Photo: Christinamae Sheley.
Nothing puts a damper on an epic surf session more than being cold. If you’re anything like me, being cold means it’s game over. Once the shivers start, it’s time for me to paddle in, regardless of how good the waves are. Although summertime delivers plenty of waves and warm weather, if it’s a dawn patrol session or the wind is up, I tend to get chilly. Wetsuit jackets are easy to throw on, making them the perfect way to combat the cold. After some testing, we’ve rounded up five of our favorite wetsuit jackets for women.
For more gear guides written specifically for women who shred, check out our guide to the best women’s wetsuits, the best women’s springsuits, the best women’s surf suits and rashguards, the best stay-put women’s swimsuits for surfing, and the best surf leggings for women.
What Are the Best Women’s Wetsuit Jackets?
Kassia + Surf La Luna 2 MM Jacket ($158)
Patagonia R1 Lite Yulex Long-Sleeve Top ($129)
O’Neill Bahia Full-Zip Jacket ($100)
Sisstrevolution Summer Seas Long Sleeve Neoprene Jacket ($105)
What Makes a Good Wetsuit Jacket?
Comfort
Comfort is my number one priority for most clothing items and wetsuit jackets are no exception. I want my jacket to be cozy and comfy so I can wear it for marathon sessions and not have to worry about it bunching or causing chaffing.
Style
If I’m going to be wearing it often, I want something that looks good, so I feel confident wearing it for surfing, diving, and everything in between.
Durability
When I buy a wetsuit jacket, I expect it to last a few years and as such, I want one that is well-made so it can withstand the test of time.
Warmth
Wetsuit jackets are a Goldilocks type of situation where I want them to be warm, but not too warm. I’m looking for something that’s just right.
Kassia + Surf La Luna 2 MM Jacket ($158)
Comfort: 4
Style: 4
Durability: 5
Warmth: 4
Overall: 4.25/5
From the mind of longboard legend Kassia Meador, the La Luna jacket is surf tested and approved. At Kassia + Surf, they take the environment into consideration when creating all their products. As a result, the La Luna jacket is made from premium natural limestone + eco-carbon neoprene and is delivered in sustainable packaging. Made from a super stretch material, the jacket is nice and flexible, delivering maximum comfort. Double-bind stitch and glued seams ensure the suit won’t fray prematurely and a stash pocket on the left arm allows you to easily store keys and wax. Sporting a subtle lunar print, the suit is stylish and fun while still pairing well with most bottoms.
Photo: Christinamae Sheley
Patagonia R1 Lite Yulex Long-Sleeve Top ($129)
Comfort: 4
Style: 3
Durability: 5
Warmth: 5
Overall: 4.25/5
At Patagonia, quality and sustainably are the name of the game and the R1 Lite Yulex top is no exception. The neoprene-free jacket is made from 85% Yulex natural rubber that is FSC certified by the Rainforest Alliance and 15% chlorine-free synthetic rubber. Additionally, the jacket is Fair Trade Certified sewn, the water-based glue used for the linings is solvent-free, and the jacket features solution-dyed recycled polyester linings. The jacket sports flatlock seams for maximum comfort and a corrosion-proof zipper that is sure to withstand the test of time. The jacket also includes an internal key-loop, which is much appreciated. Although Patagonia’s wetsuits take a little longer to break in, the jacket is incredibly well-made and warm, so I know it will be in my closet for many trips around the sun.
O’Neill Bahia Full-Zip Jacket ($100)
Comfort: 5
Style: 5
Durability: 4
Warmth: 4
Overall: 4.5/5
I don’t know what O’Neill has done to upgrade their suits, but they hit the nail on the head when it comes to comfort. The jacket features Ultraflex DS material that is super stretchy, allowing for maximum mobility while paddling and shredding, which could explain the comfort. Top that off with flatlock stitched seams and chaffing and irritation are wetsuit woes of the past. Available in three different color options, the jacket is rated to UPF 50+, so not only does it keep you warm, but it keeps you protected from the harsh summer sun as well.
Sisstrevolution Summer Seas Long Sleeve Neoprene Jacket ($105)
Comfort: 4
Style: 2
Durability: 5
Warmth: 5
Overall: 4/5
Whether you prefer simple or bold styles, Sisstrevolution has you covered with their Summer Seas jacket. The jacket is available in solid black as well as a retro floral print, so you can keep it mellow or funky – I’m personally a big fan of the floral. The front zip jacket features flat lock seams and contrast paneling, so it’s super comfortable. At 1 mm thick, it’s not too warm but adds the extra insulation you need for chillier summer days.
NRS Ignitor Jacket ($90)
Comfort: 2
Style: 4
Durability: 4
Warmth: 5
Overall: 3.75/5
Designed with river life in mind, NRS’s Ignitor jacket is equal parts warm and durable. Designed with the environment in mind, the jacket’s nylon interior and exterior are made from dope-dyed recycled materials, the neoprene is made from recycled tires, and everything is sealed with water-based adhesives. The full-zip entry allows for plenty of flexibility when it comes to comfort and warmth and the flat-locks seams ensure nothing rubs while paddling. At 2mm thick, the jacket offers plenty of warmth and can easily be paired with a rashguard for even more insulation. Being on the warmer side, the jacket is a little stiffer than most wetsuit jackets but is also more durable. Jackets tend to run big, so order a size down for the best fit.
Editor’s Note: For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here.
Disclosure: The Inertia may receive a small commission if you make a purchase from the affiliate links included in this feature at no additional cost to you. Our goal is always to entertain, educate, and inspire, and we hope you find this feature useful.
Be sure to visit The Inertia website to view valuable Surfing related News and Resourceful Articles regularly.
Speaking of helpful articles from the good people behind The Inertia, you may want to click on the following link to learn about how BRA Supporting Vendor Partner SurfCare can help you generate additional revenue from Surfboard Sales without increasing inventory: https://boardretailers.org/you-might-not-need-to-worry-about-breaking-a-brand-new-surfboard-ever-again-via-the-inertia/
If you are not yet a BRA Retail Member, you can easily opt in to either Regular (no cost) or Distinguished ($100/yr.) Membership via this super simple join form