Best open water swimming wetsuits

ORCA Vitalis Breast Stroke Women Openwater Wetsuit

£199

Pro: Excellent flexibility
Con: It isn’t the warmest wetsuit

This is Orca’s first wetsuit designed for breaststroke swimming, made with high elasticity and low buoyancy to maintain a natural swimming position. The distribution of Yamamoto neoprene means that your legs don’t lift excessively, which puts less pressure on your lower back, while the high elasticity means the suit adapts to the movement of your upper body, as well as making it super easy to take off. The buoyancy feels noticeably different to a standard suit and allowed me to move with ease. Bear in mind, it’s also thinner than most wetsuits, which means it’s not as warm. I tested it in a 10-degree lake, and I spent less time in the water than I would have done with a thicker suit. That said, it should be plenty warm enough for spring to autumn swimming. JT

TYPHOON Performance
3/2mm Full Wetsuit

£199

Pro: High neckline for protection against the elements
Con: Can feel the seams around the knee area

I tried this wetsuit during a lake swim, doing both front crawl and breast stroke. It works best for front crawl thanks to the stretchiness in the underarms and buoyancy in the legs. The plush lining in the chest and back area kept my core warm, and I was thankful for the higher than usual neckline, as my neck tends to suffer most in cold water. The wetsuit is well built with quality seams and structuring that I’m sure will withstand a lot of wear, but I could feel the seams of the knee panels after a while and wondered if they would irritate during a longer swim. The legs of the suit also feel a bit baggy around the calves when getting out of the water, which is a strange sensation perhaps not conducive to a swim-run or triathlon. All in all, these are just a couple of minor flaws that don’t take too much away from it being a high-quality wetsuit. AW

ZOGGS Explorer Ultra FS Open Water Wetsuit

£350

Pro: Excellent buoyancy
Con: Slim fit arms

The Explorer Ultra FS is made with Yamamoto 38 neoprene, which is known for its flexibility, buoyancy and durability. Three different thicknesses ranging from 1.5mm to 2.5mm provide an optimal balance of flexibility and support a hydrodynamic body position in the water. It was easy to put on, and I felt well supported and fast in the water. The material was also warm, with little water ingress, and the double face neoprene in the armpits and inner legs feels like it will be durable. The fit wasn’t ideal for me – while it fit like a glove on the legs and lower body, it was too slim in the sleeves. However, you can customise the arms to the desired cuff length, which would fix this issue and allow for a bespoke fit. Overall, I was very impressed and excited to try it out over longer distance swims. SO

ORCA Zeal Thermal Open Water Wetsuit

£449

Pro: Warmest wetsuit on test
Con: Takes time to get on

This wetsuit is perfectly designed for colder temperatures with its thermal lining and 5mm panels that provide extra insulation. The extra layer of the “batwing” hood is another clever aspect of the suit, preventing water entering the zipper area. When accessorised with a neoprene hood, gloves and booties, I was able to do some swim training outdoors during autumn and winter, and I was amazed by how flexible and lightweight the wetsuit felt, considering the thickness of the neoprene. As with any Yamamoto neoprene suit, it can be time-consuming and delicate to put on, but the protective gloves provided certainly help with this. This wetsuit is a game changer when it comes to winter swimming. AW

WILDA The Dart

£265

While most open water wetsuits are muted blacks and greys, Wilda has created a suit that embraces the joy, vibrancy and individuality of open water swimming without compromising on function, buoyancy and warmth. It’s made with Yamamoto limestone neoprene, a material known for its exceptional flexibility and durability, and better carbon footprint compared to petroleum-based neoprene.
The neoprene is soft and supple and feels fantastic. Once in the water, the targeted buoyancy allowed for a natural swimming position, which worked well for both breaststroke and front crawl.
The distribution of materials has been well thought out, too. The chest panel features 4mm neoprene to increase buoyancy and support the upper body for a comfortable breaststroke position, while the back and legs are 3mm, which allows for a slightly reduced buoyancy in the legs, suited to the female physique. JT

