TWENTY FOURTEEN SUMMER WETSUIT GUIDE
SUMMER WETSUIT GUIDE
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2014 SUMMER WETSUIT GUIDE
t’s that time of year again, the first shoots of spring have sprung from hedgerows and there’s a strange orange globe in the sky. Suddenly when you’re out in the water that 6mm suit is just starting to overheat a bit. Even your step down 5/3 is making sessions a little sweaty, so it’s time to think about summer. We know that wetsuit manufacturers have made 6mm the 4mm or whatever, but there is nothing quite as nice as a summer wetsuit for flexibility and comfort. Some would argue that a summer wetsuit is not as vital as a winter one, after all it’s pretty warm all summer right, so it’s just not as important as a winter one, well that’s wrong. If you think of how much more time you spend in a summer wetsuit, then you’ll realise what an important decision buying one actually is. OK, out and out warmth may not be as important, but when it’s cooking in the middle of May, and the water still has a chill to it you’ll want to be pulling five hour sessions, so it matters. Comfort is also at the top of the list, these things are going to be on your back for a long time this summer. So to help you decide check out some of these suits, from some of the finest makers of rubber garments going.
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Reubyn Ask loose and limber in a summer suit Photo: Jason Feast
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contact: web: gul.com fb: facebook.com/gul tweet: @gulwatersports email: info@gul.com tel: +44 (0) 1208 262400
Viper 3/2 : Summer 2014 presents the latest generation of ultimate high performance cold-water wetsuits. With less panels and more stretch than ever before! Features: Quadrate PK Micro Zip closure system / External liquidseam for 100% water seal, flexibility and warmth / 100% X-flex: super-stretch main body panels / Bolt Dry: Quick dry core wicks water away from the skin, creating ultimate insulation and warmth / Mesh back to prevent wind chill / Powertex knees / Aqua Ring wrist seals reduce water flush. RRP: £225.00
Response CZ Mens 3/2: The Gul Response CZ sets the performance benchmark for entry-level suits. Featuring the ABS aqua barrier diagonal front zip, 40% X-flex Super Stretch neoprene plus glued and blind-stitched seams. Features: 40% X-Flex Super Stretch upper body panels for flexibility and freedom / Thermospan core body panel; wicking insulated lining / 60% D-Flex lower body panels for durability / Blind-stitched and G-flex critically taped seams / ABS aqua barrier PK Chest zip entry system / T2 lined neoprene reflects the heat back in / Powertex knees. RRP: £100.00
Response 3/2: Gul Response a wetsuit that needs no further introduction. If you’re looking for a versatile GBS wetsuit for performance, warmth and durability. Features: 40% X-Flex super stretch main body panels for flexibility and freedom / 60% D-Flex lower body panels for durability / Blind-stitched and G-flex critically taped / Pro Neck seam free neck seal / Mesh chest and back to prevent wind chill / T2 lined neoprene reflects the heat back in / Powertex knees / PK Blackout water lock zip. RRP: £90.00
Flashbomb Chest Zip: World’s fastest drying wetsuit. For the surfer who wants the best wetsuit possible. No compromises. Constructed with the most advanced neoprene and loaded with the latest ocean technology. RRP: 3/2 steamer £299.99
E Bomb Pro: The pro model just got better. Now with E4 super stretch neoprene the Zip Free entry and exit, and the extra freedom of no zip. The E-Bomb pro plus has the purity of minimalism with the stretchiest rubber we can find. We added more E4+ neoprene to create flex zones that allow every joint in your body maximum range of motion with minimal restriction. RRP: 3/2 steamer £239.99
For almost 50 Years Gul has been at the forefront of watersports technical development and remains the largest UK based performance apparel company. Since the beginning in 1967, the philosophy has been simple - to make the best product possible and support your sport at every level.
FOR ALMOST 50 YEARS GUL HAS BEEN AT THE FOREFRONT OF WATERSPORTS TECHNICAL DEVELOPMENT
contact: web: ripcurl.eu fb: facebook.com/ripcurl instagram: @ripcurl_europe email: rc_newquay@ripcurl-europe.com What started in 1969 as a vision, or Search, of two surfers has evolved into a way of life for surfers and board sport enthusiasts worldwide. Rip Curl remains a private company committed to the mission of being regarded as The Ultimate Surfing Company. We pride ourselves as designing and making the best wetsuits possible.
