
31 products
Kona Surf Co carries men's wetsuits, spring suits, tops, and accessories from trusted brands like O'Neill and Xcel. From full suits for cold morning sessions to lightweight tops and booties for year-round comfort, start here or jump straight into the brand lane you already know you need.
31 products
Picking the right wetsuit comes down to a few key factors: water temperature, the type of sessions you're paddling into, and how the suit fits your body. Here's what to know before you buy.
Wetsuit thickness is measured in millimeters, and the numbers tell you how much insulation you're getting. A 3/2mm suit (3mm in the torso, 2mm in the arms and legs) handles water in the low 60s. A 4/3mm adds warmth for the mid-50s and below. For summer or tropical water above 68°F, a 2mm spring suit or neoprene top is usually all you need. Match your thickness to the water you actually surf in, not the coldest day you might encounter once a year.
We stock O'Neill and Xcel because both brands deliver solid construction at fair prices across their full lineups. O'Neill's Reactor and Epic lines are proven workhorses for surfers who want reliable warmth without overspending. Xcel's Comp and Drylock series use high-end materials like Celliant infrared lining for surfers who want top-tier performance. We also carry Kona-branded neoprene tops and accessories for lightweight layering.
A wetsuit should feel snug everywhere with no gaps or bunching, especially around the neck, wrists, and ankles. If water pools in the lower back or you can pinch more than an inch of neoprene at the chest, size down. Too tight and you'll gas out paddling. Every brand fits a little differently, so if you're between sizes or unsure, reach out to us and we'll help you dial it in.
Early morning glass-off in January? A 4/3mm chest zip with sealed seams will keep you warm through a two-hour session. Summer evening surf with a light onshore breeze? A 2mm spring suit gives you enough coverage without overheating. Heading somewhere tropical? A long-sleeve rashguard or neoprene top handles the occasional chilly morning. And don't overlook booties and gloves for those days when the water temp drops and your extremities check out before the rest of you does.
Looking for more warm-water gear? Check out our men's rashguards and UPF tees for sun protection without the neoprene. If you're building out a full quiver, browse our surfboard collection or grab a soft top for those mellow days.
Any time the water temperature drops below about 70°F, a wetsuit helps you stay comfortable and surf longer. In the mid-60s, most surfers reach for a 3/2mm full suit. Below 58°F, a 4/3mm keeps the cold out. Wind chill and session length matter too. Even on a warm day, an hour in 65-degree water without neoprene will cut your session short.
It depends on your local water temps. For water above 68°F, a 2mm spring suit or top is enough. Between 60-68°F, go with a 3/2mm full suit. From 52-60°F, a 4/3mm is the call. Below 52°F, you'll want a 5/4mm with a hood, gloves, and booties. If you surf the same break year-round, a 3/2 and a 4/3 will cover most conditions.
Back zip wetsuits have a long zipper down the spine. They're easier to get in and out of, making them a good pick for beginners or anyone who values convenience. Chest zip suits use a shorter zipper across the chest, which means less water gets in through the entry point. They tend to fit more snugly and stay warmer in colder water, so experienced surfers often prefer them.
Snug but not restrictive. You should be able to paddle and pop up without the suit fighting you, but there shouldn't be any loose spots where water can flush in. Pay attention to the neck seal, wrists, and ankles. If you can slide a finger under the neck gasket easily, it's too loose and you'll get flushed. A little tightness when you first put it on is normal and the neoprene will break in after a few sessions.