For every surfer, from those searching unchartered shores to newcomers finding their rhythm, the choice of wetsuit is a pivotal one. If you live in a climate where the water temperature drops below 20 Degrees Celcius / 68 Degrees Fahrenheit in winter, you’ll at some point be in the market for some new rubber.
In 2023, wetsuit technology has taken impressive strides forward. This year, the spotlight is on superior materials, cutting-edge design, and a genuine commitment to sustainability. With options ranging from limestone-based neoprene to ethically sourced rubber and advanced thermal linings, there’s something tailored for every surfer’s needs.
Here, we explore the best 6 women’s wetsuits for 2023, showcasing those that excel in performance, comfort, and environmental responsibility.
Table of Contents
Xcel Infinity
Designed with the modern woman surfer in mind, Xcel’s Infinity wetsuit strikes the perfect balance between warmth and flexibility. Known for its “grandma hug” comfort, this wetsuit is versatile enough for fluctuating water temperatures. With rapid-drying technology and an eco-conscious construction featuring limestone neoprene, it not only keeps you warm and flexible but also respects Mother Earth.
Key Highlights:
- Material: Limestone Neoprene
- Eco-Friendly: Yes
- Available In: 3/2mm, 4/3mm
- Zipper: Front Zip
- Special Features: Radiant Rebound core, ThermoLite IR, Ultra Stretch Lower Body
Why It’s a Top Pick:
- Balance of Warmth and Stretch: Offers the perfect “grandma hug” with a balance of warmth and stretch, making it ideal for varied water temperatures.
- Quick Dry: The advanced material dries faster than most wetsuits, reducing post-surf wait times.
- Sustainability: Its limestone neoprene, water-based glue, and recycled polyester contribute to its eco-friendliness.
Patagonia R-Series Regulator®
Taking ethical manufacturing to new heights (or depths), the Patagonia R-Series wetsuit seamlessly blends sustainability with performance. Certified by the Rainforest Alliance, the natural rubber construction is a testament to environmental stewardship. Offering both stretch and warmth with its thermal microgrid lining, this Fair Trade Certified wetsuit sets a new standard for ethical, high-performance surf gear.
Key Highlights:
- Material: 85% Yulex natural rubber/15% synthetic rubber
- Eco-Friendly: Yes
- Available In: R1 (3/2.5mm), R2 (3.5/3mm), R3 (4.5/3.5mm), R4 (5.5/4mm), R5 (6.5/5mm)
- Zipper: Front Zip
- Special Features: Thermal Lining, Supratex Kneepads
Why It’s a Top Pick:
- Natural Material: Made from sustainably sourced natural rubber, certified by the Rainforest Alliance.
- Stretch and Warmth: Excellent thermal microgrid lining along with high-stretch recycled polyester.
- Fair Trade Certified: Ethically made, benefiting the people who construct the wetsuits.
O’Neill Hyperfreak
When agility meets comfort, you get O’Neill’s Hyperfreak. A wetsuit designed for women who take their surfing seriously, it employs TechnoButter 3 material to offer unparalleled lightness and flexibility. Further complemented by the F.U.Z.E closure system, this wetsuit promises a snug yet comfortable fit that ensures maximum dryness and mobility.
Key Highlights:
- Material: TechnoButter 3 and TB3X neoprene
- Eco-Friendly: No
- Available In: 4.5/3.5mm, 3.5/2.5mm
- Zipper: Chest Zip (F.U.Z.E Closure)
- Special Features: Minimal seam design, ENVY foam rubber core
Why It’s a Top Pick:
- Super Light and Flexible: Utilizes O’Neill’s exclusive TechnoButter 3 material for maximum flexibility and minimum weight.
- Superior Seal: The F.U.Z.E closure ensures you stay dry and comfortable.
- Performance Oriented: Designed with serious surfers in mind, focusing on maximum mobility and dryness.
Orca Tango
Crafted for the surfer who refuses to compromise on flexibility, the Orca Tango is in a league of its own. Employing Yamamoto’s finest neoprene materials and Thermal-X lining, this wetsuit offers supreme warmth without restricting movement. Add in its durable DuraSkin outer fabric, and you have a wetsuit that’s built to last while making no sacrifices on comfort.
Key Highlights:
- Material: 100% Yamamoto neoprene
- Eco-Friendly: No
- Available In: 3/2mm, 4/3mm
- Zipper: Front Zip
- Special Features: Thermal X inner lining, DuraSkin outer fabric
Why It’s a Top Pick:
- Maximum Elasticity: Utilizes the best Yamamoto materials for superior stretch and movement.
- Thermal Comfort: The 4 mm-thick Yamamoto neoprene and Thermal-X lining provide maximum warmth.
- Durability: The DuraSkin outer fabric and inner taping make this suit highly durable.
Billabong Furnace
When performance and durability are non-negotiable, look no further than Billabong’s Furnace. Engineered with AIRLITE 4D exterior and Graphene interior lining, this wetsuit offers optimal thermal retention. It doesn’t just stop at keeping you warm; its durability is reinforced with a power seam and machine-applied super-flex neo tape, making it a prime choice for those who demand the best from their gear.
Key Highlights:
- Material: Recycled nylon elastane, Smart Foam
- Eco-Friendly: Partially
- Available In: 3/2mm, 5/4mm hooded
- Zipper: Chest Zip
- Special Features: Graphene interior fabric, AIRLITE 4D exterior
Why It’s a Top Pick:
- Optimized for Performance: Built for action with AIRLITE 4D exterior and a technical Graphene interior.
- Thermal Retention: High thermal retention due to premium lightweight Smart Foam.
- Durability: Features power seam and machine-applied super-flex neo tape to enhance durability.
Roxy Swell Series
Swell waves deserve swell wetsuits, and the Roxy Swell Series is making a splash in the 2023 line-up of women’s wetsuits. Designed with the modern female surfer in mind, this suit combines fashion-forward aesthetics with groundbreaking technology.
Key Highlights:
- Material: Recycled polyester elastane blend fabric
- Available In: 3/2mm, 4/3mm, 5/4mm, 5/4mm hooded
- Zipper: Back Zip
- Special Features: StretchFlight Eco construction and a WarmFlight® thermal lining, Supratex knee pads.
Why It’s a Top Pick:
- Versatility: Ideal for both warm and cold water conditions, the Swell Series offers multiple thickness options for year-round surfing.
- Quick-Dry Technology: Nobody likes feeling soggy after a session. Roxy’s Quick-Dry feature ensures you’re comfortable both in and out of the water.
- Stretch and Flexibility: A blend of premium neoprene and strategically placed panels allows for optimal movement and flexibility, essential for shredding those waves.
- Eco-Friendly Material: Made from recycled plastic bottles and environmentally friendly neoprene
Whether you prioritize warmth, stretch, eco-friendliness, or durability, there’s likely a perfect wetsuit for you among these top picks for 2023.