy wife is a happy family"
you ought to check out BOZ. Harry is a killer guy makes a great suit...yamamoto rubber blah blah....and best of all, all of the womens suits are made custom. they are an insane value.
they only reason i would ever use anything else is if the matuse suits really live up to the hype
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less hating... more surfing
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silentbutdeadly
Miki Dora status
Reged: 09/26/05
Posts: 5093
Loc: Tower 13
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Has Matuse called you yet to offer you a sales job yet?
Nice review. I will def check them out next time I need a new suit.
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obslop
Billy Hamilton status
Reged: 02/04/02
Posts: 1567
Loc: san diego, CA
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Sounds like the be-all-end-all suit. Thanks for the review. So how much do these suits cost?
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Caelho
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 06/10/03
Posts: 2751
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Quote:
As for the longevity of the suit, I'm not sure why so many are asking a question that they know can't be answered.
ok stupid question since you guys just got the suits..............."what's the warranty" would have been a better question:
Quote:
We offer a 1 year warranty from the date of purchase on Geoprene manufacturing defects. The seams of this quality product are guaranteed for the life of the Geoprene. However, this point considered, the warranty does not apply in cases where Geoprene quality is irreversibly damaged due to sun exposure, improper care, shark attack, spontaneous combustion, alien abduction, general negligence or natural aging over the course of the product’s lifetime. Accordingly, if the Geoprene is in such a state that it cannot be used for repair, the warranty will be voided. This warranty is ultimately limited to repair or replacement at the discretion of Matuse and does not include consequential damages, incidental damages or damages to person or property.
looks standard and i bet the suits will last about 2 years.....not bad.
so keep us posted on the suits, they sound really nice from the reviews, thanks for that!
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nightfly
Nep status
Reged: 05/30/04
Posts: 643
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I picked up a Matuse 4/3 in December in San Diego and while I think it's a good suit, I wasn't as impressed as everyone else seems to be. It didn't feel especially warm to me during a dusk session in San Diego in December (I was out visiting from New York where I surf all winter). I honestly didn't think it was as warm as my 4/3 Xcel when it was new at least, and thought it was more like a 3/2 Xcel.
Everything else regarding flexibility and being quick to dry is true but the warmth wasn't quite what I thought it might be. I particularly felt cold in the lower back right where the smooth skin ends. Also the liner system is a bit cumbersome and feels like it could easily rip if you were getting out of it quickly while standing in a freezing parking lot.
When the water warms up enough here in New York to use it again (April? May?), I'll give it another shot. Just thought I'd offer another opinion. I hope I like it better than my first impression since I dropped almost $500 and I hear the latest Xcels are pretty sick.
The reason I decided to try something else was that Xcel doesn't seem to fit me as good as it used to and although I have a 3/2 and a 5/4, I wanted to try something different for my 4/3 since it's my most used suit. Everything about the Matuse appealed to me, particularly the fit, but I found myself wishing it was a bit warmer which is troubling since the water in San Diego had to be in the high 50's (I never owned a 4/3 in the 10 years that I lived there) while I usually wear a 4/3 into the low 50s here at home in NY.
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jjones
Grom
Reged: 01/22/05
Posts: 51
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I agree with the review... I have been using mine all winter here on the east coast from de to nc (water 45-50) and been warm enough to stay out 4-5 hours. Can't say on durability yet but it's not showing any signs of wear and tear. great suit!
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hallucinogenic_toreador
Miki Dora status
Reged: 03/31/06
Posts: 4477
Loc: oxnard shores
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killer review, and killer rounpin, too!
only bummer is that i thought i'd found my standard in the quiksilver cell 6 suit...i have a 3/2 and a 4/3 and love them both, but now you go and throw this wrinkle at me...
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"They proved me right, they proved me wrong, but they could never last this long!"
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Surfjunkie
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 05/06/05
Posts: 2058
Loc: Earth People
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Quote:
killer review, and killer rounpin, too!
only bummer is that i thought i'd found my standard in the quiksilver cell 6 suit...i have a 3/2 and a 4/3 and love them both, but now you go and throw this wrinkle at me...
