Are Xcel wetsuits any good?
The Xcel Comp+ is here to rival the competition and is tailored for the surfer looking for the perfect balance of flexibility, comfort, and warmth. Some seemingly subtle differences make this wetsuit a standout for me, especially for the price. So, in a nutshell, the Comp suit has everything you need to be warm and comfortable in the water, but the Comp+ is stretchier, has more taping, more thermal lining, and seals in the wrists and ankles.
Do Xcel wetsuits stretch?
The Xcel Comp X wetsuit is designed specifically for surfers seeking a combination of high performance and warmth in cold conditions. Crafted with 100% ultra-stretch Japanese limestone neoprene, it offers exceptional flexibility and comfort. Wet suits don’t keep you dry, but they can keep you warm. Wet suits are made of waterproof, closed-cell, foam-rubber (neoprene) which insulates even when wet. The two main things that determine how warm you will be are the thickness of the neoprene and the snugness of the wet suit.Just like with most things in life, wetsuits naturally lose warmth over time due to factors like neoprene degradation, frequent use, exposure to UV rays, and improper care.Cons of Using Wetsuits While wetsuits offer great insulation, they are bulkier and restrict mobility more compared to spring suits. The thicker neoprene material limits flexibility, making paddling and maneuvering slightly more challenging.
How much should I pay for a good wetsuit?
The average wetsuit costs $100–$300 for recreational users, while entry-level models start around $60 and premium suits can reach $500–$800 or more. Kids’ wetsuits are usually $50–$150, while triathlon and cold-water suits push to the high end. An affordable 4/3 suit typically falls within the $200-300 price range. Generally, a 4/3 wetsuit is recommended for water temperatures ranging from 52-60 degrees F (or 11. C).If you’re primarily in warmer waters, a 3mm suit should be sufficient, if you’re primarily in waters where temperatures hover around the mid-teens, a 4mm suit should be more than enough. But if you plan to tackle cold waters or winter waves, a 5mm wetsuit will keep you toasty and ready for anything.The numbers 5/3, 4/3 and 3/2, etc, refer to the thickness of the neoprene in millimetres and therefore describe how warm the wetsuit is. A 5/3 wetsuit will be 5 mm thick on the trunk and 3 mm thick on the arms and legs. The same logic applies to 4/3 and 3/2 wetsuits that use thinner rubber and therefore aren’t as warm.Here are some general guidelines for selecting a wetsuit based on water temperature: Water temperatures below 57°F (14°C): A full wetsuit with a thickness of at least 4/3mm (millimetres) is recommended. Water temperatures between 57-64°F (14-18°C): A full suit with a thickness of at least 3/2mm is recommended.Thin summer wetsuits range between 1mm and 3mm. Spring or autumn wetsuits are normally made with 4mm and 3mm panels. You’ll find winter wetsuits in 5/4mm or 6/5mm.