The water temperature in the PNW tend to group what wetsuit works for Women into 2 price range categories: Entry Level 5/4mm, and Higher End 4.5/3.5mm and 5/4mm. Without as many women surfers in the water, it’s challenging for companies to produce the same amount of options as the men. This trend is quickly changing however, and a couple manufactures have already begun to expand their product line. For example, Xcel just introduced for the first time a hooded 4.5/3.5 wetsuit, and its amazing! We hope this is just the start of growing the options for women that work in our cold water.
Entry Level 5/4mm - $179 to $299
Both hooded and non-hooded versions are available. These suits have the thickness of neoprene you need, but in an effort to keep the cost down, lack the technology which keeps you dryer, and thus warmer for longer periods of time. If you are a beginner or someone who doesn’t plan on staying in the water for more than an hour or so, this is a great option. The neoprene used in these suits isn’t as flexible or as light as the higher end suits, but again, if you aren’t planning on spending multiple hours in the water this isn’t an issue.
Bottom line: If you are on a budget or not looking to surf longer than everyone else in the line-up, these are your suits!
- Roxy Syncro 5/4/3 Hooded and Non-Hooded
- Billabong Furnace Synergy 5/4 Hooded
- Xcel Axis 5/4 hooded and Non-Hooded
- Sisterevolution 7 Seas 5/4 Hooded
High-End 4.5/3.5 and 5/4mm - $349 to $499
Hooded 4.5/3.5 and 5/4mm options. Why should you buy one of these high-end options rather than saving some money? Believe it or not, they are that much better and worth every penny! If you are someone who surfs regularly, spends multiple hours in the water, and is looking for the most flexible and lightest suit to maximize your performance, these are your wetsuits. Or, if you are not on a budget and you simply want the best, you will be blown away by the quality and benefits you get by spending a little more money. You will be getting the lightest and most flexible neoprene, warmest and least absorbent liner, and every other feature available to keep you dry and warm! Because of all these features, going to a thinner 4.5/3.5mm is possible even on our coldest days.
Bottom line: If you want to perform at your highest level or be as warm as you can without sacrificing flexibility, spend the extra dollars and grab one of these suits! You won’t be disappointed with the little less money in your bank account.