Matuse is so much better than the Quik suits it's not even comparable and I liked the Quik suits before trying getting a Matuse. To be honest, Matuse is in a different category than other suits and I wouldn't care if it only lasted one season if I can be this warm & comfortable.
Patagonia's have the potential to be as good as the Matuse if they could resolve the rash issues and lighten them up a bit.
ShShSh and I saw the new Matuse's at ASR incl a really light 2mm Full that I'll but as soon as it comes out.
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surferguy800
Nep status
Reged: 10/20/05
Posts: 891
Loc: SantaBarbara
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DUDE
you forgot to mention that every time you go to the beach people trip out on the fact that you have a Matuse...youll be a celebrity!
my f-bomb fell apart in one season...the warranty replaced it and im happy but id rather just have a killer suit, period...i need to save my pennies 
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PointConceptSurfboards
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SlicedFeet
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 12/16/04
Posts: 2120
Loc: Swarm Diego
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I tripped out when I saw their logo on the Monument sign for the San Diego Sports Arena. Not sure if it's still there, but good placement for HomeDepot runs. They musta hav stocked out the arena workers with some comps. And fuckk nooo, It will never be the Ipay1 center to me. Too many good times there. Lester knows what time it is.
Oneill is the only suit that fits (minuses old scholl Victry), but hell after that review I'm gonna give it go.
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"God, please protect me from your followers"
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dkennedys11
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/17/06
Posts: 2857
Loc: beneath the blue suburban sky
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Im interested in getting one, but what would be ideal for San Diego? I wear a regular 3/2 right now. Would the 2mm be good? I saw like a 4/3/2 and figured thatd be way too warm.
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Bomb Hills not Countries.
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c_olden
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 09/04/07
Posts: 1161
Loc: Pole of Inaccessibility
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Quote:
DUDE
you forgot to mention that every time you go to the beach people trip out on the fact that you have a Matuse...youll
I don't wanna be a celebrity, I just wanna stay warm!!
co
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kool-aid
Nep status
Reged: 08/28/03
Posts: 900
Loc: sf/sc
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i like my matuse a lot but i expected a little more from the claims. Fit and materials are above most/all. The suit is way warmer than my oneil, but not that much warmer than my hotline. A few degrees i would say
One thing i find them to do is retain heat better when there is a lull. Durability is slights less i would say.
Seems and neck seal are way above standard. It seems however, i've had mine for about 6 months and i'm almost ready to add another to the rotation. can't tell if thats cause i like it or it was that much better new.
compared to the rest except for hotline imo its a no brainer. I would like to try nine plus or whatever.
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Taint
Nep status
Reged: 07/15/05
Posts: 753
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Great review. Specially at a time where I am getting close to tossing my current 4/3. Might have to check this suit out. 
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ShShSh
Miki Dora status
Reged: 04/27/06
Posts: 4944
Loc: Santa Barbarea
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Quote:
I concur with Sh's review. I'm 38 and fluctuate between 170-175lbs. Had the size LS 4/3/2 Hoplite Matuse (normally wear a Medium) for about 4 months (bought it through Wetsand). Best suit I've ever had for sure: light, warm, soft, flexible and extremely comfortable. The only thing I don't like about the suit is that there's a thin "tank top" like liner that seems to roll up everytime I finish putting on the suit. Therefore, I have to unzip and flatten out that curled up portion of the liner. Also, if it's a long session (+2.5hrs)after consecutive days of surfing, I do get a very mild soreness, maybe even a mild rash, but then again, it may be from the sun tan/burn-line around the neck.
The suit dries up rediculously fast. I'll be putting on a dry suit the next day and my O'neil booties are still wet.
I am quite sure that if you tried one of these Matuse, you'll never want to wear any other brand. I'll be looking to buy spring suit from them when the time comes.
Interesting... I have the opposite take on the internal liner. The first generation had the same old boring back bib set-up as used by many other companies. It works, but it's imperfect & creates issues of its own (like creating a "bunch point" in the middle of your back). Sure it blocks some minor leaking in the back, but it does nothing for the neck.
Generation two, THIS SUIT, has the new tank-top liner. I find it amazing! When putting on your suit, you need to just make sure it's flat & it won't create any issues at all. I haven't had a "roll up" issue like you've stated. In fact, mine's been a dream.
