Swimming Suit Neoprene: Top Options for Cold-Water Comfort.
Swimming Suit Neoprene: Top Options for Cold-Water Comfort
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Swimming is a popular activity for fitness and leisure. Many people enjoy swimming in pools, lakes, and the ocean. Swimwear is an essential part of the experience, providing comfort and protection in the water.
Neoprene swimming suits are a specialised type of swimwear. They’re made from a synthetic rubber material that’s known for its insulating properties. These suits keep swimmers warm in cold water and provide extra buoyancy. They’re often used by open water swimmers, triathletes, and people who swim in cooler conditions.
On Crete, the sea water is usually too cool for us ‘softies’ before June and from October onwards, so buying a swimming suit for this time of year makes swimming much more pleasant.
When buying a neoprene swimming suit, it’s important to consider the thickness of the material, the fit, and the intended use. Thicker neoprene provides more warmth but can restrict movement. A proper fit is crucial for comfort and performance. The suit’s design should match the specific swimming activity you plan to do.
We spent many hours researching and testing various neoprene swimming suits to find the best options for different needs and budgets.
Best Swimming Suit Neoprene
We’ve rounded up the top swimming suit neoprene options on the market. Our list features suits that offer excellent insulation, flexibility, and durability for various water activities. These neoprene suits provide comfort and protection in different water temperatures.
Two Bare Feet Arabella Wetsuit
We reckon this wetsuit is a top choice for those wanting comfort and warmth during water activities.
Pros
- Soft and flexible material
- Easy to put on and take off
- Flattering fit
Cons
- Sizing can be tricky
- Not ideal for proper swimming
- Limited colour options
The Two Bare Feet Arabella wetsuit is a gem for water lovers. We found the 2mm neoprene to be super stretchy, making it a breeze to slip on and off. The micro-fleece lining adds extra cosiness, perfect for chilly dips.
We love how this suit looks. It’s got a great cut that flatters different body shapes. The burgundy colour is lovely, but we wish there were more options. The zip and stitching are top-notch, showing real attention to detail.
For open water swimming, this suit is brilliant. It keeps you warm without feeling bulky. We used it for paddling and kayaking too. It’s not meant for serious swimming though, as it’s a bit too buoyant. For casual dips and water sports, it’s spot on. Just be careful with sizing – it might take a bit of trial and error to get the right fit.
Maeau Neoprene Wetsuit
We reckon this versatile wetsuit is a solid choice for water sports enthusiasts seeking warmth and comfort.
Pros
- Soft, stretchy neoprene material
- Front zip for easy on/off
- UV protection (UPF 50+)
Cons
- Limited colour options
- May run small for some body types
- Hand wash only
The Maeau Women’s Neoprene Wetsuit impressed us with its thoughtful design. The 2mm neoprene thickness struck a nice balance, keeping us cosy without feeling bulky. We appreciated the front zip, which made getting in and out a breeze compared to back-zip styles we’ve tried before.
During our swim, the suit’s snug fit prevented excess water from sloshing about inside. The long sleeves offered extra warmth and sun protection, which we found brilliant for extended sessions in the water. The semi-wrapped hip design added a flattering touch without sacrificing functionality.
We put this suit through its paces across various activities. It performed well for surfing, paddling, and even a bit of snorkelling. The UPF 50+ rating gave us peace of mind on sunny days. While we liked the blue colour, we do wish there were more options to choose from. Some of us found the sizing a tad small, so it might be worth sizing up if you’re between sizes.
ZCCO Neoprene Wetsuit Top
This versatile wetsuit top offers good value for water activities, but sizing can be tricky.
Pros
- Warm 3mm neoprene material
- Front zip for easy on/off
- Suitable for multiple water sports
Cons
- Sizing runs small
- Initial rubbery smell
- Tight fit may be uncomfortable for some
We recently tried out the ZCCO Neoprene Wetsuit Top for various water activities. The 3mm thick neoprene kept us warm during chilly swims and snorkelling sessions. Its front zip made it easy to put on and take off, which we appreciated when changing quickly at the beach.