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Flashbomb Plus: The all new Flash Bomb Plus redefines the ultimate in wetsuits. The warmth, flexibility, comfort, and overall performance are unmatched by any suit on the market today. RRP: 3/2 steamer £379.99
contact: web: circle-one.co.uk email: sales@circle-one.co.uk tel: +44 (0) 1363 773005
Icon 3/2: Drawing upon the winning features of its winter stable-mate, the Icon 3/2 is a serious summer suit. Boasting Aqualock glide-skin adjustable collar for custom fit, Hydrophobic print on chest and back panels, C1 Flex 4 neoprene, Full polypro lined chest and barrier system. Features: Aqualock adjustable collar / C1-Flex 4 neoprene throughout (4-way stretch) / Wind-chill beating Hydrophobic print on chest and back panels / Ultraseal LQS on wrist and ankle / Full polypro-lined chest and barrier system / CoreTex ultra-durable knee zone RRP: £109.99
Elev8 Mini-Zip: The key USP, not seen on other mini-zips, is the Aqualock adjustable collar system for custom fit. Add to that C1-Flex 4 neoprene, Hydrophobic front and back panels, 100% external LQS and Ultraseal LQS on wrist and ankles. Features: Aqualock adjustable collar system / C1-Flex 4 neoprene throughout (4-way stretch) / Wind-chill beating Hydrophobic print on chest and back panels / 100% external LQS / Ultraseal LQS on wrist and ankle / Invisible ZIP system with back flap and full drainage / Engineered seam contours / CoreTex ultra-durable knee zone / HydroBloc’ Barrier & Drainage system RRP: £169.99
Faze 3/2: Overhauled for 2014 sees the Faze 3/2 with bang up-to-date graphics and a focus on features you’d expect on a pricier suit. Available also in Ladies sizes. Features: Strategic ‘C1 -flex4 neoprene placement on shoulder, arm and under-arm / Solid flatlock seam construction / Kevlar impregnated full-flex knee pads / Wind chill-beating Hydrophobic print on chest and back panel / Luxury lycra adjustable collar for comfort fit / Anatomical panel fit RRP: £74.99
Circle One has been designing and manufacturing wetsuits for over 30 years and are passionate about selecting the best premium materials available and employ progressive manufacturing techniques to achieve the quality for which Circle One suits are renowned. All our suits undergo rigorous ‘real world’ testing in British waters so you know when you buy a Circle One wetsuit you are buying a product that delivers top-class performance in all conditions.
YOU ARE BUYING A PRODUCT THAT DELIVERS TOP-CLASS PERFORMANCE
contact: web: aldersportswear.com fb: facebook.com/AlderSportswear tweet: @AlderSportswear email: info@aldersportswear.com tel: +44(0)1566 783444
Evo Fire: Surf like you mean it this summer with the 2014 Evo fire. Using Alders “X” Stretch throughout for comfort and fit. It has 40% “FDL” inside which traps air against the skin to help maintain core body temperature and best of all it drys in 15 minutes. The seams on the lower body are strengthend with with S-Seal while the duratec knees use specific foam and nylon for tough but flexible performance. Features: 3 x 2 Blindstitched seams / Chest zip / 100% “X” Stretch / 40% fast drying Aerocore inside / 95% S-Sealed seams / Double lined torso / Duratec knee pads RRP: £160
Reflex: The Reflex 3/2 combines “X” Stretch on the upper body for super flexible paddling and standard high quality neoprene for the lower half delivering excellent value. The inside chest is lined with Aerocore for warmth and critical seams are reinforced with neoprene tape inside. We have included high quality duratec knee pads and YKK zip for your summer pleasure. Features: 3 x 2 Blindtsitch seams / Chest zip / 45% “X” Stretch / Aerocore inside chest / Double lined torso / Duratec knee pads RRP: Mens £110, Junior £90
Stealth: Quality at a great price! - The Stealth uses first quality materials constructed with a high attention to detail. “X” Stretch ont he sleeves and under arms combined with single lined torso and duratec knee pads adds up to a top value bit of kit available in men, junior and lady styles. Features: 3x2 Blindstitched seams / Back Zip / “X” Stretch sleeves and under arms / Single lined torso / Duratec knee pads / Metal YKK zipper RRP: Mens & ladies £90, Junior £80
Alder has an established track record and strives to move the growth of its business forward with innovative technology and design, combined with a competitive strategy. Product developers have years of experience within the surfing industry which leads Alder to boast a very exciting range of summer and winter wetsuits, boards and accessories for all abilities.
