Rip Curl Flashbomb Wetsuit Review

From experienced surfers to young groms, everyone is loving the Rip Curl Flashbomb wetsuits. With its ability to keep you warm in some of the most frigid waters imaginable, it's no wonder why this has become one of Rip Curl's best-selling suits. Its neoprene blend provides insulation that surpasses any wool sweater and allows for greater flexibility when you're surfing powerful waves in some far-off corner of the globe. Additionally, Rip Curl offers this same amazing quality for all kinds of surfers, with men’s, women’s, and children’s models available. Nothing beats hitting the water wearing your Flashbomb and tackling whatever waves come your way.

Rip Curl Flasbomb Wetsuit

Neoprene and Liners

Rip Curl updated the Flashbomb’s rubber back in 2021 from E5 to E6 neoprene. E6 neoprene is found on Rip Curl’s high-end suits, such as the Heatseeker and E-Bomb. It’s been tested to be 25% more flexible and 15% lighter than E5. While it’s similar in warmth to E5, it’s really used more for its high-performance flex characteristics. Aside from being more flexible and lighter than E5, it’s also really comfortable.

The Flashbomb has E6 Flash Lining through 100% of the suit from head to toe. As alluded to above, the Flash Lining is known for its incredible warmth. Rip Curl markets the Flashbomb as the world’s fastest-drying wetsuit due to the quick-drying properties of the iconic pink liner. In addition, the lining is constructed from a synthetic fuzzy material that is also amazingly comfortable.

Furthermore, you’ll notice gray-looking areas on the chest, back, and hood. These are called mesh skin panels which absorb the sun’s rays to help create warmth in the suit. The extra panels also act as a wind barrier, cutting down on that frigid winter windchill.

Seams and Stitching

The Flashbomb is sealed internally throughout the suit with E6 Flash Lining Tape. This pliable tape looks like the lining it’s named after and has a pink, fuzzy appearance. Also, like the liner, it is comfortable and generally warmer than the standard internal tape used on most wetsuits.

Fit and Cut

From the upper body to the lower, the Flashbomb is built for superior comfort. The Flash Lining offers quick drying capability and warmth while still being pliable, so you can stay comfortable while wearing it. For those who prefer a more tailored fit, the men’s models offer a narrower cut in the shoulders, while women’s models feature longer torsos than other brands. And for days that require additional protection from cold weather, a snug-fitting hood will keep your chin warm and dry, no matter how chilly it gets.

If you find yourself on the fence between sizes of 6/4 or 5/4 suits - consider sizing up. Due to the suit's fully lined construction, it tends to fit on the smaller side.

Entry and Zipper

For a fully lined suit, it’s also relatively easy to get on and off. The low-profile zipper allows for greater freedom of movement throughout the paddling zone. The adjustable collar helps with cinching down the hood to help prevent water from flushing into the suit. So far, in our experience, the urethane-coated zipper holds up well against the daily onslaught of abrasive salt water.

The chest zipper isn’t threaded together when unzipped. That said, no sweat since it’s a simple and easy-to-thread zipper. The Men’s 4/3 model also comes in a back zip option. You shouldn’t have any problems zipping up yourself with the lengthy leash.

Performance

With E6 neoprene, E6 Flash Lining, and E6 tape combined in the Flashbomb wetsuit, no cold water can hold you back. The suit provides premium high-stretch performance that keeps you warm even when the elements are at their absolute chilliest. While it isn't the ideal choice for maximum flexibility, the fully lined and taped design will still make sure you give a great showing on those cold water days. On top of that, if you’re based in the Pacific Northwest - where warmer days bring water temperatures to 55 F+ - then this suit is just what you need.

Value and Durability

The Flashbomb wetsuit is one of the most popular options on the market, and for good reason. Not only does it come from a reputable brand with over 50 years of experience, but it's also made with high-quality materials. If you're someone who runs cold, it's definitely worth investing in a wetsuit that will keep you comfortable in the water. The starting price of $450 may seem high, but when you compare it to other premium wetsuits on the market, it's actually quite reasonable.

Staff Feedback

“The Flash bomb 5/4 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit is easily the warmest suit I've ever owned. The lining that runs throughout the suit is unlike any other, and it is not only soft and fuzzy but snug and cozy. It also dries extremely fast comparatively, making that second session of the day a much easier call now that your suit is dry.”

- Chad

Customer Feedback

“Best wetsuit I have ever owned. I had a 4/3 suit that was pretty good but lacked the stretch. My new 3/2 is warmer, lighter, and way more elastic. Win/win/win.”

- Adam

“Finally gave in to getting a surf suit for windsurfing after a few friends recommended the Flashbomb- it's so nice and soft and warm- perfect for cool Rhode Island water!!”

- Steph

“Clean line was a great company to work with to get this suit. Great customer service and quick shipping. Love this new Flashbomb!”

- Nick

“Great wetsuit overall. Only weakness I think back of the knees should be more flexible: pretty stiff there. Has kept me warm in 39 degree F water with 20 degree air temp. With this thickness, I like having the chest zip, but I prefer no zip on anything thinner. Have had great luck with Rip Curl, waiting for them to offer a more environmentally friendly option soon, I hope.”

- Ry

Final Thoughts

Over the years, the Rip Curl Flashbomb has become a household name for surfers. Why do cold water surfers continually gravitate towards this suit? Once you experience the top-notch comfort of the fuzzy Flash lining and what that warmth factor feels like, it’s tough to pass on. Once out of the water, the liner dries in less than 30 minutes. That’s incredible! Even when the water temperature drops, you can dawn patrol, do your daily duties, and then sprint out for a second session with a dried-out suit: all on the same day. Understandably, since it’s fully lined, the Flashbomb has room to grow in terms of flexibility and overall weight.

If you’re looking for a more flexible Rip Curl suit, check out the E-Bomb. Or, maybe you’re stoked about the Flashbomb but need to save money: the Dawn Patrol is the suit for you. It’s got some of the premium Flashbomb features at a more affordable price. Check out the review links above.

If you have any questions about Rip Curl suits or need sizing help, feel free to leave a comment, call us at 1-888-546-6176, or email us at support@cleanlinesurf.com. Enjoy the water!

James

James grew up as a snowboarder in the Wasatch Mountain range, with an admiration of the sea. After catching his first wave and soaking up the sea breeze, he gained an eternal love for surfing. Nowadays, he lives to ride sideways and is stoked to share his passions with others while writing blogs and working on the Customer Service team. If you don’t see him at the surf break, he’ll be pumping a bowl or ripping down a mountain.