The top worked well for swimming, surfing, and even light diving. We liked how it provided sun protection and helped prevent scrapes during water sports. The tight fit created a nice seal against the water, though some of us found it a bit constricting at first.
One thing to note is the sizing. We had to order a size or two up from our usual to get a comfortable fit. The top also had a strong rubbery smell when new, but this faded after a few washes. For the price, we think it’s a solid choice for casual water enthusiasts looking for extra warmth and protection.
YDQUANI Neoprene Wetsuit Top
We reckon this wetsuit top is a solid choice for water sports enthusiasts seeking warmth and flexibility.
Pros
- Excellent thermal insulation
- Easy to put on and take off
- Versatile for various water activities
Cons
- Sizing may run large
- Limited colour options
- Might be too warm for tropical waters
We also tried out the YDQUANI 2mm Neoprene Wetsuit Top, and it’s a cracking piece of kit for open water swimming and diving. The 2mm neoprene does a bang-up job of keeping you toasty in chilly waters. We noticed the difference straight away when we took a dip in the local lake.
The YKK front zipper is a godsend. It’s dead easy to slip on and off, even when you’re a bit damp. No more awkward wrestling matches with your wetsuit! The stretchy collar is comfy too, so you won’t feel like you’re being strangled while you swim.
We put it through its paces during a snorkelling session, and it held up brilliantly. The flat-lock stitched seams meant no chafing or irritation, even after a few hours in the water. It’s not just for swimming, though – we reckon it’d be spot on for surfing, kayaking, or any other water sport you fancy.
PAWHIT Men’s 3mm Neoprene Wetsuit
We think this wetsuit offers good value for money and performs well for various water activities.
Pros
- Warm and flexible 3mm neoprene material
- Easy-to-use zipper with long leash
- Suitable for multiple water sports
Cons
- Sizing can be tricky
- Might have a rubber smell at first
- Zipper quality could be better
We’ve tried out this PAWHIT wetsuit and found it to be a solid choice for water enthusiasts. The 3mm neoprene keeps you warm in temperatures between 20-25°C, which is great for most UK coastal waters during summer.
The suit fits snugly once you get the size right. We suggest checking the size chart carefully and maybe going up a size if you’re unsure. When we first put it on, we noticed a slight rubber smell, but this faded after a few uses and washes.
We liked the long zipper leash, which made it easy to zip up without help. The suit moved well with us while swimming and surfing. It dried quickly too. For the price, we think it’s a good buy for casual water sports fans.
EUPTE 2mm Wetsuit Jacket
We think this versatile wetsuit jacket is a solid choice for water sports enthusiasts looking for affordable protection and comfort.
Pros
- Stretchy neoprene fits various body shapes
- Front zipper for easy on/off
- Suitable for multiple water activities
Cons
- Sizing can be tricky
- May be too thin for very cold water
- Limited colour options
Two Bare Feet Summer Wetsuit
We reckon this wetsuit is a solid pick for those after a budget-friendly option for summer watersports.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Bright colour options
- Flatlock seams for comfort
Cons
- Sizing runs small
- Cuffs could be tighter
- Limited size range for taller people
We’ve given this Two Bare Feet wetsuit a proper test, and it’s a decent bit of kit for the price. The 2.5mm neoprene is spot on for warmer waters, keeping us comfy without overheating. We liked the bright colour choices – they’re great for standing out in the waves.
The flatlock seams are a nice touch. They kept chafing at bay, even after a few hours in the surf. The SCR neoprene felt flexible enough for easy paddling and swimming. It’s not top-end stuff, but it does the job nicely for casual use.
We did find the sizing a bit off. It’s best to go up a size or two, especially if you’re after a looser fit. The cuffs could do with being a tad tighter – we noticed a bit of water sloshing in the sleeves. Taller folks might struggle to find a good fit, as the length seems geared towards average heights. All in all, it’s a decent wetsuit for beginners or those on a budget, but don’t expect pro-level performance.
Mountain Warehouse Shorty Wetsuit
We think this wetsuit is a solid choice for summer water activities, offering good value and comfort for casual swimmers.
