Best Women’s Mid-Range Hooded Wetsuits for 2024

Our Take: The high-performance Hyperfreak is the queen of neoprene. This badass ripper doesn’t back down when it comes to pumping overhead swell or icy cold currents flowing down from the north. O’Neill got it right with the ever-popular 4/3 model, and it was a no-brainer also to release a 5/4+ version.

First of all, once you feel the stretch and flex of the Technobutter 3 neoprene, you’ll never turn back. Say adios to paddling fatigue due to the lightweight Technobutter 3x neoprene used in the shoulders and arms of the suit. The GBS and fully tapped interior seams give the ideal combo of warmth and maneuverability to prolong your sessions.

In conclusion, the + stands for an extra 0.5mm of neoprene, or 5.5/4.5mm. The Hyperfreak fits true-to-size and is the epitome of a 2nd skin feel for the optimal water seal. It doesn’t hurt to be extra careful when handling the Hyperfreak. It tends to be a more delicate suit compared to others, and we notice it wears out quicker than the competition. This suit is so popular that we can barely keep it in stock. Don’t hesitate to contact us for restock availability if your size isn’t listed on our website. 

Read our full review here: O’Neill Women’s Hyperfreak Wetsuit.

Our Take: Originating in Australia, Rip Curl knows something about designing quality hooded wetsuits. The Dawn Patrol has been a shop favorite year after year. From the classic Rip Curl logo to the minimal paneling, the Dawn Patrol packs in the necessary features without breaking the bank.

New for 2024, Rip Curl upgraded the Dawn Patrol’s rubber to a 50/50 blend of the eco-friendly Yulex natural rubber and the standard E-series neoprene, which has been around for years. In addition, the external layer of the suit is made 100% from recycled textiles. Although it's not considered the most flexible suit in this blog, these sustainable upgrades make the Dawn Patrol stand out while maintaining a decent price point.

Another big draw of the Dawn Patrol is the pink interior E5 Flash Lining, which covers the body and upper legs. The lining provides warmth in the cold water and is quick-drying once out of the water. On the inside, E5 tape is applied in high-stress areas for added durability and extra warmth on those bitter cold days.

Furthermore, Rip Curl extends a generous 3-year warranty on all stitching, ensuring that you’re taken care of down the road. We recommend sizing up if you’re in between sizes because the brand tends to run small. Look no further than the new and improved Dawn Patrol for one of the best mid-range 5/4mm wetsuits under $320. 

Read our full review here: Rip Curl Women’s Dawn Patrol Wetsuit.

Customer Feedback

Our Take: A dependable 4/3 hooded wetsuit is hard to find in the women's wetsuit market. However, the recently upgraded Salty Dayz Natural Upcycler is a gem for its high-end features and stylish feminine flair. 

For 2024, Billabong re-launched the Salty Dayz Natural using its proprietary natural rubber—made from a blend of soybean oil, recycled carbon black, and natural rubber ethically sourced from FSC-certified forests. Similar to the Dawn Patrol’s exterior jersey, the Salty Dayz Natural's outer layer is made using 100% recycled textiles. Our first impressions? High-end stretch and comfort that are typically only found in high-end suits. 

Another noteworthy mention is the Graphene Comp internal liner. Graphene conducts and retains heat more efficiently than traditional liners while remaining incredibly strong. Overall, the Salty Dayz Natural Upcycler delivers warmth, quality, and performance at an affordable price. It is also one of the most eco-friendly 4/3 hooded options available.

Our Take: So your old suit is wearing out, and you need something new that has the perfect blend of flexibility, comfort, and warmth—look no further than the Xcel Comp+. This suit is a brand-new model from Xcel, and we’re stoked to add another mid-range suit to our cold water wetsuit inventory. 

Using Xcel’s most lightweight internal liner, Thermo Dry Infrared (TDIR), with its fuzzy yellow appearance, and hydrophobic Nanoprene neoprene, the Comp+ excels in terms of performance. Other notable highlights include the pre-fed zipper (easy on and off), snug wrists and ankles (minimizing flushing), and internally taped seams.

Jump on the Xcel bandwagon and discover why surfers have been flocking to their products for over four decades. Try a Comp+ and discover why professional surfers such as Sage Erickson also gravitate towards this particular suit.

Read our full review here: Xcel Comp+ Wetsuit.

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