Cheap Wetsuits: Top 5 Best Reviews
Cheap Wetsuits: Top 5 Best Reviews
Choosing a wetsuit boils down to more than just how it looks, or how cheap or expensive it is. Cheap wetsuits are usually poorly made and don’t stand the test of time, though you don’t want to go off and spend over £400 on a suit that isn’t tailored to your needs.
It can sometimes be a tricky process.
However, that’s why we’re here. At Oyster Diving, we understand the difficulties that come with picking and choosing diving gear. In fact, we’ve reviewed the best diving watches, cameras, the best places to dive in the Red Sea, shark diving the UK and even the most mysterious shipwrecks, because we’re more than just a diving website.
So, below you’ll find our best wetsuit reviews, in no particular order, as we’ve judged them based on what they’ve been specifically made for.
5. Rip Curl
E-Bomb Rip Curl have been on the scene for nearly 50 years now, and are constantly creating fantastic products. While not exactly new, the E-Bomb wetsuit has really stood the test of time, and can stand proud next to its more expensive brother, the Flash Bomb wetsuit.
Material
The E-Bomb wetsuit uses E4 Neoprene (also used in Flash Bomb’s wetsuit technology) and E4+ internal tape. The tape serves as a fluid seam, ensuring warmth and better circulation across the body when in harsher temperatures. Mesh skin is also a welcoming feature on the back of the wetsuit, as this helps to absorb heat and also minimises wind chill.
Verdict
Definitely one of the more affordable wetsuits on the market, and the design formula is second to none. Well worth the money, and with Rip Curl stitched on the front, you know it’s a brand you can trust.
4. O’Neill Heat
Another fan favourite, O’Neill continues its dominance in the surf industry. This has been a best-seller for quite a while now, and is a huge fan favourite for a number of simple reasons. This is a suit that is practical, comfortable, strong, and most importantly, dependable.
Material
Ultraflex neoprene lines the suit, with external fluid seams morphed over the triple-glued seams. What does that mean? It’s basically been specifically designed for every temperature, and for constant use. This is the sort of suit you can buy, and immediately throw away your receipt (we don’t advise this, however) it’s just that reliable. The zip is also very sturdy, and while this is may seem a pedantic point to make, it’s an incredibly important feature on wetsuits.
Verdict
Available in a massive range of sizes (going up to 3XL/4XL) this is arguably the best suit out there if its reliability you’re looking for. A definite favourite.
3. Billabong
Furnace Carbon Comp This is for the people who prefer to surf/dive/swim with incredible freedom. Billabong’s Furnace Carbon Comp (FCC) wetsuit is a thing of elegant beauty, and you’ll see and feel its benefits as soon as you slip into it. Yes, it’s main selling point is that it’s a lightweight wetsuit, but there is more than meets that.
Material
A plush lining runs through the thorax area all the way down to the knees, adding warmth and keeping the wearer dry. Due to its lightweight design, it also dries incredibly quickly, and we mean that. This makes is a fantastic wetsuit for the rainier days. It’s also very easy to get on thanks to its zipper design. Billabong wetsuits are usually designed with accessibility in mind, and the zipper on the FCC is very easy to operate.
Verdict
An external fluid seam covers the most crucial areas of the suit to minimise weight, so if you can handle a bit of chill every now and again, the suit is well worth your money. So, if you’re looking for a lightweight wetsuit that’s easily accessible and wearable throughout the seasons. Plus, it comes in cool orange and blue colours! Definitely a fashionable wetsuit.
2. Hurley Fusion
Another cheap alternative in the wetsuit line, Hurley’s Fusion wetsuit is aimed at those seeking a bargain.
Material
Inside Hurley’s Fusion wetsuit, they’ve opted for a lining material in the core area to add a little warmth. Similar to Rip Curl’s Flash Lining, Fusion had incorporated it into their design for an overall comfortable fit. While the zip function on the Fusion wetsuit differs to its competition, it’s still easily accessible.
Verdict
While Hurley wouldn’t be my first-choice for wetsuit purchasing, they’ve certainly upped their game here. This is a solid, robust, no nonsense wetsuit that does exactly what it says on the tin.
1. Quicksilver Highline
Now to end on something new, Quicksilver’s Highline draws in comfort and flexibility to create a suit of elegance.
Material
As this is an update on their AG-47 model, Highline has done well in incorporating their F’N Light neoprene into their wetsuit. The zipper has been re-designed and improved since the AG-47 zip. Again, Quicksilver has opted for an external fluid seam weld covering all the glue and blind-stitched seams for added aestheticism and flexibility. Inside you’ll find something that they have named ‘far infrared’, which basically helps with retaining warmth and comfort.
Verdict
This is a suit designed for the harsher weather, perfect for those cold mornings and blustery windy days. It also comes zipper-less if you so desire! Hope you enjoyed my best wetsuit review for 2017! Sure, some of these are getting on in their old age, but this doesn’t mean that they can’t keep up with newer designs. Why change something that isn’t broken? If you’re interested in testing out one of these suits, why not make one of our diving trips your first destination? We have so much to offer on our trips, all the information you need is right here, so what are you waiting for?