10 Best Wetsuits 2025 in the United States

The O'Neill Wetsuits Men's REACTOR-2 3/2MM Back Zip Full Wetsuit is a solid entry-level wetsuit designed for various water activities like surfing, diving, paddle sports, lake activities, and beach days. With a thickness of 3 millimeters, it offers decent insulation for moderate water temperatures, making it suitable for most recreational water settings. The wetsuit features a backzip system which allows for easy entry and exit, and includes a water-resistant closure to minimize water intrusion.

The Ultra Stretch Neoprene material used is a standout feature, providing superior softness, flexibility, and comfort, enhancing performance. Moreover, the wind-resistant Smoothskin adds extra insulation and protection against the cold, which is valuable in windy conditions. The seamless paddle zones reduce seam placement, increasing comfort and mobility during paddling, which is a thoughtful design aspect for active water sports.

The fit is tailored for adults with a larger chest and waist size, ensuring a snug and secure fit for those with a taller stature. However, the neoprene material, while flexible and comfortable, may not offer the same durability as higher-end wetsuits, which could be a drawback for frequent users. Additionally, the backzip, although convenient, is generally less favored compared to chest zips for high-performance surfing due to potential water leakage. This wetsuit is best suited for casual users or those new to water sports, offering good value, comfort, and flexibility at an entry-level price point.

The O'Neill Wetsuits Men's Epic 4/3mm Back Zip Full Wetsuit is a versatile choice for various water activities like surfing, diving, and paddle sports. One of its standout features is its 4/3mm UltraFlex Neoprene material, which offers excellent flexibility and comfort. The thickness is ideal for moderate to cooler water temperatures, making it suitable for a range of conditions. The backzip system is designed for easy entry and exit, ensuring a watertight seal to keep you dry. However, some users might find back zippers slightly less convenient compared to front zippers over time, especially for solo entry and exit.

The wetsuit's seams are blind stitched and triple glued, which significantly enhances its durability and water resistance. This construction helps in preventing water from seeping in, keeping you warmer during extended periods in the water. Additionally, the internal thermo chest panel and wind-resistant FluidFlex Firewall panels provide extra insulation and protection against cold conditions, which is a great advantage.

The fit is tailored to accommodate a range of body measurements with its 'Large Short' size, suitable for individuals with chest sizes between 40-44 inches and height around 5'9.5''. The wetsuit also includes features like a double super seal neck to prevent water entry and strategic seamless paddle zones for better mobility. It is recommended to try on wetsuits, if possible, to ensure the best fit, as the sizing can sometimes vary slightly. The O'Neill Epic wetsuit is a high-quality, durable, and flexible option that should meet the needs of most water sports enthusiasts, though some might need to get used to the back zipper.