Nieuwland 5 Hooded Wetsuit

My third of these suits. The first ones were of less flexible rubber, but lasted very well. They have always been tight across the shoulders to get on and off, but offer fantastic warmth and great shoulder flexibility. Made for a surfer's shape so an XL does not come with a large amount of excess material around the waist, as is the case for most other XL suits. The most recent suit did not last for quite so long as previous suits. That could be down to greater use. Given the lifespan of just over a year my original reason for choosing Finisterre, being longer lasting and less environmental impact falls away to some extent so I will reconsider other suits this time, which I have not done at the end of the last 2 suits.

I have used this suit for approx 50 sessions in autumn and winter. kitesurfing, stand up surfing and foiling.

Easy to put on for a 6mm, not stiff at all.

As of now there is no obvious signs of wear, still feels like a new suit. High quality, nice zip design can be closed one handed. Very comfortable, very nice fit no flushing through the neck/chest entry even when wiping out with the hood down. My only gripe on cold days foiling it's not super warm on the arms (4.5mm) I bought this to replace my patagonia R5 who's seams cracked in a few weeks. Overall very happy with it.

Took it out for the first time last weekend in Devon and didn't feel any bit cold during a 4h sessions. Keeps you very warm and doesn't hinder your movement too much. Great wetsuit for the colder winter sessions!

Moved to Aberdeen and needed something to deal with slightly chillier winds and waters. Fits beautifully and barely feel the water, gorgeous suit, tricky to get into at first but improving with every session.

Brilliant winter wetsuit that will keep you very warm in an Irish winter. The build quality is amongst the very best I have ever seen.