As summer approaches, the waves of Aotearoa beckon. For surfers, having the right wetsuit can make all the difference in performance and comfort. At Blitz Surf Shop, we stock a premium range of summer surfing wetsuits, including the industry-leading O’Neill Hyperfreak range. Here’s a breakdown of the different wetsuit cuts we offer, their pros and cons, and why the Hyperfreak range is a standout choice.
1. Wetsuit Cuts: Which One is Right for You?
You don't need to splash out top dollar to be surfing in the summer. The weather is better, the water is warmer and you don't necessarily need all the bells and whistles (although those are always available too). You generally need less rubber at most places.
Check out below for a breakdown of the main styles/cuts of summer wetsuits and their pros and cons to help you decide what bests suits your needs
Spring Suit
A spring suit has short arms and legs. Back zip, chest zip or zip free
- Features: Short arms and short legs; typically 2mm thickness.
- Pros: Lightweight and flexible; ideal for warm summer water.
- Cons: Limited coverage; may feel chilly in cooler winds.
- Best For: Casual summer surfing and warm, sunny days. Choose sealed seams for some extra warmth, flatlocked seams for lower cost
Long Sleeve Spring Suit
- Features: Long sleeves with short legs; usually 2mm thickness.
- Pros: Added arm coverage for sun protection and warmth; retains flexibility. Warmer than a springsuit
- Cons: Legs may feel exposed in cooler conditions like a spring suit.
- Best For: Surfers seeking a balance of flexibility and sun protection.
Short Sleeve Steamer
- Features: Short sleeves with full-length legs; typically 2/2mm thickness.
- Pros: Keeps your legs warm while maintaining freedom for your upper body.
- Cons: Arms can feel cool during dawn or evening sessions and not as much sun protection as long sleeves.
- Best For: Transition seasons or breezy summer days.
3/2mm Full Steamer
- Features: Full-length arms and legs; 3mm neoprene in the torso and 2mm in the arms and legs.
- Pros: Maximum warmth without being too bulky; great for variable summer conditions.
- Cons: Slightly less flexibility compared to thinner suits.
- Best For: Surfers wanting extended coverage and comfort for early morning or late evening sessions.
- Choose sealed wetsuits for more warmth or flatlocked wetsuits for lower cost. If you want a really warm 3/2 choose one with thermal lining like a Rip Curl Flashbomb or O'Neill Hyperfreak Fire. Plenty of mid-priced suits have a good combniation of warmth and flexibility like the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol or O'Neill Defender (womens Bahia) ranges.
Short John or Tube Suit
This is a sleeveless version of s spring suit. Personal choice on this one, not as popular as a spring suit but some people love them. Lots of arm freedom with more wamrth than boardshorts and some protection from sun and hard objects.
Wetsuit Vest
- Features: Sleeveless, short sleeved or long sleeved covers the torso; typically 1-2mm thickness.
- Pros: Ultimate freedom of movement; easy to pack for trips. Freedon of wearing boardshorts or a bikini with a bit of extra warmth and sun protection
- Cons: Minimal coverage; not suitable for windy or cooler conditions.
- Best For: Ultra-warm summer days or as a layer under a wetsuit for extra core warmth.
2. Why Choose the O’Neill Hyperfreak Range?
The O’Neill Hyperfreak range, available now at Blitz Surf Shop, and our most popular range of wetsuits from vests to 4/3mm steamers, sets a new standard for summer wetsuits. Here’s why:
- Unparalleled Flexibility: Made with O’Neill’s exclusive Technobutter 3 neoprene, the Hyperfreak is incredibly lightweight and flexible, allowing for maximum mobility while paddling and surfing.
- Superior Comfort: The seamless paddle zones and minimal seams reduce chafing and improve overall comfort during long surf sessions.
- Quick-Drying: Technobutter 3 technology ensures the suit dries faster than traditional wetsuits, keeping you ready for multiple sessions a day.
- Variety of Options: From short sleeve spring suits to 3/2mm full steamers, the Hyperfreak range offers something for every summer surfer.
3. Benefits of Choosing the Right Wetsuit
Selecting the perfect wetsuit for summer surfing isn’t just about comfort—it can enhance your performance and enjoyment. The right wetsuit:
- Keeps you warm without overheating.
- Protects you from UV rays and minor scrapes.
- Offers flexibility for optimal paddling and movement.
4. Explore Our Collection
At Blitz Surf Shop, we stock a wide range of summer wetsuits to suit every surfer’s needs. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll find:
- O’Neill Hyperfreak Spring Suit: Lightweight and flexible for those scorching summer days.
- O’Neill Hyperfreak 3/2mm Full Steamer: Stay warm during early morning or breezy sessions.
- Wetsuit Vests: A minimalist option for peak summer warmth.
5. Why Shop at Blitz Surf Shop?
- Top Brands: We stock the best, including O’Neill, Rip Curl, Billabong, and more.
- Expert Advice: Our team can help you find the perfect wetsuit based on your surfing style and local conditions.
- Convenience: Shop online at www.blitzsurf.co.nz and enjoy fast delivery anywhere in New Zealand.
Conclusion
Summer surfing in New Zealand calls for the perfect wetsuit. Whether you prefer the high-performance O’Neill Hyperfreak range or a classic spring suit, Blitz Surf Shop has you covered. Check out our collection today and gear up for a summer full of waves and adventure!
Shop now at www.blitzsurf.co.nz and stay stoked this summer.