At first I thought this thin liner might be a weak link, but it is nothing of the sort. It holds the suit well, protects the back perfectly, and creates a smooth seal for the neck. It does not pull up like neck "protectors" of other suits which pull over the neck seal & create a water flush point. It's clean, smooth & works really really well.
Frankly, the first time I was putting on the suit the liner sort of confused me. (Okay, I'm a bit slow.) But after looking at it, I figured this out and realized just how ingenious this new design is. A true change, totally original, and it works really well for me. Apparently, Matuse has some pretty smart designers who decided to think outside the box.
As I said, I'm amazed by these suits. The only issue I presently have is related to the key loop. It's not a legit "issue," but rather a change I'd suggest for future iterations. Beyond that, it's a great suit!
-ShShSh
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Back to lurking...
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Surfjunkie
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 05/06/05
Posts: 2058
Loc: Earth People
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get a lock box for the key and dont worry about it being in your suit
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BrownFish
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/04/05
Posts: 2429
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Quote:
At first I thought this thin liner might be a weak link, but it is nothing of the sort. It holds the suit well, protects the back perfectly, and creates a smooth seal for the neck. It does not pull up like neck "protectors" of other suits which pull over the neck seal & create a water flush point. It's clean, smooth & works really really well.
Frankly, the first time I was putting on the suit the liner sort of confused me. (Okay, I'm a bit slow.) But after looking at it, I figured this out and realized just how ingenious this new design is. A true change, totally original, and it works really well for me. Apparently, Matuse has some pretty smart designers who decided to think outside the box.
I couldn't agree with this statement more. When I first put mine on, I was thinking WTF. But, this design is ingenious. It never pulls on my neck like the rest do. In other suits, I've always had to unbutton and throw away the neck sealer, or cut it out. It always either pulled on my neck, or made it too tight. No longer. As flimsy as that piece looks, it's plenty strong. Only thing is I feel like I look like a full Vato (think 20W)  with a wife beater on, when I've got the sleeves off and pulled down, but the vest still up. It's not pretty on me. Maybe it is on some 20 years old cut kid with a tan, or on 20W, but not on a 39 y/o true whiteboy who could stand to lose a few.
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http://hand-plane.blogspot.com/
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Anonymous
Unregistered
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any sales going on on these suits?
i tried one on the other day. seems like it might be cool but 449$ 
I f any of you folks hear or see a sale on them please PM me.
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BrownFish
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 03/04/05
Posts: 2429
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We'll see when the season ends. The only time I've ever seen a sale on em, is when Solana Beach Mitches had the fire sale. The first generation of suits sold out so fast that there was never time for a sale. The second generation is looking pretty similar. I doubt you'll see much of a sale in the future, but we'll see. The reason is it costs alot to use this type of rubber, and the wholesale cost is high. The shops aren't making the mark-up that they usually do with most other brands. This is to keep the price at a reasonable amount. If they used the same mark-up schedule as other suits, I doubt anyone would be buying them. I would have been the last person to say this last year, but I think $449 is a far price for these suits. Less than Patagonia, less problems than Patagonia, and better function.
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http://hand-plane.blogspot.com/
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nickincosta
Grom
Reged: 08/07/06
Posts: 21
Loc: So. OC
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25% off at Infinity.
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c_olden
Gerry Lopez status
Reged: 09/04/07
Posts: 1161
Loc: Pole of Inaccessibility
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hey,
I wore my Matuse 4/3/2 Hoplite for the first time yesterday
south of SF. Here's the details;
me:
5'11.5"x 185lbs.
age:43
westsuit size:L
Water temp:somewhere around 50-51.
Yesterday's condtions were atrocious.
the waves were mush at best, and the wind was howling.
a perfect day to try out a new suit.
I'm a big p*ssy when it comes to cold water, so I've been
wearing an O'Neill Psycho 2 6/5/4. It has kept me nice
an toasty w/o overheating in the NorCal water. However, the
thickness has been a problem for my right shoulder after a 2.5-3 hour session.(I blew out my rotator cuff about 10
years ago, and after a long session it's toast.)
