Best Women’s Mid-Range Hooded Wetsuits of 2025
Are you ready to take your surfing to the next level? Look no further than a quality women's mid-range hooded wetsuit. Whether it be paddling through cold winter waters or battling choppy waves, having the right wetsuit for protection and performance is key for taking your technique up a notch.
With so many options out there, it can be difficult to know which suit will fit best and offer the most value. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 2025's best mid-range hooded wetsuits specifically designed with female surfers in mind, helping you make an informed decision and ensuring that you stay safe while also staying warm as you shred some waves.
Best Women's Mid-Range Hooded Wetsuits Reviewed
Best high-performance wetsuit: O’Neill Women’s Hyperfreak 5/4+ Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $449.95
Best value wetsuit: Rip Curl Women’s Dawn Patrol 5/4 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $319.95
Best eco-friendly wetsuit: Billabong Women’s Salty Dayz Natural Upcycler 4/3 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $349.95
Best blend of warmth and performance: Xcel Women’s Comp+ 5/4 Hooded Chest Zip Wetsuit - $429.95
Read on to discover the best women’s mid-range hooded wetsuits this year that will meet your budget and performance needs.
Wetsuit Industry Insights and Updates
We continually update our reviews to keep the content relevant as the wetsuit industry continues to evolve.
- Billabong Bankruptcy: Billabong's parent company filed for bankruptcy earlier this year. Because of that, we expect a limited inventory of all Billabong wetsuits in the near future.
- Rip Curl also upgraded the best-selling Dawn Patrol with a 50/50 blend of Yulex Rubber and their standard E5 neoprene.
- Cleanline Surf now proudly carries Xcel, which has been producing quality suits, boots, and gloves for decades.
- Some wetsuit manufacturers are changing the sizing of their women's suits, going from numbered sizes to letter sizes. For example, some brands now refer to a size 4 as an S (small), a 6 as an M (medium), and so on.
O’Neill Women’s Hyperfreak - $449.95
“Best high-performance wetsuit”
- Most flexible hooded suit for women
- Fully taped internal seams
- Lightweight
- Not as durable
- Cinch cord can stretch out
Our Take: The high-performance Hyperfreak is the queen of neoprene. This badass ripper doesn’t back down when it comes to pumping overhead swell or icy cold currents flowing down from the north. O’Neill got it right with the ever-popular 4/3 model, and it was a no-brainer to also release a 5/4+ version.
First of all, once you feel the stretch and flex of the Technobutter 3 neoprene, you’ll never turn back. Say adios to paddling fatigue due to the lightweight Technobutter 3x neoprene used in the shoulders and arms of the suit. The GBS and fully tapped interior seams give the ideal combo of warmth and maneuverability to prolong your sessions.
In conclusion, the + stands for an extra 0.5mm of neoprene, or 5.5/4.5mm. The Hyperfreak fits true-to-size and is the epitome of a 2nd skin feel for the optimal water seal. It doesn’t hurt to be extra careful when handling the Hyperfreak. It tends to be a more delicate suit compared to others, and we notice it wears out quicker than the competition. This suit is so popular that we can barely keep it in stock. Don’t hesitate to contact us for restock availability if your size isn’t listed on our website.
Read our full review here: O’Neill Women’s Hyperfreak Wetsuit.
Rip Curl Women’s Dawn Patrol - $319.95
“Best value wetsuit”
- Best-seller
- 50/50 Yulex Rubber & neoprene blend
- Quick-drying internal liner
- Spot taping on high-stress areas
- Not as flexible as competitor suits
- Bulky liner
- Fits small
Our Take: Originating in Australia, Rip Curl knows something about designing quality hooded wetsuits. The Dawn Patrol has been a shop favorite year after year. From the classic Rip Curl logo to the minimal paneling, the Dawn Patrol packs in the necessary features without breaking the bank.
New for 2024, Rip Curl upgraded the Dawn Patrol’s rubber to a 50/50 blend of the eco-friendly Yulex natural rubber and the standard E-series neoprene, which has been around for years. In addition, the external layer of the suit is made 100% from recycled textiles. Although it's not considered the most flexible suit in this blog, these sustainable upgrades make the Dawn Patrol stand out while maintaining a decent price point.
Another big draw of the Dawn Patrol is the pink interior E5 Flash Lining, which covers the body and upper legs. The lining provides warmth in the cold water and is quick-drying once out of the water. On the inside, E5 tape is applied in high-stress areas for added durability and extra warmth on those bitterly cold days.
Furthermore, Rip Curl extends a generous 3-year warranty on all stitching, ensuring that you’re taken care of down the road. We recommend sizing up if you’re in between sizes because the brand tends to run small. Look no further than the new and improved Dawn Patrol for one of the best mid-range 5/4mm wetsuits under $320.
Read our full review here: Rip Curl Women’s Dawn Patrol Wetsuit.
Billabong Women’s Salty Dayz Natural Upcycler - $349.95
“Best eco-friendly wetsuit”
- High-end warmth and performance
- Internally taped seams
- 100% neoprene-free
- Not made in a 5/4 hooded model
- No tall or short sizes
Our Take: A dependable 4/3 hooded wetsuit is hard to find in the women's wetsuit market. However, the recently upgraded Salty Dayz Natural Upcycler is a gem for its high-end features and stylish, feminine flair.
