Manera Magma Steamer Wetsuit Review

The Manera Magma Steamer Wetsuit is an elite offering designed for women and men who demand the best in warmth and performance. Manera, a family-owned business based in France, is long known for producing top-quality surf gear. Formerly known as the Magma Meteor, the newly upgraded Magma Steamer offers an upgraded internal liner and an updated hood design. With cutting-edge materials and construction, the Magma ensures durability and longevity without compromising flexibility. 

We got our hands on the Women’s 5/4/3 Magma and took it through the ropes for thorough testing, scrutinizing everything from the fit of the hood to the 3D design. Read on for our complete review of the Magma Steamer suit: we’ll break down why this high-end suit is worth every penny.

“The Manera Magma Steamer is at the cutting edge of wetsuit technology, using innovative features to provide the warmest, most durable suit on the market. Between the fuzzy, quick-drying fleece, the flexible air neoprene, and the minimized environmental impact, you’ll be wondering why you didn't invest in a Manera Magma sooner.”

Manera Magma Steamer Wetsuit

Neoprene and Liners

Manera created the Triplex Magma neoprene to maximize warmth and flexibility because everyone knows three is a party. First, the outermost material is called re-flex skin, which is designed for protection from the elements. The high-tech, flexible, and warm air-foam neoprene is squeezed perfectly in the middle of this rubber sandwich. 

The Magma Steamer's neoprene is derived from limestone rather than petrochemicals, meaning less impact on the local environment and reduced dependence on oil and byproduct chemicals. Manera also maximizes its resources by recycling and reusing neoprene waste materials into its finished product. 

The X10D liner, made from recycled nylon, in the Manera Magma Steamer, is designed for maximum flexibility, comfort, and quick drying. It’s an ultralight, soft, and stretchy material used in high-mobility areas like the arms, shoulders, and lower legs to enhance paddling efficiency and make the suit easier to put on and take off. While it’s not as warm as the Magma+ fleece lining, which is used in the core and upper legs for insulation, it keeps the suit lightweight and breathable without compromising too much warmth. 

Last but not least is the Magma+ liner. The cream-striped fleece liner is made from thermal materials and has a reduced low density. This equates to a lightweight feel and faster drying time overall. It’s incredibly cozy and warm; it feels like a blanket hugging your body, and who doesn’t need more of that?

Seams and Stitching 

As one would expect with a high-end suit, the seams and stitching are created using some pretty high-tech product designs. The neoprene panels are glued together and blind-stitched (GBS), meaning the needle doesn’t fully puncture the neoprene. 

Next, the SD2 tape is welded to the seams using an air heater machine. This unique process provides more water-tight seams, durability, and flexibility compared to other competitors. Part of what makes Manera’s suits so durable is the quality seam work since that is typically the first area to fail on a well-used suit.

Fit and Cut

What sets Manera apart is its innovative design process for each wetsuit model. Instead of following traditional methods, Manera takes a unique approach, using computer-aided 3D modeling to create perfectly fitted wetsuits. Once refined to perfection, the design is then converted into a 2D pattern, allowing the factory team to bring it to life with precision.

Manera’s sizing for women is slightly different from other brands. Instead of using the standard numerical sizing, they use XS-XL sizing. Our female wetsuit tester is 5’10 and 135 lbs and fits well in a size medium. According to the unique size chart, she’s at the bottom of the weight range but on the higher end of the height range for the medium. The sizing for men is typical of the standard size chart. Our male wetsuit tester, who is 6'1 "and 205 lbs, fits well into the size XL. 

When putting on the suit for the first time, it can feel incredibly tight. However, with time and use, it gets easier and fits better. With that said, keep in mind the Magma Steamer tends to run a smidge on the smaller side. Because Manera’s size chart isn’t like standard US size charts, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Cleanline team with any sizing questions.

Entry and Zipper

The biggest update on the 24/25 Magma Steamer is the hood upgrade. The previous 2023 model had an uncomfortably snug hood that was difficult to work with - and was a major turn-off for prospective buyers. However, Manera took that feedback to heart, and we can attest that the new model is a night-and-day improvement. 

The attached, pre-fed zipper is a major perk that makes a noticeable difference in ease of use. Unlike some wetsuits where you have to manually thread the zipper pull through the track every time - which can be especially frustrating with cold hands or in a rush - this design comes ready to go. You simply grab the pull and zip up without any hassle. Not only does this save time and effort, but it also reduces wear and tear on the zipper system over time. Like the rest of the suit, the zipper feels very durable and well-integrated, giving you confidence that it will hold up to repeated use in harsh conditions.

Performance

According to Manera, the Magma Steamer is rated at 95% flexibility, 90% warmth, and 100% comfort. Compared to other brands, Manera's flexibility is more middle of the road, while the warmth factor is unmatched. I recommend the Magma to surfers who don’t care too much about the price tag but are seeking the warmest, most durable suit on the market.

Every potential water entry area is sealed tight, even during duck dives and wipeouts. The Manera water strainer panel uses leaky and perforated neoprene, creating a drainage system on your legs to keep your whole body happy. If any water has seeped in after a severe thrashing, the strategically placed drainage holes prevent any sort of ballooning effect. 

The wrist and ankle cuffs are well-designed to keep flushing minimized, and the suit even comes with an additional ankle strap for the surfers with no cankles. The new and improved hood is easy to work with, and it does a darn good job of allowing little to no water in, which leads to a warmer, more enjoyable time in the water.

The 6/5mm Magma Steamer is ideal for extremely cold waters, typically between 38-43°F, offering maximum warmth and protection when facing the harshest conditions. For those braving the cold waters between 43-52°F, the 5/4 Magma Steamer is your trusted companion. In slightly warmer conditions, ranging from 52-58°F, the 4/3 is the perfect fit. And for those few who run naturally warm, the 4/3 Magma still offers plenty of insulation, making it a viable option even in chillier temperatures.

Value and Durability

Manera says it best on its website: " The best way to be eco-friendly is to create durable products.” Although the $559-$699 price tag might cause sticker shock for some, with the premium features of the Magma Steamer, prepare to enter into a long-term relationship. The overall quality and thoughtfulness put into this suit are apparent from the get-go, and you won’t have to be searching for a new suit by next season like you do with some of the competitor brands. 

Lastly, Manera offers a generous two-year warranty on their wetsuits. This warranty typically covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship, such as issues with seams, zippers, or neoprene failure under normal use.

Customer Feedback

I have a Magma 5/4/3 hooded wetsuit, and the 5mm magma boots. Compared to a high end hooded Patagonia wetsuit a friend of mine let me try, the Manera Magma 5/4/3 is much easier to put on, and more importantly, take off when you’re spent from a day in the water.

I never feel constricted in this wetsuit, and I’m very careful not to pull on seams when donning or doffing the suit. Also, I don’t let it dry in the sun (all per the instructions)

After a little over a year, surfing about once a week, I see a stitch popping here and there but no leaks."

Mark

Fantastic wetsuit. Fits like a glove, but very flexible despite its thickness. Kept my body very warm in chilly conditions."

Kristen

Sarah

Originally from the rolling hills of New Hampshire, Sarah now calls Oregon home. She started at Cleanline Surf in 2019 and, since then, has grown into the role of the Customer Service and Blog Manager. When she’s not at work helping dial in customers with surf gear, Sarah is happiest out adventuring. From mellow summer surf sessions to winter splitboard missions to ripping down her favorite mountain bike line, Sarah is always ready to go at the drop of a hat.