With all the hype about the Matuse, I figured I'd give it
a try, at worst, it'd make a good summer suit.
Impressions:
The only thing difficult about putting the Matuse on is
the interior gasket. It's like a tank top sewn into the
suit that you have to step through. The material is simi-
lar to the gasket on the Psycho 2. However, once you're
through the tank, it's on with no problem. The one thing
I noticed the sleeves are a bit long. Not enough to be a
problem, but long-ish.
Out in the water, paddling was much easier(no surprise).
With the wind blowing pretty hard, I was interested in
seeing how well the Matuse did at insulating against it.
There were a lot of crossed arms in the line up when the
gusts came up. The Matuse kept me nice an toasty during
these. I couldn't feel the evaportaion off the wetsuit.
Overall, the Matuse kept me nearly as warm as my O'Neill
after a 2.5 hour session. With the freedom of movement
from a 4/3/2, I'll willingly trade a little(and I mean a
little)warmth for my shoulder not being shot after a
session. During the rolls & dives, I didn't have any flushing through the neck or wrist areas.
The only very minor drawback to the Matuse was that the
ankles aren't as tight as the O'Neill. I noticed my booties
(which normally keep my feet very toasty)getting much more
water circulation than normal. But there wasn't any flushing
past the lower part of my calves. The lack of a hood on the
Matuse keeps the it from being a total grand slam. However,
an O'Neill 3mm Cold Water hoodie worked well with the suit.
By the time I'd walked back to my vehicle, the Matuse was
dry on the outside and starting to get hot out in the sun.
As advertised, it absorbs very little water. I could've
gone for lunch and come back to a dry suit. Nice.
While I sort of feel like a turncoat for using the Matuse
(since it is NorCal/O'Neill country), the flexibility and
warmth of the Matuse makes it a winner.
co
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SouthCoastSurfer
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 02/23/07
Posts: 1760
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I've been seriously considering picking one of these suits up. Especially after realizing how much my 4/3/2 West suit weighs when wet
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aqua_fortis
Legend (inyourownmind)
Reged: 01/27/06
Posts: 219
Loc: Cold and Sharky
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C - Good to have your Nor Cal review.
It's been so fricken' cold up here lately. A day not long ago I heard the buoy was reading 46 degrees.
I've got a Matuse 1 mil vest which has been saving my ass some DP morning sessions. Wearing it under my 5/4/3/ hooded Rip Curl F-Bomb.
Love the lightness of the geoprene, and can see how a full suit would be much lighter, flexible and quick drying than traditional neoprene. And now with all the great feedback on this post, I'm seriously thinking it will be my next suit.
Since I sometimes like to wear a hooded rashy under my non-hooded suits, does anyone think having that layer of polypro between skin and the geoprene would defeat some of its insulating/sealing qualities?
Got to love Matuse's cheeky warranty statement:
"We offer a 1 year warranty from the date of purchase on Geoprene manufacturing defects. The seams of this quality product are guaranteed for the life of the Geoprene. However, this point considered, the warranty does not apply in cases where Geoprene quality is irreversibly damaged due to sun exposure, improper care, shark attack, spontaneous combustion, alien abduction, general negligence or natural aging over the course of the product’s lifetime. Accordingly, if the Geoprene is in such a state that it cannot be used for repair, the warranty will be voided. This warranty is ultimately limited to repair or replacement at the discretion of Matuse and does not include consequential damages, incidental damages or damages to person or property."
Also, anyone try Body Glove's Eco suit?
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dkennedys11
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 07/17/06
Posts: 2857
Loc: beneath the blue suburban sky
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Anyone happen to know how much the 2mm short arm is?
--------------------
Bomb Hills not Countries.
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hmmm
Kelly Slater status
Reged: 01/13/02
Posts: 8378
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been an xcel fan for a looong time now, but the matuse hands down the best wetsuit i ever worn.
--------------------
Cool waves and shaka-to-ya-frada-cause-youre-nothing-but-a-bradda
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Homie
Michael Peterson status
Reged: 09/02/05
Posts: 3138
Loc: Creek
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Those suits look ill... Hmmm 
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