This will be my first time buying a wetsuit and it looks like these are my two options from local shops, since I want to try them on before I buy. I could either get this: http://hyperflexusa.com/product/amp-3-front-zip-full-suit/ for $190, or this: http://www.quiksilver.com/product/index.jsp?productId=15680686&cp=2981771.2981778.16038856 for $115, although it may be the chest-zip version... I don't remember. Any reviews/experiences with either suit or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Never worn a hyperflex, but I've heard mixed reviews, some particularly negative ones coming with regard to durability. My advice to anyone when buying a wetsuit is to invest in buying a high-quality suit. Wetsuits are something to not skimp on - do your local shops really only carry those suits, or are you trying to keep to a budget? While I certainly understand tight budgets, in my humble opinion, better wetsuits are well worth the extra dough. Saving money is nice, but being warmer and more comfortable, while having better paddling ability due to higher quality (read stretchier AND warmer) is pretty nice too, and the higher-end suits last longer if you take care of them well, so you won't have to be buying a new one in a couple years. I'm not saying to go buy a patagonia or something crazy, but getting into the mid-range of suits goes a long way (Xcel infinitis, Rip curl e bomb or insulator, etc.) However, given that you're buying your first wetsuit, it crosses my mind that you may be younger and still growing, in which case, forget everything I said, if you're going to grow out of the suit in a year anyway.
I'm only on a budget because I have to be. I only have $200 and change left over from my job last summer and those are the only two suits that seem like they might be worth it in my price range. Also, as far as I know I'm done growing or will grow a marginal amount. I'm like 5'7", 140ish pounds.
My advice? Save up 50 to 70 more bucks. It's worth it. Go mow some lawns, paint some houses, or something. I did the discount wetsuit thing a few times. Since then, I've changed my philosophy and will not go back, much as my wallet would like me to at times. If you're set on one of these, talk to someone who's worn hyperflex, I haven't. Good luck!
As much as I'd like to save up a little more, I'd also like to get in the water as soon as I can. Maybe there will come a day when I invest more in a wetsuit, but today is not that day. In that case, should I just save myself some money and go with the cheaper quiksilver one?
I've had low end quicksilver suits and hyperflex suits and they have both fallen apart after a couple season (zipper, seams) but I understand that if you really want to get into the water and don't have a ton of cash.. So I'd probably get the Hyperflex but I'm sure you could find a 3/2 a lot cheaper than $190 (whiskymilitia like jcyr2 said is the best place to buy suits IMO)... Also if you only can afford one wetsuit you should consider going with a 4/3 which will allow you to stay in the water a little longer (more year round) and you wont lose that much flexibility. They also are a little cheaper now that it's closer to summer. Edit: didn't realize you wanted to try them on...
Ok, I got the quiksilver because it was cheaper. Maybe I'll regret it, but I'll have to wait and see. While we're on the topic of wetsuits and stuff, are boots and/or gloves still necessary right now? I'm guessing yes, but I just want to be safe.
Hell yeah, what that guy said. I was a cheapskate for years and it didn't really matter because I was surfing south Florida where it doesn't really matter what kind of suit you have. Just never gets very cold. I picked up a nice $300 hyperflex this winter, and that thing blew my mind. Do not skimp on the wetsuit you hash slinging shredder. If you can afford hash, you can afford a decent suit.
Rip Curl......whatever third world country they got throwing them together...they have their shoot together.......they have done me well........ plus, since you are 5'7'' Rip Curl's are good fit-wise for smaller types since Aussie are smaller than Americans. I'm serious. That's not a joke........... Also, for when are you planning to use the steamer(that's Aussie slang, mate, for wetsuit.....) if you are just looking to get by May to October(I have no idea where you are) then cheaper models might not be warm enough for mid November but will work just fine May to October............Some cheaper models aren't as warm as other models it doesn't necessarily denote faulty production........
Xcel has a 4/3 and 3/2 for under $200. Totally worth it. I paid $150 for my 3/2 frontzip. However my winter suit is a totally different story. 4/3 hooded Xcel at $400 but worth every penny.
Alvin, do you have the SLX? I just got the 3/2 Infiniti X Zip 2 and am looking forward to it lasting a while as a daily wear. Been pleased with the durability and comfort of other Xcel suits.
I picked up an XCEL 4/3 hooded Infinity on whiskey last fall for about $229. They had my size (ML) and at that price i couldnt pass it up. What an amazing suit...xcel suits have always been durable and warm, but they were on the heavy side. This suit is planey warm and flush-proof the the built in hood, but seems a lot lighter than the older xcel hooded suits.