ZONE3 Active Flex

£189

Superb flexibility
Con: None

I tested this wetsuit on a windy day paddleboarding and swimming in the river. There’s a superb amount of flexibility in the shoulders for the stroke movement of SUP, and the knee panels provided great support and cushioning while on my knees on the board. Breaststroke swimming felt smooth and balanced, and I was easily spotted from the riverbank thanks to the orange highlights and zip toggle. There was a chilly breeze and the water was cold but the wetsuit provided ample insulation for the few hours I wore it. And it was a doddle to put on and take off, too – a godsend for frequent wetsuit wearers! This is a cleverly designed all-rounder wetsuit for a day’s adventuring on the water. AW

LOMO Nuotare 3/2mm Men’s Swimming Wetsuit

£125

Super easy to get on and off
Con: Not great for speed

Lomo introduced the women’s Nuotare a couple of seasons ago and it was so popular with recreational swimmers that they’ve now introduced a men’s equivalent. It’s a great entry-level suit with an attractive price tag, and a simple and durable design. It is made from a stretchy, double-lined neoprene, which means it is more robust and very easy to get on and off. However, if you’re chasing speed, this suit probably isn’t for you. I am 5ft 9, 100kg and have a 38-inch waist and this suit was super roomy, I would recommend sizing down if you look at the size chart. As a fair-weather swimmer who often does short swims and dips, this is ideal for cooler water temperatures or cooler weather. BT

ZONE3 Aspire

£549

Pro: Solid high-performance wetsuit for racing or long-distance challenges
Con: Not suitable for extreme cold

The Zone3 Aspire is lightweight, smooth on the outside and soft on the inside. It went on easily for a snug but non-constricting fit. It feels like a quality suit. I had a slight concern that the collar was too wide and might let in water around the neck but this didn’t happen and it was comfortable while swimming. In the water, the suit is balanced and fast, as a high-performance wetsuit should be. Flexibility around the shoulders is excellent and water ingress minimal. I’m looking forward to trialling this in a race. One small trade-off to be aware of: in 12.7-degree water, I started to feel the chill after 10 to 15 minutes. This wouldn’t be a problem in shorter races, but I’d be more comfortable with an additional layer or a thicker suit for longer recreational swims. SG

HUUB Araya

£279

Surprisingly roomy for rounder bodies
Con: Takes a few uses to shape to your body

Looking at the brand’s size chart, I wasn’t sure HUUB wetsuits were for me. But after chatting to the team and trying a couple of suits, I was pleased to find the Araya comfortable, snug in all the right ways and brilliant in the water. It features a flexible neoprene and HUUB neutral arm positioning design, which for someone who likes to swim skins, was a welcome feature allowing for a great freedom of movement. I often tire quicker in a wetsuit, feeling restricted across chest and shoulders, but this excellent value suit felt great to swim in and didn’t impact my stroke. It does have significant buoyancy, which means I felt like I was skimming across the surface at times, but if you need that, it is great! EF

ORCA Zeal Hi-Vis

£379

They say: The Zeal Hi-Vis combines visibility, buoyancy and elasticity. It’s the ideal wetsuit for open water swimmers who face the harshest conditions. The arms, legs and back feature high-visibility orange for safety. The buoyancy of Aerodome 2 technology will keep you feeling safe on your open water adventures. For increased thermal comfort and better sealing, a second layer of “batwing” neoprene is included, which prevents water from entering the suit’s zipper and neck area.

We say: The bright orange sleeves, calves and back are certainly easier to see in the water than the darker colours you traditionally find on wetsuits. The suit is comfortable to swim in and kept us warm in 10 degree water. The ‘batwing’ layer is a clever addition. It extends the full length of your back and prevents the unpleasant feeling of cold water seeping in through the zip. It also loops around your neck, reducing water ingress. If you are sensitive to having tight things around your neck, you may find this uncomfortable.

