Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler Wetsuit Review

Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler Wetsuit Review

Smack the lip and get pitted like never before in the all-new 2024 Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler. With a passion for their work, Billabong has created a full quiver of wetsuits to meet individual needs. Priced at a mid-range option, the Revolution Natural Upcycler sits between the high-end Furnace Natural and entry-level Absolute Natural. With a focus on flexibility and sustainability, the Revolution Natural Upcycler will help you perform at your highest level without adding to the embedded carbon emissions. 

The men’s Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler includes Upcycler Airlight 4D, Natural Rubber, and a Graphene Comp internal liner. These three defining characteristics, combined, make an unmatchable, eco-friendly, high-performing mid-tier wetsuit. Follow along as we review the all-new Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler.


“Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the Revolution Natural Upcycler can be a game changer to your experience in the water. This highly sustainable suit offers unparalleled performance while keeping you comfortable as you take on new challenges out in the open sea.”


Pros

  • Best in flexibility
  • 100% Neoprene-free
  • Warm comp liner
  • Affordable cost

Cons

  • Only available in hood-less models
  • No exterior fluid seamweld
  • No smooth skin paneling

Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler

Surfer floating on his surfboard while wearing the Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler wetsuit.

Neoprene and Liners

The 2024 Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler joins the growing market of reputable 100% neoprene-free wetsuit options. Billabong's new propriety Natural Rubber, is a substitute for traditional neoprene found in most wetsuits. The Natural Rubber is sourced from an ethically managed FSC-certified rubber plantation. It's Billabong's cleanest, lightest, and stretchiest rubber to date. At first glance, the Revolution looks like a classic stylish Billabong wetsuit; however, there is a lot more going on in the new tech for 2024.

Another upgrade for 2024 is the 100% recycled Pro Stretch exterior layer. This particular part of the suit is completely made from post-consumer recycled textiles. Not only is it highly eco-friendly, but it also provides a durable liner while maintaining a flexible feel from top to bottom. 

Graphene Comp, Billabong’s “competition stretch” liner with infused graphene, is one of the warmest and lightest liners offered in the industry. Graphene is a Nobel prize-winning material that has revolutionized the wetsuit industry. With carbon atoms in a honeycomb shape, the material warms itself up through friction and then holds the warmth for an extended amount of time. It was genius of Billabong to implement Graphene into their wetsuit lineup.


Billabong Revolution Graphene Comp interior liner panels.

Seams and Stitching

Billabong not only makes premier wetsuits in terms of warmth and flexibility, but they also exceed in durability. With strategically placed seams and an interior machine-applied taping, the Revolution Natural Upcycler is exceptionally durable and will stay intact season after season. Another additional feature added to the seams of the Revolution Natural Upcycler is the Aqua Alpha non-toxic water-based glue, which, in return, creates a more water-tight seal and stronger build.  


Fit and Cut

The Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler has a similar fit to the original Billabong wetsuit lineup. It is broader in the shoulders and chest, catering well to stockier body builds. The Billabong wetsuit size chart reflects this, you should be able to get the correct size to fit your body type. If you have any questions when selecting a size, don’t hesitate to contact the team here at Cleanline Surf. We specialize in wetsuit sizing and can be of great help. I have a broader chest and shoulders, so Billabong is my go-to when I am shopping for a new wetsuit.


A surfer zipping up his chest zip on the Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler Wetsuit.

Entry and Zipper

The Revolution Natural Upcycler has two different entry systems: a chest zip and a zipper-less (not in stock yet). Both systems work well, but depending on your personal preferences, one entry may outperform the other. The chest zip entry is the most popular system in the wetsuit industry today. Reach for the chest zip when looking for a balance of high performance and ease of entry and exit. The zip-less system caters to individuals who need the highest-performing stretch and warmth but don’t mind putting more effort into getting their wetsuit on and off.


Close up look at the Upcycler logo on the sleeve of the Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler wetsuit.

Performance

The design of the Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler was based on creating a high-performing, eco-friendly wetsuit. If there were one word to describe this suit, it would be “performance.” Billabong markets it as their lightest and most flexible suit to date. Due to its ultimate flexibility and award-winning warmth, the Revolution Natural Upcycler is perfect for shredders looking to perform at their highest level. Whether competing with friends or in a WSL tour championship, it will exceed expectations. 

Each Revolution model is rated for different water temperatures depending on its thickness. The 4/3 is rated for 55-60 F, and the 3/2 is rated for 60-65 F. Although the graphene runs exceptionally warm, I would follow the guide above when choosing a thickness.


Value and Durability

The mid-range price range of $300-320 makes the cost quite reasonable. Some mid-range wetsuits jump into the $400 range. With high-performing stretch as the main focus, I wouldn’t say this wetsuit is as durable as other options, such as the Billabong Furnace Natural. In addition, with no outer glued seams, I don’t see this wetsuit lasting like a high-end one, but the cost reflects that.


Model wearing a Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit.

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    Final Thoughts

    Well, there you have it. The Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler wetsuit review is solely written to inform you of the product, features, and performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the Revolution Natural can be a game changer to your experience in the water. With 100% neoprene-free tech, upcycler pro stretch, and a Graphene liner, this is one of the most environmentally friendly suits ever offered.

    Do you have what it takes to surf the Revolution Natural Upcycler to its full potential? Life isn’t just about winning or losing - it is about challenging yourself, having fun, and expanding your horizons. Invest in the Billabong Revolution Natural Upcycler today and give yourself an extra boost as your next surf adventure awaits.

    Billabong has different wetsuit models to help surfers get into the perfect suit. If you’re looking for a more high-end suit with added warmth, check out the Furnace Natural Upcycler, and if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly suit, check out the Billabong Absolute+ Natural Upcycler.

    If you have any questions about Billabong 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.