6 Best Mid-Range Wetsuits for 2025
Finding the perfect surfing wetsuit can be tricky, especially if you're looking for that sweet spot between affordability and performance. Whether you're a weekend warrior, a dedicated surfer on a budget, or upgrading from an entry-level suit, a mid-range wetsuit offers the best balance of warmth, flexibility, and durability without breaking the bank. Wetsuits have come a long way in the last decade. With all the technology trickling down, mid-range suits have seen the most progression in wearability and price. In many cases, mid-range wetsuits have the best value
In this review, we’ll break down the best mid-range wetsuits for 2025, highlighting top brands, key features, and what to look for when choosing the right suit for your surfing conditions. From 5/4 hooded wetsuits for cooler waters to 3/2mm options for summer sessions, we’ve got you covered with the best options to keep you warm and comfortable in the lineup this year.
Naturally, inflation has caused a bump in prices for our favorite products. Our best mid-range wetsuits are now between $300 and $475: slightly better quality over an entry-level option but not entirely pushing the $500+ world of super high-performing rubber and features.
Best Mid-Range Wetsuits Reviewed
Best-selling wetsuit: O'Neill Hyperfreak Wetsuit - $369.95+
Best value wetsuit: Xcel Comp+ Wetsuit - $349.95+
Best fitting wetsuit: Manera Seafarer Wetsuit - $279.00+
Most flexible wetsuit: Rip Curl E-Bomb Wetsuit - $329.95+
Best affordable wetsuit: Vissla Seven Seas Wetsuit - $259.95+
Best performing wetsuit: Xcel Comp X Wetsuit - $399.95+
Industry Insights and Updates
We continually update our reviews to keep the content relevant as the wetsuit industry continues to evolve.
- The O’Neill Hyperfreak once again sits at the top of the chart of best-selling wetsuits for 2024.
- The Comp+ is a brand-new model from Xcel featuring quality materials and design at a competitive price point.
-
Restock on Billabong wetsuits will be hard to come by as ownership of the brand undergoes some major changes.
O’Neill Hyperfreak - $369.95+
“Best-seller”
Pros
- Incredible Flexibility
- Lightweight & Comfortable
- Minimal Seams & Taped Construction
- Good Value for Performance
Cons
- Durability Concerns
- Less Warmth in Cold Conditions
- No Smoothskin for Wind Protection
Our Take: The Hyperfreak is hands down the best value in mid-range wetsuits and gives surfers many of O’Neill’s high-end features in a straight-to-the-point suit. By cutting some of the more technical elements of more expensive models, the Hyperfreak gives you everything you want at an affordable price.
Consistently one of our best-selling wetsuits across different thicknesses, the Hyperfreak is a long-time shop favorite. The most stand-out features of this wetsuit are Techno Butter 3 (TB3) and TB3x neoprene. TB3 is a highly flexible and light neoprene and comes standard on all of O’Neill’s top-of-the-line wetsuits. TB3x is even more flexible and found in the arms of the suit – specifically for increased paddling mobility. If you’ve never owned a wetsuit with Techno Butter before, it’s hard to exaggerate how comfortable and flexible the material feels
Another design feature that sets the Hyperfreak apart is the absence of a smooth skin panel on the chest or the back. Smooth skin is excellent for cutting down wind chill, but the Hyperfreak is still plenty warm without it, and no chest or back panels allow for even more flexibility throughout the wetsuit.
The Hyperfreak is available in 3/2mm+, 4/3mm+, and two hooded options in 4/3mm+ and 5/4mm+. If you’re wondering what the “+” means, it means that when designing the Hyperfreak, O’Neill cut the suit on the thicker side. For example, the 5/4mm+ version, in reality, runs closer to a 5.5/4.5mm than a 5/4mm suit.
You can’t go wrong with the Hyperfreak, especially if flexibility and weight are important to you.
Read our full review here: O’Neill Hyperfreak Wetsuit Review.
Shop By Model
O'Neill Hyperfreak 3/2+ Chest Zip Wetsuit - $369.95
O'Neill Hyperfreak 4/3+ Chest Zip Wetsuit - $389.95
O'Neill Hyperfreak 4/3+ Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $419.95
O'Neill Hyperfreak 5/4+ Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $449.95
Xcel Comp+ - $349.95+
“Best value ”
Pros
- Great Flexibility
- Lightweight Feel
- Great for Paddling
- Quick-Drying
Cons
- Not the Warmest Option
- Durability Concerns
- No Smoothskin Wind Protection
Our Take: The Xcel Comp+ is a high-performance wetsuit designed for surfers who prioritize flexibility and lightweight comfort. Constructed with Channel Flex and UltraStretch neoprene, this suit offers solid elasticity, allowing for unrestricted movement in the water. The Thermo Lite Infrared lining in key areas, such as the chest and back, helps retain body heat while also promoting faster drying between sessions.