Back in 2024, Billabong re-launched the Salty Dayz Natural using its proprietary natural rubber, made from a blend of soybean oil, recycled carbon black, and natural rubber ethically sourced from FSC-certified forests. Similar to the Dawn Patrol’s exterior jersey, the Salty Dayz Natural's outer layer is made using 100% recycled textiles. Our first impressions? High-end stretch and comfort that are typically only found in high-end suits.
Another noteworthy mention is the Graphene Comp internal liner. Graphene conducts and retains heat more efficiently than traditional liners while remaining incredibly strong. Overall, the Salty Dayz Natural Upcycler delivers warmth, quality, and performance at an affordable price. It is also one of the most eco-friendly 4/3 hooded options available.
Xcel Women’s Comp+ - $429.95
“Best blend of warmth and performance”
- High stretch
- Pre-fed zipper
- Silky interior liner
- Internal liner threads can catch easily
- Hood cinch takes two hands to operate
- Chin guard doesn't stay in place
Our Take: If your old suit is wearing out and you need something new that has the perfect blend of flexibility, comfort, and warmth, look no further than the Xcel Comp+. This suit is a brand-new model from Xcel, and we’re stoked to add another mid-range suit to our cold water wetsuit inventory.
Using Xcel’s most lightweight internal liner, Thermo Dry Infrared (TDIR), with its fuzzy yellow appearance, and hydrophobic Nanoprene neoprene, the Comp+ excels in terms of performance. Other notable highlights include the pre-fed zipper (easy on and off), snug wrists and ankles (minimizing flushing), and internally taped seams.
Jump on the Xcel bandwagon and discover why surfers have been flocking to their products for over four decades. Try a Comp+ and discover why professional surfers such as Sage Erickson also gravitate towards this particular suit.
Read our full review here: Xcel Comp+ Wetsuit Review.
Best Women's Mid-Range Hooded Wetsuits Comparison Table
| Wetsuit | Price | Neoprene | Interior Liner | Seam Construction | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| O’Neill Hyperfreak 5/4+ Hooded Chest Zip | $449.95 | TechnoButter 3X | TB3 Firewall | GBS + TB3X Taped | Lightweight, high-performance surfing |
| Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 5/4 Hooded Chest Zip | $319.95 | E5 Neoprene | E5 Flash Lining (Core) | GBS + Taped | Budget-friendly cold water surfing |
| Billabong Salty Dayz Natural Upcycler 4/3 Hooded Chest Zip | $349.95 | Natural Rubber | Graphene Recycler | GBS + Taped | Eco-conscious surfing in cool to cold water |
| Xcel Comp+ 5/4 Hooded Chest Zip | $429.95 | Nanoprene Lite | Therolite Infrared | GBS + Taped | Warmth + performance in cold water |
Women's Hooded Wetsuits FAQ
What makes a wetsuit “mid-range”?
Mid-range wetsuits typically cost between $320 and $450. They offer better warmth, durability, and features than entry-level suits but without the premium price tag or cutting-edge materials of high-end models.
Are mid-range wetsuits warm enough for winter surfing?
Yes, especially models with a 5/4mm or 6/5mm thickness and an integrated hood. Many mid-range suits now include features like thermal liners and taped seams, which help retain body heat even in water as cold as 45°F.
How long will a mid-range wetsuit last?
With proper care, a good mid-range wetsuit should last 2–3 seasons of regular use. While they may not be as long-lasting as premium suits, many still offer excellent durability for the price.
Is there a big difference in flexibility compared to high-end suits?
Yes and no. Mid-range suits may use slightly less advanced neoprene, so they can feel stiffer, especially when new. However, many modern mid-tier suits are still quite flexible and break in nicely after a few sessions.
Do I need a hooded wetsuit, or can I wear a separate hood?
An integrated hood offers better warmth and less flushing than a separate hood. For comfort and safety, a hooded wetsuit is strongly recommended for surfing in water under 55°F (13°C).
Similar 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.
- Surf Wetsuit Glove Guide - Read more for all things gloves from different styles, thicknesses, how to size, and construction.
- Best Women’s Affordable Hooded Wetsuits - Take a peek at our top picks for first-time wetsuit buyers or surfers on a budget.
- Best Women’s High-End Hooded Wetsuits - If you’re a hard charger needing the best of the best, don’t pass on our recommendations for the premium suits full of the best tech and features.
Final Thoughts
Every wetsuit on this list brings something unique to the table, but the best one for you depends on your local conditions and personal preferences. If you tend to run cold, look for extra insulation and premium liners, like the Billabong Salty Dayz Natural with its sustainable warmth. Need freedom of movement for long paddle-outs? The featherlight O'Neill Hyperfreak is built for performance and comfort. Looking for maximum value without sacrificing quality? The Rip Curl Dawn Patrol delivers durability, warmth, and the trusted Rip Curl name—all at a great price point.
Still unsure which women’s wetsuit is right for you? We’re here to help. Chat with our team of real surfers who know the gear inside and out. Drop a comment below, give us a call at 1-888-546-6176, or email us at support@cleanlinesurf.com—we’ll help you find the perfect fit so you can stay warm and surf longer.
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