My wife is an experienced OWS looking to buy her first thermal wetsuit. She’s 5’ 1” and 90 lbs. She’s interested in the Orca Zeal and Vitalis thermal wetsuits, but she’s concerned about the “batwing” extra layer in the back/shoulders.
Any feedback about either of these wetsuits? More specifically:
1. Any difficulty getting the wetsuit on/off because of the batwing?
2. Issues with fit, or ease of movement in the water because of the batwing?
thanks.
I have the Orca Zeal and swim in it regularly. The batwing is clutch and I love it. I don’t notice it when I’m swimming and this post is the first time I’ve thought to think about it.
Getting in and out of the wetsuit is as easy as any of the wetsuits. The batwing just pulls overhead.
I do think that the legs could have been a little longer. This is a freaking thermal wetsuit. The water is COLD. Why would I want the lower third of my legs freezing off. That said, the thermal material seems to make it okay.
I actually think the batwing cuts down on chaffing around the neckline of the wetsuit. I have less neckline chaffing with this suit than other wetsuits.
I’m on my 3rd Zeal wetsuit. They do last pretty well, but aren’t as durable as surf wetsuits or Patagonia wetsuits. Which is normal.
Very happy with the Vitalis. The batwing is mostly unnoticeable during the swim and very easy to pull up when you’re done. The legs are long enough (but I have to admit I’m fairly short-legged) and you’d generally wear a pair of neoprene booties anyway. A very good buy if you plan to swim regularly in very cold water.