ZONE3 Terraprene Vision

£399

They say: The first wetsuit of its kind, the Terraprene Vision features a ground breaking new fully biodegradable rubber. X-10 one-piece shoulder panel design extends across the chest and shoulders to give more flexibility and stroke efficiency. Body rotation enhancement panel on the front helps maximise distance per stroke and body roll during the swim. The ultra-stretch material allows for a maximum range of motion.

We say: This suit fit like a glove and was so easy to take off. Even in 8 degree water, it kept us warm with a snug collar that lies flat to prevent water ingress. The ultra-stretch material allows for a fantastic range of motion while well placed neoprene panels of varying thickness provide buoyancy and warmth such as 1.5mm panels over the shoulders for max range of motion. The men’s suit has 5mm buoyancy panels on the torso and front legs to promote a flat and streamlined front crawl position.

ZOGGS Explorer Tour FS Open Water

£180

They say: Designed for swimmers taking the first step on their open water journey. Double face neoprene makes this suit both durable and comfortable, ideal for swimmers new to wearing a wetsuit. The swim specific design provides high-level elasticity and a perfect fit. Stitch-free critical areas allow you to swim without hindrance. Customisable cuff length allows you to customise the legs and arms of your wetsuit to your desired cuff length.

We say: We love the style of this entry-level wetsuit, with its fluorescent yellow highlights and contour print – great for being seen in the water! Our 5’8” tester found the suit a little short in the body but once in the water the flexible material loosened up and provided full range of movement. The majority of the suit is 2mm neoprene with a 3mm core panel and it felt remarkably warm in 8 degree water with almost zero water ingress, even around the zips.

ZONE3 Aspect ‘Breaststroke’ Suit

£179

They say: The Aspect wetsuit has been updated with Pro-Speed wrist cuffs for easy removal, sleeker graphics and an improved construction for a longer lasting wetsuit. However, the premise is the same. The revolutionary Aspect wetsuit allows open water swimmers to swim both breaststroke and front crawl in comfort.

We say: Although you can swim any stroke, the combination of 1.5mm, 2mm and 3mm neoprene thickness helps keep the legs submerged in the water to promote a natural breaststroke swimming position, reducing pressure on the lower back. Our tester has been trying to improve their breaststroke and the wetsuit certainly helped, letting them focus on improving their form, the high stretch nylon inner leg panels allowing flexibility in the leg kick. Changing after a dip was easy due to the ‘Pro-Speed’ wrist cuffs. Available in men’s and women’s.

ZOGGS Hypex Ultra FS Triathlon

£700

They say: Hypex Ultra FS is Zoggs’ top-of-the-line wetsuit for triathletes who desire unrivalled flexibility for superior freedom of movement during their swim. Hypex Ultra FS combines extreme flexibility with a neutral buoyancy profile to unlock the ultimate unrestricted, natural swim feeling. The HYPEX construction utilises careful panel architecture to increase the neoprene elongation and stability with no compromise to the stretch. This allows for enhanced flexibility.

We say: Not just for triathletes! If you’re looking for a fast, comfortable swim this is the suit to choose. It’s supple, lightweight and a pleasure to swim in. The reverse zip makes it easier to remove the suit in a hurry – something that you don’t need in a swimming race – but we found the zip more comfortable for swimming as the fastener sits above the small of your back rather than behind your neck; it’s also less likely to come undone. However, it’s almost impossible to zip up alone.

YONDA Ghost 3

£589

They say: The Ghost 3 is designed to deliver dynamic flexibility and in water ‘feel’ that will give you the ultimate swim experience. Handcrafted tailoring for quality, comfort, durability, and strength with lightning-fast transitions thanks to our unique easy off “slippy” lining. Yonda have designed the ultimate performance wetsuit that optimises your body position and works with you, delivering an unparalleled feeling as you cut through the water.

