Xcel Comp+ Wetsuit Review

Xcel has been around since 1982, committing 40+ years to crafting purposely driven products for the dedicated surfer. Designed in the warmth of the North Shore of Oahu with roots in the cold water of the Northeast, the 2024 Xcel lineup is a culmination of R&D, rigorous testing, and proven performance. 

The new Xcel Comp+ model is a glimpse into what Xcel has in store for the future. While this wetsuit sits in the middle of the Xcel lineup, it fits and feels like a high-end suit. With swell on the horizon and froth to quell, it was time to put the Xcel Comp + to the test in the Pacific Northwest.

Xcel Comp+

Neoprene and Liners

The Xcel Comp+ is lined with Thermo Dry Infrared (TDIR), the most lightweight and flexible in the Xcel quiver. I found the Xcel Comp+ Hooded 5/4mm to be plenty warm. As a side note: TDIR contains metal in the lining to block out the cold and reflect the heat from within for additional warming properties. The steamiest is the Drylock series, lined with Ultra Stretch Infrared in the arms and legs and Thermo Dry Inferno (TDI) through the chest and thighs. As the name implies, this high pile fuzzy lining brings the heat even in the most extreme elements. Each of these wetsuits' exterior is lined with supple Xcel Channel Flex, a water-repellent textile that is as comfortable as it is effective. 

The Comp+ is made with Nanoprene Lite Japanese Limestone—an environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based neoprene with better-insulating properties that also take on less water. Each is woven with dope-dyed yarn to reduce emissions and water pollution, and like most brands, they use water-based adhesives. Unlike most brands, Xcel is committed to being neoprene-free and using fully sustainable packaging by 2026.

Seams and Stitching

Each seam on the Comp+ series is triple glued and blind stitched, then sealed in the interior with Fusion X tape. This combination of stitching and tape provides lasting durability and a watertight seal throughout the wetsuit.

For me, one of the first fail points on a wetsuit tends to be the rubber seal on the cuffs, which rips away from the lining. The cuffs on the Xcel Comp+ are ultra-flexible, which makes for easy entry and exit, yet they are strong enough to stay sealed and keep water out. This directly translates to increased integrity, prolonging the wetsuit's life.

Fit and Cut

I am roughly 6’1” (185cm) tall and weigh 190 lbs. (86 kgs) with an athletic dad bod. I tend to fit into Larges in most brands, with few exceptions. The Xcel Comp+ is a comparable fit and cut to the competition, and I would say it is true to size.  The large front and back panels equate to fewer seams, which could make for a compromised fit, but the Comp+ fit like a glove, and there was no bulking or bulging under the arms or chest.

I found the hood and visor comfortable and effective. The hood cinch is a static cord and needs two hands to operate, which isn’t a deal breaker, but it is nice to single-handedly cinch the hood in a jiffy before you take one to the dome. I also wanted to like the Glide Skin chin guard, but it tends to move around when duck diving a set. Simply keep the cinch tight, and this becomes less of an issue.

Entry and Zipper

The Xcel Comp+ lineup are all chest zip entries, which can be one of the trickier entry systems for a novice to squeeze into. But, the Easy Entry system makes it a breeze. Getting out of a 5/4mm after a sesh can be laborious but I found it to be one of the easier wetsuits in my wardrobe to get out of due to its overall flexibility. The non-corrosive zipper glides smoothly yet stays put, and the snap closure ensures that. A key leash on the chest eagerly waits for those who drive a car without a fob. For me, a lockbox does the trick.

One thing to be aware of is the super silky lining. While it is comfortable and warm, the threads in the lining tend to snag, especially on gnarly toes and fingernails, Velcro, or splintering logs used to get dressed. Don’t let that deter you; just protect your investment like you would any other wetsuit.

Performance

Xcel Comp+ Suggested Wetsuit Thickness 

Value and Durability

I have worn or tested just about every wetsuit brand on the market. This being my first Xcel, I was excited to see how well it performed as I geeked out over the techy features and construction. The moment I tried it on and hit the water, I knew this would become one of my favorites to wear year-round. 

The Xcel Comp+ is a mid-level wetsuit with a top-tier vibe. After a month's worth of testing, I am stoked to say that it is holding up to the abuse with little to no degradation. If I encounter an issue, Xcel wetsuits are backed with a one-year warranty on all seams and neoprene for peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

The Xcel Comp+ is here to rival the competition and is tailored for the surfer looking for the perfect balance of flexibility, comfort, and warmth. Some seemingly subtle differences make this wetsuit a standout for me, especially for the price. If I had to compare the Xcel Comp+ to other brands in a few short words – it feels like a billy, stretches like a freak, and is warm as a ripper. 

The Xcel Comp+ is also available as a hoodless 3/2mm, 4/3mm, hooded 3mm, hooded 4/3mm, and the tested hooded 5/4mm. For the ladies, the Xcel Comp+ is available in a hoodless 3/2mm and 4/3mm and a hooded 5/4mm.

Are you looking for added warmth to battle the elements? The Comp X, Infiniti, and Drylock series progressively step up in craftsmanship with their premium linings and added features such as the back knee flex grooves or the smooth skin panels of the Drylock series.

Not headed to ride glacier waves in the Arctic? The Comp and the Axis are an excellent value for the surfer looking to maximize wave count and their budget. These entry-level wetsuits offer fewer frills than the previously mentioned models but are built to perform no matter where you surf.

If you have any questions about the Xcel suits or need sizing help, feel free to leave a comment, call us at 1-888-546-6176, or email us at support@cleanlinesurf.com. Enjoy the water!

Chad

Chad has spent a lot of time on both coasts but now calls the PNW home. When he's not actively shredding the gnar or shipping surf gear to the masses, he is either playing with his dog, fishing, crabbing, clamming, foraging, or tending to his garden.