Best Affordable Women's Wetsuits Under $350 for 2024
Wetsuit manufacturers are experimenting with new materials to produce the warmest and most flexible wetsuits. Thanks to all the trickle-down technology, today’s entry-level wetsuits are more comfortable and of better value than ever before. We realize that not everyone is looking for a top-tier wetsuit. More often than not, most surfers are on a budget and need an affordable wetsuit to get the job done without breaking the bank.
When searching for a wetsuit under $350, you’ll want to pay close attention to the seam construction and neoprene quality. Those two features can make or break your time out in the water in the long run. Below are our top picks for the best affordable and quality lady’s wetsuits your money can buy for under $350
Best Affordable Women’s Wetsuits Reviewed
Best overall wetsuit: Billabong Women’s Synergy Natural Upcycler Wetsuit - $249.95+
Best budget-friendly back zip wetsuit: O’Neill Women’s Epic Wetsuit - $219.95+
Best value wetsuit: Rip Curl Women’s Dawn Patrol Wetsuit - $259.95+
Best seam construction: Buell Women’s RB2 Wetsuit - $289.95+
Best high-performance wetsuit: Manera Women’s Seafarer Wetsuit - $279.00+
Industry Insights and Updates
- Although wetsuit prices have increased over the years, many highly recommended options are still available under $350, from 3/2 full suits to 5/4 hooded suits.
- We now carry Xcel and Manera, who both offer high-quality affordable suits.
- Billabong completely revamped its Synergy line with a 100% neoprene-free rubber and it’s now referred to as the Syngery Natural Upcycler.
- Rip Curl also updated their Dawn Patrol rubber to include a more eco-friendly 50/50 blend of E5 neoprene and neoprene-free rubber.
Billabong Women’s Synergy Natural Upcycler Wetsuit - $249.95+
“Best overall wetsuit”
Pros
- Neoprene-free wetsuit for under $300
- Full of eco-friendly features
- Easy-to-use entry system
Cons
- No short or tall sizes aside from the 5/4 collab model
- Baggy chest for slender body types
Our Take: First up, the revamped Billabong Synergy Natural Upcycler has it all: affordable price point, groundbreaking graphene technology, eco-friendly materials, and flexible neoprene free rubber. With features like that, it’s no surprise this suit took the top spot.
For Fall 2024, Billabong relaunched the formerly known Synergy as the all-new Synergy Natural Upcycler. A proprietary Natural Rubber is incredibly soft and supple, constructed out of recycled carbon black, soybean oil, and 85% natural rubber sustainably sourced from FSC-certified forests. On the inside, the suit's core has a purple honeycomb-looking graphene liner known for its heat-producing properties. As someone who runs cold, I love how warm my graphene liner feels while sitting out in the lineup. In addition, the exterior jersey called Upcycler Pro Stretch is made using 100% post-consumer recycled materials.
We like the Synergy Natural Upcycler so much that Billabong made a Cleanline exclusive 5/4 non-hooded back zip model. This particular model is our go-to rental wetsuit for customers surfing in the cold waters of Northern Oregon. We’ve found that Billabong runs on the larger side and is a solid option for the curvier surfer. If you’re shopping on a budget or looking for a dependable backup suit, the Synergy Natural Upcycler is in a league of its own, being a rare affordable neoprene-free option. With its durability and all-around great fit, check out the hottest suit at Cleanline today!
Read our full review here: Billabong Women's Synergy Natural Upcycler Wetsuit.
Shop By Model
Billabong Women’s Synergy Natural Upcycler 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $249.95
Billabong Women’s Synergy Natural Upcycler 4/3 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $269.95
Billabong Women’s Cleanline Synergy Natural Upcycler 5/4 Back Zip Wetsuit - $239.95
Billabong Women’s Synergy Natural Upcycler 5/4 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $299.95
O’Neill Women’s Epic Wetsuit - $219.95+
“Best budget-friendly back zip wetsuit”
Pros
- True to size fit
- Simple back zip entry
- Durable neoprene
- Large variety of sizes with short and tall options
Cons
- Only made in backzip entry
- Smooth skin can tear easily
Our Take: The Epic is a robust entry-level suit with many high-end O'Neill features. Starting off with the neoprene. The Ultraflex Neoprene, which is both lightweight and durable is one of the toughest in our inventory making it a great choice for first time surfers looking for a dependable suit. Another great characteristic is the double seal neck closure, which is comfortable and helps prevent any unwanted water from entering the suit.