We say: The Yonda Ghost 2 was a favourite for long distance swims and racing, so we were excited to try the next iteration. The Ghost 3 retains the best features such as the lightweight fabric forearm panels, while the new suit feels more flexible and supple. Swimming feels natural and fast. Our only warning is the forearm panels: while we recognise their benefit, the minimal protection is noticeable in very cold water.

Aquasphere Phantom V3

£439.99

They say: The Aquasphere Phantom wetsuit provides an increased range of motion with strategically placed 1.5mm Yamamoto 40 panels and reinforced waist panels for posture support. It provides warmth, flexibility, comfort and speed. This is our most technological advanced wetsuit for the most elite athletes. Extra support on the waist improves posture and enhances hip rotation and Thermo-Guard technology on chest, shoulders and legs helps retain body heat.

We say: The stand-out feature of this racing wetsuit is the double layer collar, which feels smooth around the neck, close fitting but not constricting. It does a good job of keeping water out, too. Overall, this suit is soft and supple, and comfortable to wear, while the core support around the lower back adds noticeable rigidity in a key place and made it feel stable. We needed assistance with the reverse zip but once on, it’s snug and secure. It’s as flexible and fast as you’d expect.

YONDA Spectre

£389

They say: This wetsuit incorporates exceptional build quality, flexibility and speed at an affordable price point. The advanced design and handcrafted quality build deliver extra strength and durability; comfort with all key seams taped and lightning fast to take off. The Spectre is aimed at first timers to triathlon and open water swimmers who are looking for a high quality, but affordable first wetsuit. If your mission is to kick ass at an affordable price this is your suit!

We say: Honestly, we didn’t hold out much hope for this suit to fit our plus size swimmer. Sizing for bigger bodies is a challenge and even if a suit fits, the buoyancy panels can work a little too well for an already buoyant body. The Yonda Spectre was a dream-fit and great to swim in! We loved the thinner neoprene on the arms for flexibility without impacting arm rotation. The paneling is well thought out, providing lift and support without restriction across the chest. A great investment.

LOMO Nuotare

£125

They say: The Nuotare is a revolution in ladies swimming wetsuits. Most swimming wetsuits are versions of smooth skin triathlon wetsuits where the objective is to shave every last second off your race time. This makes the suits slightly faster than regular wetsuits but also makes them more fragile and easily ripped. The Nuotare takes all the design and shape features from our triathlon wetsuits but combines them with a super stretch material that has super stretch nylon on the outside instead of smooth skin finish. This makes the suit more durable, but also more stretchy making it easier to get on.

We say: We love this suit for its ease to get on and off as well as its multi-use. While the design has considered the needs of open water swimmers, it has been made for those who wish to enjoy the water without the need to win prizes for speed. This would suit swimmers who want the thermal benefits of a wetsuit without the need for technical details. The size-inclusive range ensures that pretty much anyone can wear the suit. The durable material held up well on a wild swim which included a bumpy section of rocks and a climb in and out of the water.

BLUE SEVENTY Reaction

£480

They say: Our all time best selling suit gets the upgrades needed to keep it at the top of its category. The paneling in the upper body of the 2024 Reaction has been redesigned to encourage more natural rotation and increase distance per stroke. These features, combined with the refined fit on the arms, create a suit that delivers everything you need for training and racing.

We say: The updated Reaction suit has had more than a cosmetic facelift. This premium suit has 1.5mm neoprene on the arms, shoulders and side panels, allowing unrestricted arm movement and easier rotation. Buoyant 5mm neoprene on the chest and hips encourages a streamlined position. The neckline is relatively high but seemed comfortable and didn’t allow water ingress. This is a wetsuit designed for frontcrawl swimmers who enjoy racing and training but also need a suit with greater durability than elite-level wetsuits.

ALPKIT Element Jacket and Pants

£99.99 (jacket), £99.99 (pants)

They say: The Element is Alpkit’s new two-piece wetsuit with four variations on offer. Both vest and long sleeve on the top with shorts or full-length bottoms on offer for the legs. With Paddleboarding growing and more people wanting to explore by water, the Element was born. The front zip on the tops makes getting in and out of them easier so you spend less time struggling to change at the water’s edge.  

