Choosing the right wetsuit is crucial for enjoying water activities, and understanding the different types of wetsuit zippers is a key part of this decision. While often overlooked, the zipper style significantly impacts a wetsuit’s warmth, flexibility, and ease of use, all of which play a role in your comfort in varying water temperatures. Let’s dive into the world of wetsuit zippers – back zip, chest zip, and zipperless – to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Back Zip Wetsuits: The Classic Entry Point
Back zip wetsuits are recognized by their long zipper running down the spine. This traditional design is often favored for its straightforward entry and exit. The long zipper opening makes it easier to step into and out of the wetsuit, a significant advantage when dealing with the snug fit of neoprene. A cord is typically attached to the zipper pull, enabling self-zipping.
However, the back zip design has a potential drawback. The zipper seam along the back can be a point where water entry occurs. In colder waters, this can lead to chilling as water flushes through. To combat this, many brands incorporate flush guard technologies, like Quiksilver’s Hydroshield, to minimize water entry through the back zipper. Another consideration is flexibility; bending forward in a back zip wetsuit can create tension across the back and zipper, potentially restricting movement.
Chest Zip Wetsuits: Enhanced Warmth and Flexibility
Chest zip wetsuits feature a zippered opening located around the neckline. Entry involves opening the chest zip, entering through the neck opening, and then pulling the neck panel over your head before zipping up across the chest. While chest zip wetsuits can be slightly more challenging to get into and out of compared to back zip models, they offer notable benefits, particularly in terms of warmth.
The primary advantage of a chest zip is its superior ability to prevent water penetration. The overlapping neck and chest closure minimizes water entry through seams, keeping you warmer, especially in colder water conditions. Additionally, the absence of a long back zipper contributes to greater flexibility across the back panel. Chest zip wetsuits often provide a more comfortable and snug fit around the neck, which can also reduce the likelihood of chafing.
Zipperless Wetsuits: Maximum Mobility
Zipperless wetsuits prioritize flexibility and range of motion. Typically found in lighter wetsuit models (like 3/2mm and thinner) and neoprene tops, these suits are designed for activities where unrestricted movement is paramount. By eliminating zippers and extensive stitching, zipperless wetsuits offer enhanced stretch and comfort, making them ideal for paddling and surfing.
The entry system for zipperless wetsuits varies, often utilizing a chest or neck opening secured with a smaller zipper, elastic, or Velcro closure. While maximizing mobility, zipperless designs may slightly compromise warmth compared to chest zip or back zip suits in very cold conditions, as they sometimes rely on tighter fits and less robust sealing mechanisms. However, for warmer water temperatures where flexibility is key, zipperless wetsuits are an excellent choice.
When choosing a wetsuit, consider the water temperature you’ll be encountering and the type of activity you’ll be doing. Understanding the nuances of wetsuit zipper types is an important step in selecting a wetsuit that provides the right balance of warmth, flexibility, and convenience for your water adventures.