Pros
- Flatlock seams prevent chafing
- Neoprene material retains heat well
- Includes a handy key pocket
Cons
- Arm and leg fit may be loose for some
- Not suitable for very cold water
- Limited colour options
We recently tried out the Mountain Warehouse Shorty Wetsuit, and we were quite pleased with its performance. The 2.5mm neoprene thickness struck a nice balance, keeping us warm without feeling bulky.
The flatlock seams lived up to their promise. We didn’t experience any chafing, even after extended wear. This made our swim sessions much more enjoyable. The contoured fit was generally good, though we noticed the arms and legs were a bit roomy on some body types.
We appreciated the key pocket – it’s a small touch, but it gave us peace of mind while we were in the water. The extended puller on the zip made getting in and out of the suit easier than we expected.
While it’s great for warmer waters, we wouldn’t rely on this suit for long swims in cold oceans. It’s more suited to summer use or short dips in cooler temperatures. We found it dried quickly, which was handy when we needed to pack up and go.
The sizing seems true to standard clothing sizes, which made ordering online less of a gamble. We’d recommend this wetsuit for casual swimmers and those new to water sports. It offers good value for money, especially if you’re not ready to invest in a high-end suit.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a neoprene swimming suit, there are several key factors to consider. We’ll walk you through the most important aspects to help you make the best choice.
Fit
A proper fit is crucial for comfort and performance. The suit should be snug but not restrictive. Look for models with adjustable features like zips or Velcro straps.
Thickness
Neoprene thickness affects warmth and flexibility. Here’s a quick guide:
Thickness |
Best for |
|---|---|
1-2mm |
Warm water |
3-4mm |
Moderate temperatures |
5-6mm |
Cold water |
Seams
Check the seam construction. Flatlock seams are comfortable but less watertight. Glued and blind-stitched seams offer better insulation.
Durability
Look for reinforced areas in high-wear spots like knees and shoulders. Quality neoprene with a nylon lining tends to last longer.
Flexibility
Stretchy panels in key areas like underarms and lower back can improve range of motion. Some suits use different thicknesses in various zones for optimal flexibility.
Purpose
Consider your main use for the suit. Racing suits are streamlined, while recreational models might prioritise comfort and warmth.
Care Instructions
Check the care label. Some neoprene suits require special cleaning methods to maintain their properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Neoprene swimsuits offer unique benefits for various swimming needs. We’ll explore key aspects like advantages, designs, options for different users, and comfort considerations.
What are the advantages of wearing a neoprene swimsuit for swimming?
Neoprene swimsuits provide excellent insulation in cold water. They offer buoyancy, which can help with swimming technique and endurance.
These suits also protect against sunburn and jellyfish stings. Neoprene is durable and resists chlorine damage better than many other fabrics.
How do neoprene swimsuits vary between one-piece and two-piece designs?
One-piece neoprene swimsuits offer full coverage and streamlined performance. They’re ideal for serious swimmers and triathletes.
Two-piece designs give more flexibility and ease of use. They’re great for casual swimming and water sports. Some two-piece suits have mix-and-match options for personalised fit.
Which neoprene swimsuits are recommended for children?
For children, we recommend suits with extra stretch for growth and comfort. Look for bright colours or patterns for visibility.
Shorty wetsuits are popular for kids. They cover the torso, upper arms, and thighs. Full-length suits are better for colder water.
Can you suggest some other top neoprene swimsuits for men?
Top choices for men include the Orca Openwater Core Hi-Vis Wetsuit for open water swimming. The Zone3 Agile Wetsuit is great for triathlons.
For casual use, the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 2mm Short Sleeve Spring Suit is comfortable and versatile.
What should be worn underneath a neoprene swimsuit for optimal comfort?
For most neoprene swimsuits, nothing needs to be worn underneath. The suit is designed to be worn directly on the skin.
In some cases, a thin rash guard or swim shorts can add comfort. This is personal preference and depends on the activity.
Are neoprene bikinis suitable for competitive swimming, and how do they compare with traditional materials?
Neoprene bikinis aren’t typically used in competitive pool swimming. They’re better suited for open water events or casual swimming.
Compared to traditional materials, neoprene offers more buoyancy and warmth. It’s less hydrodynamic than racing suits made from materials like Lycra or polyester.