One of the standout features of the Comp+ is its minimal seam design, which reduces restriction and enhances the wetsuit’s overall comfort. Unlike bulkier cold-water wetsuits, the Comp+ is engineered for lightweight performance, making paddling and maneuverability effortless. However, it does sacrifice some warmth, as it lacks a smooth skin wind-blocking chest panel and heavier thermal lining found in more insulated models. The no-smooth skin design means it may not provide as much protection against wind chill, which can be a downside for surfers in colder, windier conditions.
The Comp+ is only available in a chest-zip entry, which provides a secure fit while maintaining flexibility in the shoulders. While this wetsuit excels in flexibility and comfort, its lightweight materials may wear out faster than more reinforced options, making it better suited for surfers who prioritize performance over long-term durability. For those looking for a super-stretchy, competition-ready wetsuit, the Xcel Comp+ is an excellent choice.
Available in 3/2, 4/3, and 5/4 thicknesses, the Comp+ is best suited for moderate to cold water temperatures where warmth is important, but maximum flexibility is still the priority.
Read our full review here: Xcel Comp+ Wetsuit Review.
Shop By Model
Xcel Comp+ 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $349.95
Xcel Comp+ 3 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $389.95
Xcel Comp+ 4/3 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $369.95
Xcel Comp+ 4/3 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $399.95
Xcel Comp+ 5/4 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $419.95
Manera Seafarer - $279.00
“Best fitting”
Pros
- Affordable for a premium brand
- Durable & Well-Constructed
- Good Flexibility
- Thermal Lining in Key Areas
Cons
- Not as Warm as Magma or Other High-End Suits
-
No Hooded Option
- No Key Stash
Our Take: The Manera Seafarer is a well-balanced wetsuit designed for surfers who want a combination of warmth, durability, and flexibility without breaking the bank. Made with 100% stretch limestone neoprene, the Seafarer offers a comfortable fit and a good amount of flexibility, though it’s not as ultra-stretchy as Manera’s higher-end models. The suit features X10D fleece lining in the chest and back panels, which helps retain body heat while keeping the wetsuit lightweight.
One of the Seafarer's defining features is its durability-focused construction, with GBS (Glued and Blindstitched) seams that help minimize water entry while maintaining flexibility. The X10D fleece lining is not as thick as the thermal linings found in Manera’s Magma series, but it adds a noticeable boost in warmth where it’s needed most.
The lack of taped seams in certain areas means it may not be as watertight as premium wetsuits, but for its price, it performs exceptionally well in a variety of conditions. While it may not have the absolute best stretch or warmth in Manera’s lineup, the Seafarer is a solid choice for surfers looking for a durable, comfortable wetsuit that balances performance and affordability.
The Seafarer is available in both back zip and chest zip entry options. The chest zip provides a more secure and flexible fit, while the back zip offers easier entry and exit. Available in 3/2mm, 4/3mm, 5/4/3mm, and 6/4/3mm thicknesses, the Seafarer is versatile enough for a range of water temperatures, from cool to cold conditions
Shop By Model
Manera Seafarer 3/2 Back Zip Wetsuit - $279.00
Manera Seafarer 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $279.00
Manera Seafarer 4/3 Back Zip Wetsuit - $289.00
Manera Seafarer 4/3 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $289.00
Manera Seafarer 5/3 Back Zip Wetsuit - $299.00
Manera Seafarer 5/4/3 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $379.00
Rip Curl E-Bomb - $329.95+
“Most flexible”
Pros
- Maximum Flexibility
- Ultra-Lightweight Feel
- Minimal Seam Design
- No-Zip Entry for Maximum Stretch
Cons
- Less Warmth Than Other Rip Curl Models
-
Durability Concerns
- Zip Free Tricky Entry & Exit
- No Smoothskin Wind Protection
Our Take: The Rip Curl E-Bomb is a high-performance wetsuit designed for surfers who prioritize maximum flexibility and unrestricted movement in the water. Constructed with E7 and E6 neoprene, this suit offers incredible stretch and comfort, making it one of the most flexible wetsuits in Rip Curl’s lineup. The E6 Thermo Lining in key areas, such as the chest and back, provides lightweight insulation while maintaining the suit’s ultra-stretchy feel.
A standout feature of the E-Bomb is its minimal seam design, which enhances flexibility by reducing resistance in key movement areas. The fully sealed GBS (Glued and Blindstitched) seams combined with internal taping help keep water out while maintaining durability. Unlike some of Rip Curl’s warmer models, such as the Flashbomb, the E-Bomb does not include Flash Lining, making it slightly less insulating but significantly lighter and more performance-focused. This tradeoff makes it an excellent choice for surfers who prioritize flexibility and paddling efficiency over extreme warmth.
