Best-Selling Wetsuits of 2021
2021 was a big year for wetsuits; we sold over 120,000! More of us than ever before took to our British seaside, suited up, and ready for a staycation. There were some stand out winners, as well as some exciting newcomers to our bestseller list. We caught up with our resident wetsuit expert Will, to find out which wetsuits you loved the most and why.
The O’Neill Epic range was an instant hit in its first year, now a few seasons on it always sells out first. This mid-range wetsuit is a best seller because it offers great value for money whilst still featuring some of the features from top-end wetsuits! Epic used to be back zip only, but chest zip was added a couple of years ago and has become really popular. Also, it's not just any chest zip, it's their F.U.Z.E. System - which is US patented. This is actually part of the suit and has extra drainage points to stop water from getting in the suit. It's the same system as their top-end wetsuits.
Key features:
- Full Ultraflex neoprene for ultimate stretchiness
- FUZE entry with YKK Zip to prevent water ingress
- Engineered reduced panel fit
- Double neck seal
The Absolute’s updated lining and neoprene makes this wetsuit one of the best value wetsuits on the market. Billabong have been doing their bit for the environment as now all billabong wetsuits include 30% upcycled car tyres and are made with a natural limestone-based neoprene.
Key features:
- Engineered fit & seam placement for comfort & performance
- Recycled graphene lining
- Superlight super-stretch foam/neoprene
This mid-range wetsuit has been the overall top women’s range for a few years in a row. Billabong keeps releasing on-trend prints for these wetsuits and they’re always popular. Will says ‘The Synergy range benefits from tech found in Billabong's top-end wetsuits filtering down, such as the Graphene thermal lining’
Key features:
- Recycled graphene lining
- Superlight super-stretch foam/neoprene
- On-trend prints
The Rip Curl Omega wetsuit range was updated this year with a big improvement in its quality and feel. This wetsuit includes Rip Curl’s top-end E5 neoprene in arms and E3 neoprene in the body which gives a great stretch/durability combo.
Key features:
- E5 neoprene in the arms & E3 neoprene in the body for a great stretch/durable combo
- Smoothskin HydroLoc collar for comfort and to eliminate flushing
- Rip Curl Quality guarantee at a great price
Suitable for the whole family, the Gul Response has a wide range of sizes, thicknesses, and colours and is a top seller across the whole range. At great value for money and high-quality features like the x-flex neoprene, there’s no wonder this wetsuit is a top seller.
Key features:
- SuperStretch neoprene ensures a proper fit
- Water resistant zip prevents water from entering the suit
- Thermal lining on the core
- Smoothskin collar for comfort
This high-end hooded wetsuit is one of the warmest wetsuits out there. O’Neill wins the prize for best selling hooded wetsuits with the Psycho Tech+ range. Will says ‘The great thing about this wetsuit is that it manages to keep its stretch even with all its warm features.’
Key features:
- TechnoButter 3 neoprene + lining for warmth
- Stitchless seams making the suit waterproof and durable
- Additional 0.5mm neoprene where possible without impacting stretch
2021 was a huge year for Mystic as a disruptive brand taking high-end wetsuit sales. The Majestic is by far the most popular Mystic wetsuit. But what is it that everyone loves about this wetsuit? Will says ‘this wetsuit is full of premium technology like its top neoprene and unique boardsports features’
Plus, right now, this wetsuit also comes with a free Mystic wetsuit bag (whilst stocks last).
Key features:
- Flare Mesh lining for warmth
- Fully waterproof stretch taped seams
- Yamamoto premium Japanese neoprene which is more environmentally friendly than other neoprenes
- Boardsport Features: Aquaflush, Wind mesh, Ankle straps
This mid-range wetsuit has been flying off the shelves ever since its update 2 years back. This wetsuit is our buyer’s top pick when it comes to value for money and top features. With this wetsuit you’ll be getting the same features as some of their top end suits but at a lower price!
Key features:
- Flash lining chest to knee
- Premium high stretch E5 neoprene all over
- E5 Taped seams 75%
- Large panel size for extra flexibility
- 3 year stitching guarantee
An all-time bestseller, this wetsuit is not only great value for money and stylish it also has a full range of inclusive sizes up to UK16. This no.1 women’s wetsuit outsells all men’s wetsuits. This year grey was the most popular choice however this wetsuit comes in a range of different colours.
Key features:
- Women-specific cut for a great fit
- High-quality neoprene in arms
- Durable neoprene in body + knee pads
- GBS Seams
Shop all wetsuits here.
Written by Lucy Harris.
Updated on 17th March 2022
Originally published on 14th January 2022 in Wetsuit Guides
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