Trying to choose between two wetsuits Help!

rkat45 · Since 02 Feb 2012 58 Posts Wisco

Hey I'm looking for a wet suit trying to choose between these two.
5/4/3mm Men's Billabong FOIL Steamer Full Wetsuit http://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/page/WW/mens-fullsuit-wetsuits/MWFU7F54
or
5/4/3mm Men's Hyperflex CYCLONE Cold Water Wetsuit
http://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/page/WW/mens-fullsuit-wetsuits/XC854MB
Let me know what you guys think. Any info on other suits and such will be appreciated.
Thanks, Roman

A.K. · Since 01 Jul 2006 190 Posts Stoked

Are you using it for surfing or kite surfing?

In kiting since you are mostly out of the water - some types of stretch material catch the little droplets of water which then get chilled by the wind. So dedicated kite surf suits often have complete coverage a windskin type neoprene rubber. Additionally they are cut looser in the arms.

Obviously you can use either suit for either sport. But if this suit is exclusively for cold water wind sport use then I would check out the suits from Promotion and understand the subtle but noticeable differences built into a kite surf specific wetsuit.

A.K.

nickdward · Since 11 Aug 2008 130 Posts Seattle Stoked

If you're going with Hyperflex I'd get the new Amp 3. This suit is a huge improvement over their older suits and value models, which were nothing special. Either get the Wind series 5/3 (can add hooded rashguard underneath) or the Hooded 5/4 (or 6/5 for really frigid).

The Amp 3 has a little higher price tag, but is budget compared to the top brands like Oneill (who makes the best suits in my opinion).

Your wetsuit is the one piece of equipment that will really affect your happiness during a session. It's worth investing in a good one.

ldhr · Since 21 Jul 2009 1489 Posts Hood River XTreme Poster

For a few dollars more - I recommend one with an attached hood and front zipper.
http://www.wetsuitwearhouse.com/page/WW/mens-fullsuits-hooded/XZ854MF
http://stores.wetsuit.com/-strse-153/SURFING-WETSUIT-FULLSUIT-6-fdsh-4/Detail.bok

Zippers in the back and regular collars are a recipe for getting cold water flushes.

I'm not sure there's such a thing as kite-specific wetsuit.
Promotion made a windsurfing specific wetsuit (enlarged forearms) for when your arms get pumped. That really doesn't apply to kiting.
If someone is marketing a kite specific suit - it probably refers to smooth skin, not the fit. Or maybe some beefed up material to prevent wear from harnesses.
Kiters need the same range of motion as surfers so a surf suit is appropriate for kiters.

There is an argument made for smooth skin vs. non smooth skin. I wore smooth skinned suits for 25 years and I'll never wear another. I'm a convert to stretchy suits lined with a plush material (poly, bamboo, wool).
Smooth skin suits don't stretch and there a pain to put on and take off, especially 5 mm suits when you're cold. They also tear much easier.
Are smooth skin suits any warmer in windy conditions? I think maybe you might notice it with the thinner suits (2 or 3 mm) but I've never had a warmer suit than my 5mm Hyperflex.
I think the attached hood and chest zipper make a big difference.
Even when I don't wear the hood - it keeps my neck warmer and prevents cold water from flushing when I'm in the water.
Stretchy suits are way easier to put on and off - especially if they're lined with poly, bamboo, or wool.

chrissmack · Since 08 Jun 2005 526 Posts portland Addicted

ballot write-in :

oniell mutant

jeremy · Since 18 Aug 2006 276 Posts Manzo & HR Obsessed

I was checking out 5/3s recently.

Last year's Hyperflex AMP-K 5/3 is on sale for a killer $125 price here:

http://www.kitepaddlesurf.com/Hyperflex-AMP-K-5-3-Full-Wetsuit-Front-Zip-XK853MF.htm

The 2012 is nicer, stretcher, better lining, better entry, but get the next size up on these, they are cut small. I decided against the Hyperflex because the arm fit was snug, I like a loose fit like on the Promotion suits.

I really wanted another Promotion suit, but decided to get a Neil Pryde for half the price, I've had their suits in the past and like them. Bought it from this store:

https://www.inlandsea.com/c-160-wetsuits.aspx

TWIN-FIN · Since 24 May 2006 805 Posts Portland, OR Hot Monkey

Get the one that fits you the best
Its not about bamboo or air pockets or super duper stretch.
Its really about how it fits you. It should be sung on your body not comfortable in the dressing room. As you get in the water and move around it will loosen up a little bit.
If your face turns red or you panic then its probably too tight.
A good fit will allow you to stay warm and keep you from getting flushed.

Ryan · Since 14 Jul 2005 537 Posts Oregon Addicted

http://www.nwkite.com/forums/t-25242.html

rkat45 · Since 02 Feb 2012 58 Posts Wisco

Hey thanks for the info guys. There is a local shop where i live that sells wetsuits and said they would let me try them on and such. So i think that is my best bet. Thanks

rkat45 · Since 02 Feb 2012 58 Posts Wisco

went to kite paddle surf and going to buy the Hyperflex amp k 5/3 wetsuit for 125 bucks!

BKA · Since 19 May 2011 43 Posts Harrison

Nice! talk about smokin deal eh!

Lurk · Since 04 Apr 2009 355 Posts Obsessed

o'niell HEAT