The E-Bomb comes in a back zip, chest zip, zip-free entry system. Zip free eliminates the bulk of a zipper and maximizes stretch across the shoulders. While this entry system improves comfort and flexibility, some surfers may find it slightly trickier to get in and out of compared to a chest-zip option.
Available in 3/2, 4/3, and 5/4 thicknesses, the E-Bomb is best suited for surfers who need a warm yet highly mobile wetsuit for cool to moderate water temperatures. Overall, the Rip Curl E-Bomb is an ideal wetsuit for high-performance surfers looking for one of the most flexible suits on the market.
Read our full review here: Rip Curl E-Bomb Wetsuit Review.
Shop By Model
Rip Curl E-Bomb 3/2 Zip Free Wetsuit - $329.95
Rip Curl E-Bomb 3/2 Back Zip Wetsuit - $349.95
Rip Curl E-Bomb 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $349.95
Rip Curl E-Bomb 4/3 Zip Free Wetsuit - $349.95
Rip Curl E-Bomb 4/3 Back Zip Wetsuit - $369.95
Rip Curl E-Bomb 4/3 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $369.95
Rip Curl E-Bomb 4/3 Hooded Zip Free Wetsuit - $369.95
Rip Curl E-Bomb 5/4 Hooded Zip Free Wetsuit - $389.95
Vissla Seven Seas - $259.95+
“Best affordable"
Pros
- Good Warmth for the Price
- Durable & Well-Constructed
-
Taped & Sealed Seams
- Minimalist, No-Frills Design
Cons
- Not the Most Flexible Wetsuit
- Limited Wind Protection
- Fit Can Be Snug for Some
Our Take: With the slogan “Everything you need in a wetsuit and nothing you don’t,” Vissla crafted the Seven Seas line to deliver warmth, flexibility, and durability without unnecessary frills. Available in a range of styles—from a 3/2mm back zip for milder waters to a burly 6/5mm hooded suit for frigid conditions—this wetsuit caters to surfers looking for reliable performance. The Seven Seas offers a clean, minimalist design with subtle branding, letting its premium limestone-based Super Stretch neoprene do the talking. To the touch, the material is buttery smooth with just the right balance of stretch and structure, making for a comfortable yet long-lasting fit.
What sets the Seven Seas apart is its strategic use of internal liners, designed to enhance warmth while keeping weight to a minimum. Across all thicknesses, the suit features Fever Fiber lining in the chest and back, a lightweight yet effective insulation layer with a soft cream and maroon finish that feels great against the skin. The 5mm and 6mm models take things a step further with an Eco Fiber lining in the waist and legs, improving heat retention where it’s needed most. While it doesn’t have the ultra-premium linings found in top-tier wetsuits, the Seven Seas still delivers excellent warmth for its price range, making it a solid option for surfers who need insulation without sacrificing flexibility.
Built for durability and all-day comfort, the suit features GBS (Glued and Blindstitched) seams with Super Stretch Neo 3.0 tape, reinforcing key areas while maintaining a natural feel. The chest zip entry, while slightly snug, ensures a secure fit with minimal flushing, keeping cold water out even in challenging conditions. Though it may not have the extreme stretch of high-end performance wetsuits, the Seven Seas is a dependable, well-rounded option for surfers looking for an affordable wetsuit that balances warmth, durability, and flexibility. If you want a no-nonsense suit that delivers where it counts, the Seven Seas is a standout choice in the mid-range wetsuit market.
Read our full review here: Vissla Seven Seas Wetsuit Review.
Shop By Model
Vissla Seven Seas 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $259.95
Vissla Seven Seas 4/3 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $279.95
Vissla Seven Seas 4/3 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $329.95
Vissla Seven Seas 5/4/3 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $349.95
Vissla Seven Seas 6/5 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $369.95
Xcel Comp X Wetsuit - $399.95+
“Best performing"
Pros
-
Ultra-Flexible Japanese Limestone Neoprene
- Superior Warmth with TDC Lining
-
Seamless Design for Comfort
- Eco-Friendly Materials
Cons
-
Higher Price Tag
-
Snug Fit
-
No Smoothskin Panels for Wind Protection
Our Take: The Xcel Comp X is a high-performance wetsuit built for surfers who prioritize flexibility, warmth, and sustainability. Constructed with Channel Flex Japanese limestone-based neoprene, the Comp X delivers unparalleled stretch, allowing for maximum mobility in the water. The material is lightweight, soft, and eco-friendly, making it a top choice for surfers who want both performance and sustainability in a wetsuit.