The Epic comes equipped with O'Neill's lumbar seamless design (large paneling) and a re-engineered covert blackout zip to ensure maximum ease of entry and flexibility. Lastly, the chest and back of the suit are covered in a smooth skin paneling. The paneling acts as a wind blocker and keeps the suit warm by trapping the heat from the sun.
The Epic has been a shop staple for years when it comes to surfing cold water and has successfully stood the test of time. We see everyone from first-time buyers to seasoned veterans who are looking for a backup suit reaching for the Epic based on its proven dependability. There is an Epic for nearly every body size! If you are looking for a warm, affordable wetsuit from a dependable company, this is your suit.
Read our full review here: O'Neill Epic Wetsuit.
Shop By Model
Rip Curl Women's Dawn Patrol Wetsuit - $259.95+
“Best value wetsuit”
Pros
- Warm and quick-drying liner
- Available in back and chest zip entry
- Internally taped seams
- 50/50 Neoprene-free rubber blend
Cons
- Internal liner can be bulky
- Minimally taped interior seams
Our Take: The Rip Curl Dawn Patrol wetsuit has consistently been one of our top-selling wetsuits over the years. For under $300, you can grab any of the different thicknesses of the highly reviewed Dawn Patrol - although the hooded model tops out at $320. Rip Curl has consistently improved the model line, and the latest edition features high-end components and a brand-new eco-friendly rubber update at an affordable price tag.
In addition to being a B Certified corporation, Rip Curl continues to push the envelope of sustainable wetsuit manufacturing practices. Their latest step was to convert the entire Dawn Patrol model line to a 50/50 neoprene and natural rubber blend. The suit now comes standard with the 5th generation of Elastomax Superstretch Neoprene (E5) and Yulex, which is a plant-based natural rubber sourced from FSC certified forests. It also features a 100% recycled outer jersey and uses water-based glue.
The famously warm and comfortable E5 Flash Lining is now located on just the chest and back, while a lightweight E4 Thermo Lining is used on ¾ of the suit, mainly the hips and legs. The Dawn Patrol suit features internally taped seams in critical areas like the pits, crotch, and knees. This type of seam construction results in a better water seal and overall durability in areas that see a lot of wear and tear.
The Dawn Patrol model line offers suits with 3/2 back zips and 5/4 hooded coldwater options, perfect for recreating in water temperatures from 45 F to the high 60s F. If you’re looking to support a brand that continually pushes the envelope of wetsuit design and sustainability, don’t pass on the Women’s Dawn Patrol.
Read our full review here: Rip Curl Women's Dawn Patrol Wetsuit.
Shop By Style
Rip Curl Women's Dawn Patrol 3/2 Back Zip Wetsuit - $259.95
Rip Curl Women's Dawn Patrol 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $259.95
Rip Curl Women's Dawn Patrol 4/3 Back Zip Wetsuit - $279.95 Coming Soon
Rip Curl Women's Dawn Patrol 4/3 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $279.95 Coming Soon
Rip Curl Women’s Dawn Patrol 5/4 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $319.95
Buell Women's RB2 Wetsuit - $289.95+
“Best seam construction”
Pros
- Quality features at an affordable price
- Exterior fluid seamweld
- Buttery soft neoprene
- Comfortable thermal liner
Cons
- Wrist and ankle cuffs can run loose
- Only available in black
Our Take: We may be biased, but from the get-go, many of us at Cleanline have been equally impressed with the quality of Buell wetsuits. The RB2 is highly recommended for the first-time buyer, the “summer only” surfer in the PNW, or someone looking to flatwater kayak or SUP during the shoulder seasons. Heck, don't back down when the temperatures drop: take the 5/4 out in colder water by pairing it with booties and gloves.