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WITHIN THE SURFING INDUSTRY WAVELENGTHMAG.CO.UK
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SUMMER WETSUIT GUIDE contact: web: c-skins.com fb: facebook.com/cskinswetsuits twitter: twitter.com/cskinswetsuits email: info@cjbsurf.co.uk tel: +44(0)1208 78845 C-Skins create premium wetsuits using the latest innovations in neoprene technology with the highest quality materials and workmanship. That’s it!
HotWired 3x2 Steamer: The Best just got Better. The HotWired has a totally stitchless construction and uses all of C-Skins exclusive innovations, including H2X Dry Flex outer lining for a lighter, warmer surf; external Power Seams, C-Flex Hot Taped inner seams, Future Fit, Lock Down cuffs, and the unique Quick Dry 15 polypro inner lining that drains water away from your wetsuit in a capillary action keeping you warmer, lighter and drier. RRP: £249.99
Wired 3x2 Steamer: The wetsuit that our team riders wear, their input as well as many others has shaped and moulded the Wired into C-Skins most iconic wetsuit. A high end spec, including features such as Ultra Stretch C-Flex neoprene, Firecore Poly Pro lining, Power Seams, Lock Down cuffs and the Enigma Free Floating zip system makes this wetsuit truly stand out, (and that’s without mentioning the signature team colours!). The Wired provides the rider with uncompromised stretch, comfort and warmth. RRP: £199.99
ReWired 3x2 Steamer: The ‘comp’ version of the Wired; its featherlike weight, flexibility and warmth makes this a brilliant choice for Spring and Summer use. It features a ton of C-Skins innovations, such as the exclusive Enigma Free Floating zip system, P.E.T Recycled polypro chest lining, Future Fit and C-Flex Hot Tape internal seams at critical points. The ReWired truly is mind blowing performance at an affordable price. RRP: £149.99
THE LATEST INNOVATIONS IN NEOPRENE TECHNOLOGY WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY MATERIALS
Xero Pro: Our light-weight, super flexible, high performance suit. For the demanding surfer whose first concern is the freedom of movement. Features: Horizontal dislocating chest zip / Impact welded seams / Preformed panel / Fused edges / AX1 Airlite superflex RRP: 302, £260.00
Foil: Now 100% AX2 Airlite Superflex Neoprene ! Combined with a host of additional features, the foil stands as the bench mark in quality and afford ability for a surf wetsuit. The best just got better. Features: Contour collar / Horizontal dislocating chest zip / Furnace thermal lining / AX2 airlite superflex / Critical impact welded seams / Strategic seam placement. RRP: 302, £130.00
contact: web: billabong.com fb: facebook.com/billabongmenseurope tweet: twitter.com/billabongeurope email: officeuk@billabong.tm.fr tel: 00 44 16 56 74 69 84 Billabong is at the forefront of research and development into wetsuit technology as part of its commitment to deliver the world’s warmest, most flexible, comfortable and best quality wetsuits. This commitment has been in place since 1984 and is matched by Billabong’s significant investment into its dedicated wetsuit design team and Xero Furnace: Designed specifically its comprehensive marketing programs. for warmth and comfort. Utilising the most advanced materials and construction techniques coupled with an exclusive new entry system, it’s the most comfortable, warmest technical wetsuit you’ll ever have the pleasure of wearing. Features: Drymax furnace lining / Contour collar / AX1 Airlite superflex / Xero Skin / Strategic seam placement / Xero stitch less seam / Liquid dipped wrist seals. RRP: Available in 2mm £270.00, 3mm £300.00
FLEXIBLE, COMFORTABLE AND BEST QUALITY WETSUITS
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contact: web: adelio.com.au fb: facebook.com/AdelioClthng instagram: _adelio_ tumblr: adeliosurf.tumblr.com email: info@adelio.com.au tel: (+61) 2 4365 6982
