Reactor II by O’Neill is one of the most popular surf wetsuits on the market. There are so many model variations for everyone out there. It’s a great spring/summer entry-level wetsuit that comes in many different shapes, sizes, and designs.
O’Neill is the oldest wetsuit manufacturers out there – well known for its large range of sizes and models at an affordable price tag. As the Reactor series is originally designed for such high activity-sport as surfing, many people also use it on all sorts of other water-related activities such as snorkeling, swimming, freediving, sailing, kayaking and so on.
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Why get an entry-level surf wetsuit? It’s an ideal choice for “Sunday surfers” or for any other warm-water activities. Don’t get me wrong – The Reactor is widely used among experienced surfers as well due to its’ simplicity and durability.
Related Reviews
O’Neill O’Riginal – Awesome mid-range surf wetsuit
O’Neill Epic – Another great mid-range wetsuit by O’Neill
O’Neill Hyperfreak – Top-range O’Neil surf wetsuit full overview with all the models and sizes
O’Neill Psycho – Another awesome high-tech performance-driven wetsuit
O’Neill Reactor 2 Review
Reactor II is the updated version of the Reactor
Reactor II is engineered for performance in a value-driven package. A fresh combination of stretch and durability. Fresh colors and graphics with style that’s built to last.
Model availability:
- 1mm | 1.5mm | 2mm | 3/2
- Back-zip | Front-zip
- Top | Pull-Over Vest | Long-Sleeve Jacket | Shorts | Shorty | Long Jane | Long John | Full Suit
FABRIC
- UltraFlex/FluidFoam Neoprene Combination
- Mesh smooth skin
- Fluid foam chest & back
- Dry seal smooth skin
- Fluid foam neck
- Hidden key pocket
- YKK zip system
Washing instruction: Rinse with cool water and drip dry out of direct sunlight
SPECIFICATIONS
- 100% UltraFlex DS neoprene
- High-performance super-stretch neoprene with a durable outer skin that resists velcro pulls and snags
- Stretch factor: 150% which means it stretches up to 1/3 out of its original fit for perfect fitment
- Flatlock stitched – The most popular method of sewn construction. The stitch uses 4 needles and 6 threads and works by overlapping the neoprene panels and sewing them together. It is a strong stitch and is very comfortable because it is flat, but it is not a sealed seam so it is not intended for extremely cold conditions.
- Strategic seamless paddle zones An ergonomic, seamless undersleeve panel that allows for unrestricted motion and eliminates rashing. Flexible and unique design that utilizes minimal seam placement for comfort.
- Krypto knee pads Abrasion resistant, high stretch neoprene panel with ergonomic shaping for comfortable durability. The flexible and unique design utilizes an extended knee pad for added durability.
PRICE
Anywhere from $70 up to $200
O’Neill Reactor 2 CONS:
- The flatlock stitching lets water come through, but that’s expected to any suit with that type of stitching
- It’s an entry-level summer/springsuit with basic technology and limited thicknesses
CONCLUSIONS
Price: 5/5
Technology: 3/5
Flexibility 3/5
Design: 3/5
Sizes: 5/5
Types: 5/5
Total Score: 4/5
What I personally like the most about the Reactor series is that it features a ton of different sizes for everyone – from toddlers, boys&girls, and up to men with a beer barrel. After reading a ton of reviews, most people find it very comfortable and well-fitting.
Key Factors When Choosing A Wetsuit
- TYPE – Determine which type of wetsuit do you need: A top, short sleeve top, or a full suit.
- THICKNESS – Choose the right thickness for the season.
- SIZE – Make sure you get exactly the right size. When you have to choose between two sizes, weight is more important!
Thickness & activity recommendations
- 1mm – Comfortable for summer use only
Snorkeling, Swimming, Kayaking, Surfing, Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Kiteboarding
- 1.5mm – Warm weather activities
Snorkeling, Swimming, Kayaking, Surfing, Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Kiteboarding, Sailing
- 2mm – Summer suit. An ideal choice for those in-between weathers where 1mm would be too cold and 3mm too restrictive. Perfect for freediving as it’s not that thick and floaty.
Snorkeling, Swimming, Kayaking, Surfing, Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Kiteboarding, Freediving, Diving, Sailing
- 3/2 – Springsuit. Great for those late spring/early autumn frisky sessions
O’Neill Reactor 2 For Men
Sizes from 168cm to 193cm / 5’6″ to 6’4″
52kg to 122kg / 115 lbs to 270lbs
Men’s O’Neill Reactor 2 Size Guide
O’Neill Reactor 2 for Women
Sizes from 155cm to 183cm / 5’1″ to 6’0″
40.75kg to 84kg / 90lbs to 185lbs
Women’s O’Neill Reactor Size Guide
O’Neill Reactor 2 Models for Youth
Sizes from from 2’10.5″ to 5’7″ / 87cm to 170cm
25lbs to 135 lbs / 11kg to 61kg
Youth’s O’Neill Reactor 2 Size Guide:
O’Neill Reactor 2 For Toddlers
Want your wetsuit to last? Check out our wetsuit care guide.
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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.