Next up, let's dive into the features that make this suit so versatile. The RB2 is available in sizes that will fit women ranging in weight from 105-175 lbs with its true-to-size fit. The Ninja neoprene is buttery soft with an impressive flex compared to similarly priced suits. All seams are glued and blindstitched along with a “soft seal” interior seam tape for the ideal combination of warmth and flexibility. From personal experience, I appreciate how the seam placement allows for optimal comfort and enhanced movement from top to bottom.
Read our full review here: Buell Women's RB2 Wetsuit.
Shop By Model
Buell Women's RB2 4/3 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $289.95
Buell Women's RB2 5/4 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $299.95
Buell Women’s RB2 6/5/4 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $329.95
Manera Women’s Seafarer Wetsuit - $279.00+
“Best high-performance wetsuit”
Pros
- Quality features at an affordable price
- Exterior fluid seamweld
- Buttery soft neoprene
- Comfortable thermal liner
Cons
- Wrist and ankle cuffs can run loose
- Only available in black with no special accents
Our Take: Lastly, the Manera Seafarer stands out with its premium design and solid mid-range price. Manera's innovative 3D design delivers one of the best fits we've encountered. The Seafarer is crafted for high-performance surfing, emphasizing warmth, stretch, and durability.
The suit features Manera’s entry-level S-Foam neoprene, which provides the perfect balance of stretch and comfort. Don’t overlook the X10D liner—it’s the same one used in the $470 X10D suit! After testing it in the chilly Oregon waters, we were impressed by its warmth and flexibility.
If you’re interested in a sustainable mid-range suit, the Seafarer fits the bill with its limestone-based neoprene, recycled neoprene and fabrics, recycled carbon black, water-based glue, and dope-dyed yarn. For more on the sustainability aspects, check out the Sustainability chapter in our Wetsuit Guide.
Shop By Model
Manera Women's Seafarer 3/2 Back Zip Wetsuit - $279.00
Manera Women's Seafarer 3/2 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $279.00
Manera Women's Seafarer 4/3 Back Zip Wetsuit - $289.00
Manera Women's Seafarer 4/3 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $269.00
Manera Women's Seafarer 5/3 Chest Zip Wetsuit - $289.00
Honorable Mentions
Roxy Women’s Swell Series Wetsuit: Roxy has been around for years, making women-specific surf gear. Their Swell Series is a popular choice for many first-time wetsuit buyers with it’s affordable price tag and colorful patterns.
Sisstrevolution Women’s Seven Seas Wetsuit: The Seven Seas packs in everything you need while maintaining a reasonable price point. Sisstrevolution suits definitely have a slimmer design to them, making them a great choice for more petite surfers.
Relevant Blogs We've Written
- Women’s Wetsuit Fit Guide - It’s got a great FAQ section, further insight into how the different brands fit, and guidance on sizing a wetsuit.
- A Women's Guide to Wetsuit Entry Systems - Curious about the difference between a chest zip, back zip, and zipless entry? Read further for more details.
Final Thoughts
We hope that you found this review helpful in deciding what women’s wetsuit best suits you and your budget. Whichever option you choose, we're confident that you'll benefit from the improved functionality, warmth, and style of the available wetsuits.
Now it’s up to you to decide. What wetsuit are you drawn to? Don't worry if you can't make a choice right away - take some time perusing through all the information we provided and consider all factors before making a final decision. Have peace of mind when paddling out at your local break, knowing that together, we have provided you with quality wetsuit options at an affordable price!
If questions arise along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance as well! Feel free to call us at 1-888-546-6176, drop a comment below, or email us at support@cleanlinesurf.com.
SarahOriginally from the rolling hills of New Hampshire, Sarah now calls Oregon home. She started at Cleanline Surf in 2019 and, since then, has grown into the role of the Customer Service and Blog Manager. When she’s not at work helping dial in customers with surf gear, Sarah is happiest out adventuring. From mellow summer surf sessions to winter splitboard missions to ripping down her favorite mountain bike line, Sarah is always ready to go at the drop of a hat. |
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