Warmth is another standout feature of the Comp X, thanks to Xcel’s Thermo Dry Celliant (TDC) lining. This advanced insulation technology is found in the chest and back panels, where it works to trap and retain body heat, keeping you warmer for longer sessions. Additionally, FusionX seam tape reinforces the suit, providing a smooth, watertight feel that enhances comfort and durability. Drylock wrist seals further prevent water entry, helping maintain warmth even in rough conditions. However, unlike some other cold-water wetsuits, the Comp X does not include Smoothskin panels for wind resistance, which may be a consideration for surfers in particularly gusty conditions.
Available in 3/2, 4/3, and 5/4 thicknesses, this suit is ideal for cool to cold water conditions. It offers a balance of insulation and unrestricted movement.
As more of a premium wetsuit, the Xcel Comp X comes at a higher price point, but for those who can swing it, the performance and comfort make it well worth the investment. The unmatched flexibility, lightweight feel, and thoughtful, eco-friendly design set it apart from many competitors. While the ultra-stretch neoprene may not be the most durable for heavy wear, the overall quality, warmth, and seamless comfort make this suit an excellent choice for serious surfers looking to push their limits. If you're after a top-tier wetsuit that delivers on warmth, performance, and sustainability, the Comp X is a standout option that won’t disappoint.
Read our full review here: Xcel Comp X Wetsuit Review.
Shop By Model
Xcel Comp X 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $399.95
Xcel Comp X 4/3 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $419.95
Xcel Comp X 4.5/3.5 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $449.95
Xcel Comp X 5.5/4.5 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $469.95
Honorable Mentions
Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Wetsuit: The Rip Curl Dawn Patrol has long been a shop favorite, offering high-end features typically found in premium models like the Flashbomb and Heatseeker. With full E5 neoprene for improved flexibility and a partial E5 Flash Lining that provides warmth and quick drying, this suit stands out in the competitive mid-range market. Its E4 Thermoflex mesh skin panel further enhances warmth by absorbing solar heat and blocking wind, making it a top choice for surfers prioritizing comfort and performance.
Billabong Absolute Natural Upcycler Wetsuit: The Billabong Absolute Natural Upcycler redefines sustainability by using natural, recycled, and upcycled materials without compromising performance. Featuring Natural Rubber for flexibility and warmth alongside graphene-infused lining for efficient heat retention, this wetsuit is designed for eco-conscious surfers who demand comfort and durability. With minimal solvent use and water-based adhesives, the Absolute Natural Upcycler proves that high-performance wetsuits can be both environmentally friendly and built for serious sessions in the water.
Best Mid-Range Wetsuits Comparison Table
| Wetsuit | Price Point | Seam Construction | Neoprene | Internal Liner | Key Stash/Pocket |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| O’Neill Hyperfreak | $369.95-$449.95 | GBS / Fully Taped | Technobutter3 | Jersey | Yes - pocket on leg |
| Xcel Comp+ | $349.95-$419.95 | GBS / Fully Taped | Nanoprene | Thermo Dry Infrared | Yes - stash inside chest entry |
| Manera Seafarer | $279.00-$279.00 | GBS / Fully Taped | S-Foam | X10D+ Fleece & X10D Jersey | No |
| Rip Curl E-Bomb | $349.95-$389.95 | GBS / Fully Taped | E7 | E7 & E6 Thermo | Yes - inside chest entry or leg, depending on the entry style |
| Xcel Comp X | $399.95-$469.95 | GBS / Fully Taped | Nanprene | Thermo Dry Cellaiant & Thermo Dry Infrared | Yes - stash inside chest entry |
| Rip Curl Dawn Patrol | $259.95-$319.95 | GBS / Partially Taped | E5 | E5 Flash & E4 Thermo | Yes - pocket on leg |
| Billabong Absolute Natural Upcycler | $239.95-$279.95 | GBS / Fully Taped | Natural Rubber - Neoprene-free | Graphene Recycler + & Silicone Stretch | Yes - stash inside chest entry |
Relevant Blogs We’ve Written
Final Thoughts
There’s no need to break the bank with the numerous options in the competitive mid-range wetsuit market. If you’re looking to upgrade your entry-level wetsuit or simply get started in a suit under $475, there are plenty of options. It’s worth the extra minute of research to feel good about your purchase.
Although the Hyperfreak often receives all the hype, don’t count out the other mid-range options. The Xcel Comp X runs warm, while the Seafarer and E-Bomb are available in a wide variety of thicknesses. Looking for that model that’s withstood the test of time? The Dawn Patrol is the choice for you. Or, surf with confidence in the all-new Xcel Comp+.
If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below, call us at 1-888-546-6176, or drop an email at support@cleanlinesurf.com. We are stoked to talk about what options are available to you.
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