Chest Zip vs Back Zip Wetsuit: Which Is Right For Me?
Lauren November 20th, 2024 Posted In: Articles
Choosing the right wetsuit can make or break your time in the water, and one of the biggest factors to consider is whether a chest zip or back zip wetsuit suits your needs best. Both designs come with unique benefits and challenges, and your choice often depends on factors like comfort, mobility, ease of use, and the type of watersport you enjoy.
In short: back zips are ideal for convenience and ease of entry, while chest zips excel in providing better insulation and mobility. Below, we take a deeper look at a chest zip vs back zip wetsuit to help you decide which style is perfect for your adventures!
What Is a Chest Zip Wetsuit?
A chest zip wetsuit features a zipper that runs across the chest area. To put on a chest zip wetsuit, you pull it over your shoulders, enter through the neck opening, and zip up the front. This design is increasingly popular among surfers and other active water sporters who need flexibility and warmth.
Pros of a Chest Zip Wetsuit:
Better Water Seal: The chest zipper design creates a tighter seal, reducing water entry. This means you’ll stay warmer, especially in colder waters.
Increased Mobility and Use: Without having to grab for the zipper behind you, chest zips provide greater flexibility and ease of use, which is essential for paddling or high-motion activities like surfing.
Streamlined Design: Chest zips tend to have a sleeker profile, which reduces drag and helps with overall performance in the water.
Cons of a Chest Zip Wetsuit:
Harder to Get On and Off: Pulling the suit over your shoulders can be tricky, especially if it’s wet. Beginners might struggle with this entry style initially. Putting on a chest zip the first few times may not be for the faint of heart as it’s a little more involved than a back zipper.
Less Affordable: Due to the added insulation and advanced construction, chest zip wetsuits can sometimes be just ever-so-slightly pricier than their back zip counterparts.
What Is a Back Zip Wetsuit?
A back zip wetsuit features a long zipper running down the spine, making it easy to step into the suit and zip up with the help of a cord attached to the zipper. This classic design is a favorite for recreational water activities and those new to wetsuits.
Pros of a Back Zip Wetsuit:
Easier to Put On and Take Off: The wide opening created by the back zipper makes it straightforward to get in and out of the suit, even for beginners.
Affordable and Widely Available: Back zips are generally less expensive and come in a wide range of styles for various water temperatures and activities.
Comfortable for Some Activities: For less intense activities, like snorkeling or recreational swimming, a back zip wetsuit may feel perfectly adequate.
Cons of a Back Zip Wetsuit:
More Water Leakage: The zipper at the back can allow water to seep in, especially when diving or surfing in rough conditions, leading to less warmth.
Restricted Flexibility: The back zipper can limit mobility, particularly when bending or twisting, which may be a drawback for sports like surfing or kiteboarding.
Chest Zip vs. Back Zip Wetsuit: Which Is Right for You?
There’s no definitive answer to which wetsuit style is better or perfect just for you—it all depends on your priorities and the type of activity you’ll be doing. Let’s break it down further:
Choose a Chest Zip Wetsuit If:
- You need maximum warmth: The snug seal of a chest zip keeps cold water out, making it ideal for colder water temperatures or winter surfing.
- Flexibility is essential: High-performance athletes, particularly surfers, will appreciate the enhanced range of motion chest zips offer.
- You want minimal drag: The low-profile design of a chest zip helps you glide through the water with less resistance.
Choose a Back Zip Wetsuit If:
- Ease of entry matters: Back zips are a breeze to put on and take off, making them beginner-friendly.
- You’re on a budget: Back zip wetsuits are typically more affordable than chest zips.
- Your activity is low-intensity: If you’re snorkeling, swimming, or enjoying leisurely paddleboarding, a back zip wetsuit may meet all your needs without the premium price tag!
Tips for Choosing the Right Wetsuit for You
- Assess Your Activity: Think about the level of motion and temperature conditions for your primary watersport. For instance, surfers and cold-water divers may benefit from a chest zip, while casual snorkelers might prefer a back zip.
- Try Before You Buy: The fit of a wetsuit and ease of use are crucial. If possible, visit a local surf shop or wetsuit retailer to see which zip style is right for you!
- Consider Water Temperatures: If you’re frequently in colder waters and need a wetsuit for cold water temps, the superior insulation of a chest zip might outweigh its trickier entry.
- Budget Accordingly: Back zips are more affordable and accessible, while chest zips may be worth the investment for frequent use or more demanding water activities.
Conclusion: Which Wetsuit Zip Style Is Right for You?
When it comes to the chest zip vs. back zip wetsuit debate, your choice boils down to your specific needs and preferences. Chest zips are excellent for warmth, flexibility, and high-performance watersports, while back zips are great for beginners, casual use, and affordability.
Still unsure? The best way to decide is to consider your primary activity, budget, and comfort. Whatever you choose, a high-quality wetsuit—whether chest zip or back zip—ensures that you can enjoy the water to its fullest. Ready to find your perfect wetsuit? Explore our range of chest zip and back zip wetsuits at Wetsuit Wearhouse and be fully prepped and geared up for your next water adventure!
