Zipless surf wetsuits are a new thing that shares many characteristics to chest-zip wetsuits, and by now – Rip Curl G-Bomb is dominating this field. Only a handful of surfing brands have released zip-free wetsuits on their premium model range. There are a few more zipless models for men, but hopefully, there’ll be a bigger variety anytime soon as zipperless wetsuits are said to be one of the warmest, flexible and lightweight suits for surfing!
Table of Contents
Intro & FAQ
Chest zip vs. Back zip vs Zipless
Zip free = Zipperless = Zipless
Why To Get a Zipless Wetsuit?
Most, if not all zipless wetsuit are of a premium range. Surfers who have used zipless wetsuit are amazed by the warmth the suit holds, while a 3/2 feels like a 2/2mm suit and 5/4 feels like 4/3. Zipless wetsuits are super lightweight and stretch very well!
How to get in and out of the zipperless wetsuit? The same way as using a chest zip. Avoid stretching the suit too much, simply work your way up step by step, Feet first obviously, then one hand followed by the other and finally pull the loop over the head and tighten the cord.
What Size Wetsuit Am I?
The most important thing about getting a wetsuit is choosing the right size. Each brand has its own sizing charts so make sure to check before getting one for you! If you are going to try on a zipless suit at a surf store, don’t get scared by the tightness of the suit at first. Every new wetsuit might feel restrictive on dry skin and starts forms over your body once you get in the water.
As all the zip free wetsuits are by Rip Curl, check out your size from here
Chest Zip vs. Back Zip vs. Zipperless
Chest Zip Wetsuit
PRO‘s
Less zipper area = larger panels = more flexibility = smaller chance of skin rash due to excess stitchings
CON‘s
Small entrance hole = can’t wear wetsuit halfway on the body to walk to the beach
Back Zip Wetsuit
PRO‘s
Large entrance area = easy entry = Can walk to the beach wearing the suit as pants
CON‘s
More flushing as there are more stitchings between the panels = larger zipper where water could sweep through
Zipless Wetsuit
PRO‘s
Very little stitchings = large panels = feels like wearing nothing = maximum paddle performance = no zipper to break or wear out
CON‘s
Entry/exit of the suit might need to get used to at first, can’t wear the wetsuit halfway on walking down the beach.
After all, it’s up to personal preferences which one suits you the best. Different brand wetsuits have a different feel and fit, and many surfers go through quite a few different suits before staying true to the one.
Best Zip Free Surf Wetsuits for Women
So, you want to give it a go and get a zip-free wetsuit? Good, since down here are listed only the premium models that will satisfy your needs. Zipless wetsuits are said to be the most flexible, lightweight, and warmest compared to other suits in the same thickness range, so off you go and find your size and color scheme!
RIP CURL G-BOMB ZIP FREE 3/2 FULLSUIT
The G-Bomb series from Rip Curl is one of their top models. Rip Curl compared to other women’s surf wetsuit brands stands out due to its unique and minimalistic style. Matter of fact, I’ve never seen a dull-looking product from Rip Curl.
- Recommended Temperature Range For Rip Curl 3/2: 58 – 68’F / 15 – 20’C
- Available sizes: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14
- Colors: Black/White, Navy
- Price: $280
Available from
HansenSurf
Amazon
FEATURES
- E6 Neoprene – Latest & Greatest
- E6 Tape + GBS seams
- 100% E6 Thermo Lining throughout the whole suit
- Smooth Skin Collar – maximizing comfort and minimizing the leakage
- Stitchless underarms
- Adjustable Lock-Slide closure system
- Magnetic stash pocket – to store the keys
- Taped stress points for increased strength and durability
- S-Flex knee pads – Maximum flexibility and durability
RIP CURL G-BOMB ZIP FREE 4/3 FULLSUIT
One of the most flexible and lightweight 4/3 steamers to get on the market! You’ll be surprised how warm this suit is compared to the feel of it. It feels like a 3/2!
- Recommended Temperature Range: 52 – 58’F / 11 – 14’C
- Available sizes: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14
- Colors: Black/White, Navy
- MSRP: $300
FEATURES
- E6 Neoprene
- E6 Tape
- 100% E6 Thermo Lining
- Stress Point Taped for extra durability
- Stash Pocket for keys
- Seamless underarms & shoulders for maximum comfort
- Glued & Blindstitched seams – A must for cold-water surfing
- Drainage System on the entrance to prevent cold water from entering the suit
- S-Flex Knees
- Lock Slide Design
RIP CURL WOMEN’S G-BOMB 5/3mm ZIPPERLESS FULLSUIT
The warmest zip-free steamer for women! It’s super lightweight and flexible compared to many other cold-water wetsuits. Definitely worth a try!
- Temperature Range: 43 – 52’F / 6 – 11’C
- Available sizes: 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16
- Colors: Black/White, Navy
FEATURES
- E6 Neoprene – The most advanced neoprene by Rip Curl
- E6 Tape – GBS on all the stress points
- 100% E6 Thermo Lining – All new super stretch performance neoprene that surpasses industry standards
- Stress Point Taped for extra durability
- Stash Pocket for keys
- Seamless underarms & shoulders for maximum comfort
- Glued & Blindstitched seams – A must for cold-water surfing
- Drainage System on the entrance to prevent cold water from entering the suit
- S-Flex Knees
- Lock Slide Design|
Read next
Different Types of Surf Wetsuits
Wetsuit Care 101 – Complete guide to maintaining your wetsuit
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I created Nulltuul to share my experience, research and analysis with other surf enthusiasts out there. If I'm not surfing on my travels - I like to photograph waves, surfers, and the surf lifestyle in general.