Best Surfing Wetsuits for Cold Water Surfing

Cold water surfing isn’t for the faint of heart—but with the right wetsuit, it becomes a powerful, exhilarating experience. Whether you’re paddling out in the Pacific Northwest or carving through winter waves in New England, your wetsuit is your most critical gear. It must insulate, flex with your movement, and keep you comfortable for hours in water that’s often below 55°F (13°C).

To help you gear up, we’ve rounded up the best cold water wetsuits for men—focusing on the excellent Hyperflex lineup available now at SunnySports.

What to Look for in a Cold Water Wetsuit

Before diving into the specific products, here’s a quick breakdown of what makes a wetsuit cold water–ready:

• Thickness: 4/3mm and 5/4mm suits are ideal for water in the 40–60°F (4–15°C) range.

• Seam Sealing: Look for glued and blind-stitched seams or liquid taped seams to prevent flushing (cold water entering the suit).

• Thermal Lining: A fleece or poly-fiber lining inside the suit traps heat while wicking moisture from the skin.

• Fit & Flexibility: Cold water suits can be thicker, but mobility still matters. A flexible neoprene blend ensures paddling comfort.

• Extras: Integrated hoods, reinforced knees, sealed cuffs, and durable zippers all improve performance and durability.

Let’s check out the top men’s wetsuits for cold surf—available now at SunnySports.

1. Hyperflex VYRL 5/4mm Chest Zip Fullsuit – Men’s

Best For: Serious surfers in frigid water (45–55°F)

Why It Stands Out:

The Hyperflex VYRL series brings high-end performance at a price point that won’t empty your wallet. This 5/4mm fullsuit is crafted from AtomicFoam super-stretch neoprene—lightweight, durable, and ultra-flexible for maximum paddling range.

The interior features a plush, quick-drying thermal lining that traps body heat and reduces water absorption. Sealed seams (glued and blind-stitched) block cold water from flushing in. A chest-zip entry keeps the design streamlined while making donning and doffing easy.

Key Features:

• 5mm torso / 4mm limbs neoprene blend

• Chest zip design to reduce flushing

• Quantum Foam Neoprene for unrestricted movement

• Durable Duratex knee pads

• Sealed seams with inner taping

Ideal Conditions: Winter sessions, early spring/late fall surf, and water temps between 45–55°F (7–13°C)

2. Hyperflex VYRL 4/3mm Fullsuit – Men’s

Best For: Cool-to-cold conditions and active surfers

Why It Stands Out:

This 4/3mm fullsuit strikes a perfect balance for surfers dealing with cold, but not freezing, water. If you surf in California winters or the Northeast during shoulder seasons, this suit keeps you warm while giving you more flexibility than bulkier 5/4mm suits.

The Hyperflex VYRL 4/3 uses the same AtomicFoam neoprene as the 5/4 model, offering incredible stretch and comfort. The interior thermal lining enhances heat retention while staying soft against your skin.

Key Features:

• 4mm chest/back / 3mm arms/legs

• Flatlock seam construction for moderate cold protection

• Chest zip for reduced flushing

• Quick-dry microfleece interior lining

• Lightweight, flexible feel

Ideal Conditions: 50–62°F (10–17°C), mid-season surf sessions

3. Hyperflex 5/4mm Cryo Men’s Hooded Full Wetsuit

Best For: Maximum warmth in very cold water (< 50 °F / 10 °C)

Why It Stands Out:
This Hyperflex CRYO wetsuit delivers extreme cold‑water performance straight from SunnySports. Construction uses premium neoprene with Fire Fleece lining to trap body heat. It features triple‑glued, blind‑stitched seams and an integrated hood for comprehensive protection. The front‑zip entry allows easy on/off even when wet and minimizes flushing.

Key Features:

• 5/4 mm neoprene thickness for serious insulation

• Chest‑zip entry + attached hood for sealed warmth

• Fire Fleece interior for superior heat retention

• Triple‑glued, blind‑stitched seams prevent water entry

• AtomicFoam stretch neoprene for flexibility

• Reinforced Duratex knee pads

Ideal Conditions: Water temps between 40–50 °F (4–10 °C); perfect for winter surf and prolonged cold sessions.

