Best Affordable 3/2 Wetsuits of 2024

In the world of surfing, having the right gear is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Finding the perfect balance between quality and affordability can be a challenge when it comes to wetsuits. However, for 2024, some reputable options are available for those seeking a 3/2 wetsuit within the $145-$280 price range. Generally, a 3/2 thick suit is recommended for water temperatures ranging from 60-65 degrees F. The featured suits offer a combination of durability, flexibility, and insulation to keep you warm and protected in the water while still being budget-friendly.

Whether you're a seasoned surfer or enjoy swimming in cooler temperatures, we've compiled a list of the best affordable 3/2 wetsuits of 2024 to help you make an informed decision and maximize your surf sessions without emptying your wallet.

Wetsuits Reviewed

• O’Neill - Reactor II 3/2 Back Zip Wetsuit - $144.95
• Rip Curl - Dawn Patrol 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $249.95
• Vissla - Seven Seas 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $259.95
• Quiksilver - Everyday Sessions 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $269.95
• Billabong - Absolute Natural 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $259.95
• O’Neill - Epic 3/2 Back Zip Wetsuit - $219.95
• Manera - Seafarer 3/2 Chest Zip and Back Zip - $279.00

O’Neill Reactor II - $144.95

Among the wide range of suits available, the O'Neill Reactor II 3/2 stands out in the entry-level wetsuit market. Known for its simplicity and durability, it caters to both beginners and seasoned water enthusiasts in its vast array of sizes.

The Reactor II features an ergonomic design that prioritizes both comfort and maneuverability. The UltraFlex neoprene is built for durability, while the flatlock seams keep the price tag affordable. The suit's smooth skin chest and back panels minimize wind chill, further enhancing its thermal properties. Smooth skin makes a substantial difference in keeping you warm from the wind. It also gives you extra padding and grip on your chest when paddling out to the lineup.

Highlights and Features

• UltraFlex Neoprene
• Wind-resistant smooth skin
• Aqua Alpha Eco-friendly Glue
• Flat Lock SeamsWide range of sizes

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Rip Curl Dawn Patrol - $249.95

The Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 3/2 wetsuit is designed for the surfer wanting high-quality features at a reasonable price. It offers a balance of flexibility, warmth, and durability. The Dawn Patrol is often the go-to choice for new surfers because of the attractive price point. The fit runs on the slimmer side, but it works for most body types due to the wide range of sizes offered. Rip Curl wetsuits are a little lengthier than most brands, so if you’re slim and lengthy, this could be one of your best options.

The Dawn Patrol is considered an entry-level suit; however, you can surf just as well in the Dawn Patrol as someone else wearing a premium suit. Constructed with E5 neoprene and a partial Flash Lining interior that’s also found in Rip Curl’s high-end offerings, the suit boasts warmth and allows an unrestricted feeling while paddling. Check out the Dawn Patrol if you’re looking for a long time trusted suit at an affordable price tag. We also stock the Back Zip model as well.

Highlights and Features

• Lightweight E5 Neoprene
• E5 Flash Lining
• Hand-Taped Stress Points
• Glued and Blind Stitched Seams
• Popular pick
• Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Wetsuit Review

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Vissla Seven Seas - $259.95

Although comparatively new to the surf industry, Vissla strives to create quality products that satisfy surfers of every ability level. The Vissla Seven Seas 3/2 is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable and flexible wetsuit produced with eco-friendly materials. The Seven Seas is well worth the price with quality Super Stretch neoprene, fast-drying Fever Fiber lining, and internally taped seams.

Vissla’s wetsuit factories received the Bluesign system partner certification. This certification means Vissla complies with the global textile industry's most demanding energy, water resource, and waste disposal standards. This sustainable process includes upcycled materials, AquaA water-based glue, Limestone-based neoprene, and dope-dyed yarn. If you’re interested in this wetsuit, make sure to check out Derrick Disney in Vissla’s surf film Pedros Bay!

Highlights and Features

• Quick drying liner
• Internally Taped Seams
• Dope Dyed Fabric
• Tailored Fit
• Vissla Seven Seas Wetsuit Review

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Quiksilver Everyday Sessions - $269.95

Get the most out of your surf adventures with the 2024 Quiksilver 3/2 Everyday Session. If you’re looking for a wetsuit built with thoughtful features at an affordable price, this popular 3/2 wetsuit is worth a look. Its flexibility, thermal insulation, and durability offer a balance of performance and comfort. Whether you’re surfing or bodyboarding, the Everyday Sessions will help you enjoy your favorite activities to the fullest.

