Over the last 10 years, kiteboarding wetsuit technology has come a long way. We've seen kiteboarding-specific wetsuits come and go. Some ideas were great, others not so much. There was a time between 2012 and 2018 when suits were warm but perhaps not as durable. There were many good ideas like wind skin to keep you warmer or ways to stitch so they last longer and have less flush.

We're lucky enough to see most wetsuit brands offer a range of suits and prices to reflect the tech and the benefits. For most suits, you do get what you pay for. That said, picking the right wetsuit can be the difference between an epic session and calling it quits early. One of the most common debates that has been ongoing for a decade is front zip, back zip, and zipless wetsuits. This blog will help you decide the pros and cons of each style so you can choose what's right for you.

Athletes and riders pushing their bodies and the conditions are good candidates. Front zips are hands-down the warmest option. Why? The smaller front zipper means less water can sneak in, keeping you warm when the water’s cold. You get extra flexibility, too. There’s no long, stiff zipper on your back to deal with, so you can move more freely, making it perfect for kiteboarders who want comfort and mobility for technical freestyle or big air tricks. If you’ve got the shoulder mobility to get in and out of one, the front zip is where it’s at. .

Pros and Cons of a Front Zip Wetsuit:

Warmer: Maximum warmth due to less water flush.
 
Range of Motion: More flexibility,especially useful for freestyle and big air kiteboarders.

Current tech: Modern constuction and entry.

Cons of a Front Zip
Can cost more sometimes.

Can be harder to put on for bigger riders.

Can be difficult for those with shoulder issues.

Not as convenient for riders who need a quicker, easier option.

For non-athletes, after a session, if you’re exhausted, and trying to wriggle out of the suit in the parking lot. It feels like another workout.

Front zips can be a harder, especially when you’re wet and tired. If fitness is an issue, this isn’t the most user-friendly option.

Take this with a grain of salt, as most people who kite regularly are fit enough to get in and out of one.

Casual riders, riders in warmer places, bigger riders, or people with shoulder issues love the back zip. If you prioritize ease of use, the back zip’s your friend. The long zipper and pull string make it easy to get in and out, even if you’re not the most flexible. For heavy riders or anyone who doesn’t want to fight with their suit, back zips are the way to go. You sacrifice a bit of warmth due to water flush through the back zipper, but the convenience is hard to beat. If you ride somewhere like Florida, where cold is less of an issue most of the season, a backzip spring suit usually gets the job done.

Pros and Cons of a Back Zip Wetsuit

Easy: Much easier to put on and take off, especially for heavy riders.

Classic design: The long zipper string helps you zip up solo.

Savings: They can be cost effective.

A scenario think about: You’ve arrived at the beach for an afternoon session, and within minutes you’ve slipped into your back zip suit without any fuss. No hassle, no awkward arm movements—just zip up and go.

After your ride, it’s just as easy to take off, getting you out of the wind and back to comfort of your warm car in no time. For a lot of people, this is the easy option and it makes perfect sence.

Cons of a back zip:

Flushing: More prone to water getting in along the zipper, so it’s not as warm.

Wear points: Long zippers can be a wear point over time.

Comfort: Some riders prefer the feel of a front zip.

A cold water scenario to think about: You’re out on the water in February, as the session goes on, you feel cold water trickling in through the back zipper. This consistent flush isn't going to break your session, but you might not want to stay out for as long.

 

Zipless wetsuits, like those offered by Mystic and Pro Limit, are a great option for kiteboarders seeking maximum longevity and flexibility.

These suits are similar to front zips but rely solely on tightness to keep water out, eliminating the need for a zipper altogether.

This provides a huge boost in flexibility, allowing for an unhindered range of motion.

Zipless wetsuits are perfect for cool fall days, Florida winters, or even early winter in cooler regions. However, they tend to allow a bit more water in compared to front zip suits, so they’re not ideal for extremely cold conditions like Michigan in January. The absence of zippers also means fewer wear points, leading to greater longevity for your wetsuit.

The high cost of a cheap wetsuit: When it comes to wetsuits, you get what you pay for.

High-end kiteboarding wetsuits, like those from Pro Limit and Mystic, often feature reinforced seams, sometimes taped on the inside to prevent water from seeping in, which keeps you much warmer.

These suits often have strategically placed drainage points to prevent water buildup—so no more baggy legs filled with water!

On the other hand, cheap wetsuits come with limitations. They tend to be less flexible, can feel brittle or restrictive, and are more prone to filling with water, making them uncomfortable and less warm.

We highly recommend investing in kite-specific wetsuits from brands like Pro Limit and Mystic, which are designed for the wear and tear of the sport and include features like reinforced areas for harness wear and tailored fits that don’t restrict movement.

A cheap suit will get you by, but comfort is king, and a good suit will make the difference between a fun kiteboarding or wing foil session and a cold, stormy day

Choosing the right wetsuit depends on your priorities—whether it’s warmth, flexibility, or ease of use. Front zip wetsuits offer the best warmth and flexibility, while back zip wetsuits are ideal for riders looking for something easy to put on.

Zipless wetsuits offer a great balance of flexibility and warmth with fewer wear points, but they’re best suited for milder conditions.

For kiteboarding, investing in a high-quality, kite-specific wetsuit from brands like Mystic or Pro Limit ensures durability and comfort, making your time on the water more enjoyable and longer-lasting.

The expert team at Elite Watersports is here to serve. If you have any kiteboarding related questions call us. We can build custom kiteboarding packages, book kiteboarding lessons or simply offer helpful advice. We're your one stop shop for kiteboarding knowledge.

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If you need help deciding on your first kiteboarding kite give Elite Watersports a call. We're happy to set you up with your first kiteboarding kite.
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