Xcel Comp X Wetsuit Review

Established in 1982 by Ed D'Ascoli on the North Shore of Oahu, Xcel began as a small core operation and has grown into a respected leader in the wetsuit industry. Xcel's commitment to innovation and performance has led to the development of some of the best wetsuits and created a loyal following over the course of its 40-year history. They have received multiple awards for their product excellence, including SIMA’s (Surf Industry Manufacturer’s Association) "Wetsuit of the Year" award in 2007, 2008, and 2010, and then in 2020, it won a similar award from STAB Magazine. I wouldn’t be surprised if they added another award with the updated Comp X series.

The Xcel Comp X wetsuit is designed specifically for surfers seeking a combination of high performance and warmth in cold conditions. Crafted with 100% ultra-stretch Japanese limestone neoprene, it offers exceptional flexibility and comfort. I was lucky enough to get my hands on a 5.5/4.5 hooded chest zip model. After a month of consistent winter surfing in the Pacific Northwest, I’ve had the chance to really put the Xcel Comp X suit to the test. Here’s my full review.

Xcel Comp X Wetsuit

Neoprene and Liners

The Xcel Comp X's neoprene and liners set it apart from others in the market. It combines the flexibility of their Comp+ model with additional warmth comparable to the Drylock model. I could tell from the moment I first paddled out while wearing the Comp X that Xcel had tapped into something special.

First off, let's start with the neoprene. The Comp X is made with Nanoprene Lite Japanese Limestone - an environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based neoprene with better-insulating properties that also take on less water. Each suit is woven with dope-dyed yarn to reduce emissions and water pollution, and like most brands, it features water-based adhesives. The Xcel Comp X uses the ultra-flexible Channel Flex on the suit's exterior. This exterior lightweight, hydrophobic gridded material breaks up tension by reducing fiber and water weight, allowing maximum range of motion and easy paddling.

The interior of the suit utilizes Xcel’s exclusive Thermo Dry Infrared (IR) technology in the upper torso and arms. This internal lining is lighter, more flexible, and features a plush infrared fiber that generates heat, maximizing warmth while offering excellent stretch and performance. The main difference between the Comp X compared to the Comp+ is the addition of the Thermo Dry Celliant (TDC) lining in the legs and lower body. TDC is a unique, earth mineral-based fiber woven into a smart textile that enhances blood flow to muscle tissue by converting the body’s natural heat into infrared energy, known as vasodilation. It has a higher heat retention than the IR liner making the Comp X a step above in warmth compared to the Comp+.

Seams and Stitching

The exterior of the Xcel Comp X wetsuit is triple glued and blind stitched. The absence of an exterior welded seam construction allows the suit to be more flexible. 

The interior seams are covered with reinforced Fusion X tape. This advanced seam tape uses a unique fusion bonding process, which effectively seals the seams, preventing water from seeping in and reducing the risk of leaks. The tape also enhances the wetsuit's overall flexibility by maintaining stretch without compromising strength. It’s lightweight yet incredibly durable, providing extra reinforcement at critical stress points to withstand the rigors of even the most demanding surf session.

Fit and Cut

I find that Xcel fits true to size. At 6’1 and 210 lbs, I typically wear an XL with just about every brand, and this is no different with the Comp X. I like how Xcel only used a single front and back panel on the torso, which creates minimal seams and maximum comfort.

The hood cinched down easily without any awkward bunching in the body. Unlike other suits that often feel claustrophobic and stiff at first, the Xcel Comp X felt snug yet comfortable right from the first session. It offered a secure fit without restricting mobility or causing that all-too-common feeling of resistance.

Entry and Zipper

The first thing I noticed when trying on the Xcel Comp X for the first time was how easy it was to get on and off when compared to other hooded chest zip wetsuits. The TDC lining in the legs easily slides onto your skin, and there is little to no resistance. It doesn’t have that “suction” feeling that I’ve experienced in competitor suits.

The non-corrosive pre-fed zipper moves effortlessly while staying securely in place, and the snap closure guarantees this. The small detail of a pre-fed zipper means the zipper is already attached on one side, so you don’t have to line up and “feed” the zipper tab into the track every time you suit up. It makes for a faster entry/exit and is a more durable design in the long run due to less wear and tear due to misalignment. In addition, there’s also a key loop tucked inside the chest panel for anyone still using a traditional car key without a fob.

Performance

The Xcel Comp X's blending of performance and warmth sets it apart from the pack. The combination of the Thermo Dry Infrared (IR) in the upper torso and arms and Thermo Dry Celiant (TDC) in the lower body and legs ensures you get the absolute best of both worlds. Keeping the IR liner in the arms and shoulders allows the suit to paddle as well as Xcel’s performance suit, the Comp+. 

Furthermore, the addition of the TDC in the legs and torso puts the suit closer in warmth to Xcel’s Drylock. Though you sacrifice some flexibility in the areas with TDC lining, the benefits outweigh the negatives as these areas of your body are more static when surfing and don’t require the flexibility that your arms and shoulders do while surfing.

If you’ve read any of my previous wetsuit reviews, you know I usually prefer hooded 4/3mm suits for their lighter weight and added flexibility. Of course, that can make winter surfing in Oregon a chilly endeavor. But this is the first 5/4 I’ve worn in a long time that doesn’t feel restrictive or compromise my paddling power.

Xcel Comp X Suggested Wetsuit Thickness 

Value and Durability

The Xcel Comp X falls into the category of a mid to high-level suit. Its price sits between the Comp+ and Drylock series. However, the suit contains all the features you would expect from any high-end wetsuit. 

The Xcel Comp series of wetsuits is comparable to O’Neill’s Hyperfreak series and Rip Curl’s E-Bomb suits. Taking it a step further, the Comp X with the upgraded Thermo Dry Celiant lining would be the most equivalent to the O’Neill Hyperfreak Fire. That said, in comparison, I find the Comp X to be a more comfortable fit from the start, as my experience with O’Neill is that they take a few sessions to “break in” and have an initial tight “suction” feeling for lack of a better word.

I have worn this suit exclusively for a couple of months, and it shows little to no wear. All seams and stitching are intact, and the fit is still snug as ever. The lack of smooth skin paneling means there is less likelihood of fingernail nicks and tears. Overall, the Comp X surfing wetsuit has great value compared to other suits of similar price points.

Final Thoughts

The Xcel Comp X wetsuit is the perfect blend of warmth and performance for any surfer looking to do their best surfing despite frigid conditions. The Thermo Dry Infrared liner in the arms gives the suit the mobility of a thinner suit, while the Thermo Dry Celiant liner keeps you as warm as some thicker suits. The overall comfort and ease of entry make this suit stand out amongst the competition. Combine all that with the ultra-flexible Channel Flex exterior, and you’re left with a suit that will not only keep you warm in the coldest conditions but will not restrict your mobility. 

The Comp X fits perfectly in between the Xcel Comp+ and the Xcel Drylock series. The Comp X maintains most of the performance attributes from the Comp+ with additional features that move it closer in warmth to the Drylock at a more affordable cost. If you’re ready to take your surfing to the next level in even the most extreme conditions, then the Xcel Comp X is the wetsuit for you.

If you have any questions about the Xcel 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!

Spencer

Spencer is a long-time member of the Cleanline family who started out as grom washing wetsuits behind the original Cleanline on 1st Avenue in Seaside. He has worked most positions in the company from managing our Cannon Beach store to providing knowledgeable customer service for our Ecommerce department. These days he works part-time answering the phones and writing blogs while also selling Real Estate locally on the Oregon Coast. When he's not working he's either surfing, traveling, or hanging out with his dog Wyatt.