The eco-friendly StretchFlight neoprene offers flexibility where you need it most: in the shoulders for ease of paddling. The red WarmFlight thermo fleece liner offers comfort and adds warmth to the suit. Using sustainable materials such as AquaA water-based glues, and the WarmFlight Eco lining you can go home knowing that you did your part in keeping our oceans clean. The Everyday Sessions is also available in a Back Zip model as well!

Highlights and Features

• Sustainable Material
• WarmFlight Eco Lining
• Triple GBS Seams
• Critical taped Seams
• Quiksilver Everyday Sessions Wetsuit Review

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Billabong Absolute Natural - $259.95

The Billabong Absolute Natural is new for 2024. The Billabong wetsuit lineup just dropped this fall and includes the newest and latest tech. The Absolute has been a top seller at Cleanline in the 5/4 affordable wetsuit category. In fact, this has been such a trusty suit that Cleanline’s owner decided to use it for the entire rental fleet (excluding youth suits). Billabong wetsuits fit various body types but cater to short and stocky individuals based on their neoprene cut.

The Absolute Natural is one of the eco-friendliest wetsuits on the market, labeled as “This Is Our Forest,” using 100% neoprene-free material, including recycled carbon black, soybean oil, and 85% natural rubber, exclusive to Billabong. It is made with upcycled pro stretch, which is incredibly flexible. The Super Flex Neo tape is machine-applied and is exceptionally warm and durable without a lack of stretch. Don’t forget that, on top of all of these features, Billabong still includes the award-winning graphene liner.

Highlights and Features

• Sustainable Natural Rubber
• Durable Seams
• Warm Graphene Liner
• Flexible Super Flex Neo Tape

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O’Neill Epic - $219.95

O’Neill was spot on when naming the Epic wetsuit. It tops our list as one of the best budget surfing wetsuits. Over the years, it has become a best-seller, and our customer satisfaction ratings reflect that. Unsurprisingly, it continues to have great success with quality features and the reputation that comes with the O’Neill brand.

The O’Neill Epic 3/2 suit is the epitome of the saying “best bang for your buck.” With durable UltraFlex neoprene and an internal Firewall lining, the Epic has everything you need for a comfortable and long-lasting suit. You’ll also notice smooth skin panels on the chest and back. As mentioned previously, these panels act as a wind barrier and make the suit warmer by absorbing the sun’s rays. All in all, the Epic is the recommended option for first-time wetsuit buyers. It’s the perfect segway into the wetsuit world at an unbeatable price.

Highlights and Features

• Smooth Skin Panels
• Durable Neoprene
• Simple Back Zip Entry
• Comfortable Collar
• O’Neill Epic Wetsuit Review

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Manera Seafarer - $279.00

The Manera Seafarer is another great option to consider when purchasing a 3/2 wetsuit. Manera has shocked the surf industry by creating revolutionary wetsuits with a 3D design. With S-foam neoprene made from limestone, the Seafarer is exceptionally flexible and offers strong heat retention. The X10D jersey lining is another feature that makes the wetsuit excel in flexibility.

The Seafarer 3/2 wetsuit is also curated with sustainability in mind. Manera uses recycled neoprene and jersey, as well as recycled carbon black. With these three recycled materials, you can feel confident that you’re limiting carbon emissions. Strategic seam placement improves restriction and durability. Last but not least, the Seafarer has a clean and fashionable look to it.

Highlights and Features

• Triplex Material
• Strategic Seam Placement
• Flexible X10D Jersey
• Aesthetic Fusion Cut

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Final Thoughts

In conclusion, affordable 3/2 wetsuits are a great option for those seeking a balance between performance and budget. While they may not offer the same high-end features as their more expensive counterparts, they still provide adequate protection, flexibility, and thermal insulation. This blog's 2024 3/2 wetsuits are constructed with quality materials and employ innovative design elements to enhance durability and comfort. From the famous Dawn Patrol and Epic to the eco-friendly Seven Seas and Absolute Natural, I hope you’ve got a better understanding of what option will work best for you.

If you have any questions about the featured 3/2 suits or any other products, feel free to contact us at support@cleanlinesurf.com, call us toll-free at 1-888-546-6176, or leave a comment below.

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