Do I need a back zip, chest zip or zipless wetsuit?

June 07, 2023

If you’re on a wetsuit shopping mission, you will notice that there is a great variety in wetsuits: you can choose from a range of styles, features and thickness grades. One of the factors that has the biggest impact on the performance and comfort of a wetsuit, however, is the zip system. No wonder that many surfers ask whether they need a back zip, chest zip or zipless wetsuit. In this blog, we will explain the differences between the available zip and entry systems, so you can choose the wetsuit that best matches your desired use.

Do I need a back zip, chest zip or zipless wetsuit?

Why is the zip system of a wetsuit important?

The zip or entry system has a huge influence on the flexibility and ease of use of a wetsuit. As a rule, bigger zippers mean less flexibility. At the same time, bigger zippers make it easier to put on and take off a wetsuit. Therefore, it is important to find the right balance between flex and convenience.

Back zip wetsuits

For decades, back zips were the most common zip system for wetsuits. Back zip wetsuits have a large vertical zipper along the back that can be zipped up with a chord. To seal out water, most back zip wetsuits have a neoprene panel behind the zipper and a velcro closure in the neck area. The big zipper that can be zipped down all the way to the waist makes it very easy to get in and take off the suit. Because the zipper itself isn’t flexible however, a back zip wetsuit offers less flexibility. Apart from that, the zipper also affects the insulating capacities of your wetsuit.

Therefore, back zips are now mostly found in entry-level and kids wetsuits.
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All O'Neill back zip wetsuits

Chest zip wetsuits

Chest zip wetsuits, have become the new standard in performance wetsuits. Chest zips provide a better fit and more insulation. In this wetsuit design, a zipper runs horizontally along the chest to connect the collar that goes over your head with the lower part of the wetsuit. The shorter zip improves the flexibility of your suit, but makes it a bit harder to get in and take it off. Fortunately, the neoprene that is used in wetsuits these days has become much more flexible. As a result, putting on a chest zip suit is less of a struggle than it used to be.

At O’Neill, the chest zip system is called F.U.Z.E. technology. Please note that there are also front zip suits and vests with a zipper running vertically over the front of the garment. These are however not suitable for surfing!
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All O'Neill chest zip wetsuits

Zipless wetsuits

Zipless or zip free wetsuits, as the names suggest, do not have a zipper. Instead, they rely on stretchy materials, specifically designed collars and adjustable closures like velcro or snap buttons to provide a snug fit. This design enhances flexibility and minimizes water entry. Zipless wetsuits can be more challenging to put on and take off, requiring a bit more time and effort. Because zipless entries only work with thin, flexible neoprene, this entry system is only found in summer and spring suits, and not in high-performing winter wetsuits.

At O’Neill, the zipless system is called COMP technology.
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All O'Neill zipless wetsuits

Conclusion

When deciding which type of zip system to choose, consider factors such as comfort, ease of use, mobility, and insulation. If you are not sure, it can be helpful to try on different types of wetsuits and see which style fits your body shape and movement preferences best.

Do I need a back zip, chest zip or zipless wetsuit?

Why is the zip system of a wetsuit important?

Back zip wetsuits

All O'Neill back zip wetsuits

Chest zip wetsuits

All O'Neill chest zip wetsuits

Zipless wetsuits

All O'Neill zipless wetsuits

Conclusion

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Why is the zip system of a wetsuit important?

Back zip wetsuits

All O'Neill back zip wetsuits

Chest zip wetsuits

All O'Neill chest zip wetsuits

Zipless wetsuits

All O'Neill zipless wetsuits

Conclusion

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