3/2 Connor Deluxe Steamer: Adelio’s Premium Suit, constructed from a Japanese based limestone Neoprene accompanied by a full torso wind shield rubber wrap and full bodied Therm-Loc Lining. Other features include - GBS and fusion welded liquid seams / 100 % quad flex neoprene / Duro stretch knee pads / Liquid ankle and cuff internal grip seals / Easy pull over hood entry / YKK zipper with external clamp down press stud / Water temp 12-18 Deluxe features: Full torso wrap in wind shield rubber / Adelio Thermo-Loc lining (additional lining throughout entire middle region) RRP: £240.00 ($449.00) sizes XS, S, MS, M, MT, L, XL
3/2 Connor Steamer: Super soft Therma-Loc lining designed to retain the heat your body generates whilst wicking moisture away, keeping you drier and warmer for longer. Other features include GBS and fusion welded liquid seams / 100 % quad flex neoprene / Duro stretch knee pads / Liquid ankle and cuff internal grip seals / Easy pull over hood entry / YKK zipper with external clamp down press stud / Adelio Thermo-Loc lining / Water temp 15-20 RRP: £220.00 ($409.00) sizes XS, S, MS, M, MT, L, XL
2/2 Connor Short Arm Steamer: Comfort in the eco friendly Japanese based limestone Neoprene. Adelio runs all their suits at a Ltd Ed. 1/70. Stand out, Not In, from the crowd! Other features include - GBS and fusion welded liquid seams / 100 % quad flex neoprene / Duro stretch knee pads / Liquid ankle and cuff internal grip seals / Easy pull over hood entry / YKK zipper with external clamp down press stud / Adelio Thermo-Loc lining / Water temp 17-22 RRP: £190.00 ($349.00) sizes XS, S, MS, M, MT, L, XL
Founded in 2008, Adelio has grown from humble beginnings of ideas, sketches and dreams. A belief and ideology that a brand can be more than something that is worn or used but can shape an individual – from the inside out. Pairing these ideas with an undeniable passion for form and function plus a driving force of fashion and style, created this ever evolving brand.
AN UNDENIABLE PASSION FOR FORM AND FUNCTION
contact: web: patagonia.com fb: facebook.com/patagoniasurfeurope tweet: @PatagoniaSurfEU email: store.sansebastian@patagonia.com tel: +34 943 290 126
M’s R2 Front-Zip Full Suit: Super-flexible neoprene and a warm and comfortable merino wool lining, the R2 Front-Zip Full Suit offers unparalleled freedom of movement when you‘re arcing into turns. Features include new anatomical patterning, external sealing on all seams to eliminate leaks, a midweight wool lining in the torso and thighs for warmth, and a lightweight recycled polyester lining in the sleeves and legs for optimal performance and stretch. With simplified front-zip entry and enlarged PVC-free kneepads for long-lasting durability. Critical seams and high-stress areas are secured with glue dots, 1cm bartacks and Melco® reinforcements. For cool water 12-18º C. RRP: £360.00
M’s R3 Front Zip Full Suit: High-quality neoprene and a merino wool lining that offers trustworthy warmth, strength and flex, the R3 Front-Zip Full Suit keeps you charging. Features include new anatomical patterning, external sealing on all seams to eliminate leaks, a heavyweight wool lining in the torso and thighs to maximize warmth, and a new midweight wool lining in the sleeves and lower legs for increased performance and stretch. With simplified front-zip entry and enlarged PVC-free kneepads for long-lasting durability. Critical seams and high-stress areas are secured with glue dots, 1cm bartacks and Melco® reinforcements. For cold water 8-12º C. RRP: £380.00
Women‘s R1 Spring Juanita: Ten toes tickling the nose of your 9‘6“ log, the redesigned R1 Spring Juanita keeps you smiling on those glassy summer evening surfs. With playful lines and high-quality neoprene that provides excellent stretch and warmth, the Juanita‘s new fit holds snug to the body for maximum comfort and flex. Features include secure bikini-style tieback and a clean-finished Lycra® binding at the armholes and neck. Seams are sewn with flatlock construction for durability, and all critical seams and wear areas are secured with glue dots, 1cm bartacks and Melco® reinforcements. For warm water: 18-23° C. RRP: £65.00
The surf never tops, and a single year of chasing swell can take you from firing tropical reefs to frigid Artic points. At Patagonia, we take pride in being able to design and build the best equipment possible for any climate or ocean condition a committed surfer will encounter along the way.