4. Hyperflex VYRL 3/2mm Fullsuit – Men’s

Best For: Cool-to-cold water surfing with maximum flexibility

Why It Stands Out:

The Hyperflex VYRL 3/2mm Fullsuit offers a perfect blend of warmth and performance for surfers tackling cool spring mornings or early fall swells. Designed with Hyperflex’s AtomicFoam Super Stretch Neoprene, this suit delivers exceptional mobility with a light, flexible feel.

Its fleece-lined interior retains body heat without sacrificing range of motion, making it a reliable pick for dynamic surfing in water temps from the high 50s to mid 60s°F (14–18°C). Strategic paneling and a minimal seam design reduce flushing and maximize stretch.

Key Features:

• 3/2mm neoprene construction (3mm torso, 2mm arms/legs)

• Durable Duratex knee pads and anti-flush ankle cuffs

• Chest zip entry for improved seal and easier donning

• Inner quick-dry fleece lining for added warmth

• Flatlock stitched seams for comfort and flexibility

Ideal Conditions: Water temps ~58–68°F (14–20°C); shoulder seasons, longer sessions in brisk but not freezing conditions

SunnySports Cold Water Surf Gear Recap

Tips for Cold Water Surfing

Even the best wetsuit won’t save you if you’re not fully prepared. Here are a few tips to keep every winter session safe and enjoyable:

1. Layer Smartly

Add a thermal rash guard under your wetsuit for extra warmth on icy days. Also consider gloves and boots as part of your cold water essentials.

2. Dry Between Sessions

Invest in a wetsuit hanger and drying rack. Drying your suit quickly prevents stiffness and mildew.

3. Check Conditions

Cold water surf often comes with strong winds and rough currents. Always surf with a buddy or let someone know your plan.

4. Warm Up Post-Surf

Have a hot thermos in your car or dry clothes ready for an immediate change after you exit the water.

5. Practice Quick Entry

On freezing days, every second counts. Mastering your wetsuit entry (especially with chest zips and hoods) makes suiting up faster and warmer.

Why Hyperflex from SunnySports?

SunnySports has curated a collection of performance-first wetsuits ideal for cold water surfers. The Hyperflex VYRL series offers high-end materials at a more accessible price than many premium surf brands. With flexible neoprene, ergonomic designs, and available accessories like boots, you can build a cold-water-ready kit without overspending.

And with fast shipping, reliable returns, and bundled gear deals, SunnySports ensures you’re set before the next swell hits.

Final Word

Cold water surfing rewards dedication—and with the right wetsuit, the chill becomes part of the thrill. The Hyperflex wetsuits from SunnySports deliver the flexibility, warmth, and comfort serious surfers need to chase waves through winter.

So grab your board, pull on that hood, and paddle into something unforgettable. Your next icy barrel awaits.

FAQs: Cold Water Surfing & Wetsuit Essentials

1. What wetsuit thickness is best for cold water surfing?

For cold water (typically 45–60°F or 7–15°C), you’ll want a 4/3mm or 5/4mm wetsuit.

• 4/3mm (4mm torso, 3mm limbs) offers flexibility with moderate insulation—ideal for mid-50s°F.

• 5/4mm is better for lower temperatures (below 50°F), offering more warmth for long sessions.

2. What’s the difference between a back zip and chest zip wetsuit?

• Chest zips are better for cold water—they reduce water flushing and improve seal.

• Back zips are easier to get into but can allow more water entry.

3. Do I need a hood for cold water surfing?

Yes—if water temps are below 50°F (10°C), a hooded wetsuit or separate neoprene hood is recommended to retain body heat, especially in windy conditions.

4. What other gear should I wear in cold water besides a wetsuit?

• Neoprene boots (5mm or more)

• Gloves (3–5mm neoprene)

• Thermal rash guard (under your suit)

5. How do I care for my cold water wetsuit?

• Rinse with fresh water after every session

• Hang dry inside out (avoid direct sunlight)

• Don’t machine wash or tumble dry

• Store flat or on a wide hanger to prevent creasing