We say: This was my first time trying a two-piece wetsuit, and it didn’t disappoint. I particularly liked the high cut at the bottom, helping to keep full coverage. It’s ideal for those who want to reduce the faff that often comes with taking a wetsuit on and off. There is slightly more water ingress than there would be in a one-piece suit, making it more suited for those going for more leisurely swims or getting involved in open water activities.

ORCA Vitalis Thermal Wetsuit

£369

They say: The Vitalis Thermal is a thermally insulated wetsuit for open water swimmers. It combines specific technologies for heat retention such as Thermal X technology and sealing technologies such as a second layer of “batwing” neoprene, which prevents water from entering the zipper and neck area. The high-thickness panels give the swimmer excellent buoyancy which helps them conserve energy during cold weather sessions. 

We say: This is a seriously warm wetsuit, which surprisingly retains a lot of flexibility and ease of movement despite the additional insulation. I was impressed by the design; there was little water ingress throughout my swim. I would recommend this for the coldest months, allowing training in open water and longer distance swims to remain a possibility.

FINISTERRE Nieuwland 3/2 Yulex Back Zip Wetsuit

£250

They say: Our first back zip wetsuit designed to be easier to get in and out of. Yulex® Pure natural rubber 3mm suit for 14-18℃ sea temperatures with 2mm panels on the arms and legs for easy entry. Featuring double needle blind stitch construction, high chest pile and recycled polyester fabrics. 

We say: This wetsuit gave a snug and comfortable fit. With a maximum thickness of 3mm, this is more suited to warmer months, or for those who want to maintain a natural body position in the water as far as possible. I particularly love how it’s made from Yulex® natural rubber, which produces up to 80% less Co2 than traditional neoprene.

SPEEDO Proton Fullsuit

£140

They say: Flexibility for light speed. For speed in the water and the transition out of it, the Proton range uses light, flexible, hydrophobic materials, suitable for strong swimmers looking for an extra edge on their performance. The Fastskin Proton Wetsuit has been developed with Y38 (Yamamoto 38 cell neoprene rubber) – a well-balanced foam providing high buoyancy and flexibility that makes it the most versatile neoprene available – to make sure it performs when it counts.  

We say: This suit retails at a reasonable price, making it ideal for those new to outdoor swimming and looking to dip a toe in. The suit itself is exceptionally light and flexible, making it both easy to be transported around and taken on and off. There was some water ingress in the neck area when swimming, however.

SPEEDO Proton Fullsuit

£140

They say: Flexibility for light speed. For speed in the water and the transition out of it, the Proton range uses light, flexible, hydrophobic materials, suitable for strong swimmers looking for an extra edge on their performance. The Fastskin Proton Wetsuit has been developed with Y38 (Yamamoto 38 cell neoprene rubber) – a well-balanced foam providing high buoyancy and flexibility that makes it the most versatile neoprene available – to make sure it performs when it counts.  

We say: This suit retails at a reasonable price, making it ideal for those new to outdoor swimming and looking to dip a toe in. The suit itself is exceptionally light and flexible, making it both easy to be transported around and taken on and off. There was some water ingress in the neck area when swimming, however.

HUUB Aegis X

£399

They say: Every sporting goods company has a product that is too good to replace and delivers in so many ways that it’s earned a legacy in their lineup. For HUUB, Aegis is the product that’s always been there, that’s always delivered amazing performance, amazing feedback, and incredible value. Aegis X incorporates tried and tested technologies along with scientific research that ensures your swimming performance and enjoyment. 

We say: This wetsuit is at a slightly higher price point, but the design and quality feel make it worth it. This wetsuit allows for robust performance in the water, particularly with the flexibility in the upper body. I felt very little strain when swimming front crawl, and little impact on my stroke form and body position. A really solid choice.