WE TAKE PRIDE IN BEING ABLE TO DESIGN AND BUILD THE BEST EQUIPMENT POSSIBLE WAVELENGTHMAG.CO.UK
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contact: web: xcelwetsuits.com fb: facebook.com/xcelwetsuits tweet: @XCEL_wetsuits email: info@danielsurf.com tel: 01752 330772 Xcel’s reputation for exceptional product quality is a clear result of an unwavering dedication to research, development, and design innovation. With tropical to cold-water products for men, women, and youth, the brand stresses performance: maximum stretch and durability, sealed-seam construction, and a fit that feels custom-made every time. Xcel Revolt X2: Our latest fullsuit series, this Revolt features all-new TD3 Th3rmoDry - the ultimate neoprene, our warmest, lightest, and driest system yet. With exclusive material and seam innovations, the Revolt delivers amazing performance, warmth, and stretch. If you are looking for the ultimate summer wetsuit the Revolt should be first on the list for Summer 2014. RRP: £290.00
Xcel Infiniti X2 Comp: One-piece Comp body design (upper chest to knees): Less seam = more stretch; 100% Ultra- Stretch neoprene. Water resistant Interlock X2 front entry. Geometric Taitex ankle seals grip and seal. UltraStretch Fusion Seal inner zipper flap and wrist tape. ThermoCarbon (chest, lower body): Heat retaining dual fibre lining. As you see this suit is packed with features. However the key focus is stretch and performance, ensuring that your wetsuit doesn’t hold you back. RRP: £210.00
Xcel Axis X2: Xcel Axis series has had significant upgrades in 2014. Xcels signature Quick Dry Lining in the chest panel, premium glued & single needle blindstitched seam construction and obviously the original front zip entry system. The Axis Series delivers excellent warmth and stretch without breaking the bank. RRP: £150.00
Lunasurf Hybrid 2mm short arm: A high performance 2mm summer short arm wetsuit that feels like a second skin, keeping you warm, but still light and flexible. Made of super lightweight neoprene, which is stretchy but durable, it stills offers unbelievable warmth. Easy to get into and effortless to take off with the front zip which is fastened by a magnetic tab, the whole entry system is designed to keep water out. Kneepads allow flexibly and comfort, anti crack hi tech seals and taping using LUNASURF DNA liquid tape, make for flexible seals. Each suit is 100% hand made. RRP: £159.00
Lunasurf Hybrid 3.2mm - Gun Metal: A high performance 3.2mm summer wetsuit that feels like a second skin, keeping you warm, but still light and flexible. Made of super lightweight neoprene, which is stretchy but durable, it stills offers unbelievable warmth. Easy to get into and effortless to take off with the front zip which is fastened by a magnetic tab, the whole entry system is designed to keep water out. Kneepads allow flexibility and comfort, anti crack hi tech seals and taping using LUNASURF DNA liquid tape, make for flexible seals. Each suit is 100% hand made. RRP: £239.00
A FIT THAT FEELS CUSTOMMADE EVERY TIME
contact: web: lunasurf.co.uk fb: facebook.com/Lunasurf tweet: @Lunasurf_shop email: info@lunasurf.co.uk tel: +44 1534 740 777 We pride ourselves on being independently owned and operated at Lunasurf. Our staff are legit and love to surf, including founder Ian Battrick. Who along with the result of decades of knowledge from our team riders, work closely with us testing, refining and validating our wetsuits, surfboard traction, leashes and other products in the harshest conditions and some of the most remote locations on the planet - from subzero and snow to the sweltering tropics.
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Lunasurf Hybrid 3.2mm - Ink Blue: A high performance 3.2mm summer wetsuit that feels like a second skin, keeping you warm, but still light and flexible. Made of super lightweight neoprene, which is stretchy but durable, it stills offers unbelievable warmth. Easy to get into and effortless to take off with the front zip which is fastened by a magnetic tab, the whole entry system is designed to keep water out. Kneepads allow flexibility and comfort, anti crack hi tech seals and taping using LUNASURF DNA liquid tape, make for flexible seals. Each suit is 100% hand made. RRP: £239.00