Back Zip vs Chest Zip Wetsuits: Pros and Cons

All types of wetsuits have advantages, and most have some downsides that buyers should consider. Whether you're into open-water swimming, surfing, boating, or other water activities, a form-fitting wetsuit is an essential part of your kit. The zip you choose can affect your range of motion, performance, and comfort.

Back zip neoprene wetsuits (or neoprene alternatives) have a single zip up the back, usually from the small of the back to the neck. A chest zip also has a vertical zipper running from the waist to the collarbone or neck. Sometimes chest zip suits have a shorter zipper. In this article, you'll learn the pros and cons of both types of suits so you can make an informed buying choice.

Overview of Wetsuit Designs

Before we get into the breakdown of these two main zip types, let's explore the reasons athletes use wetsuits.

Definition and Functionality of Wetsuits

A wetsuit is a specialized garment designed to keep you warm in the water. The outside is waterproof while the inside has layers of thermal insulation to trap your body heat and keep you from freezing in cold water. Wetsuits are also comfortable and flexible to allow you the freedom of movement to swim, surf, or dive. There are many different types of wetsuits; some are extra warm while others offer extra flexibility.

Types of Wetsuit Entry Systems

Here you can see a man wearing a back zip wetsuit. This one has a handy pull handle that allows her to pull up the zip with ease by herself.

Above, you can see an image of a chest zip wetsuit that fastens securely at the front.

When it comes to back zip vs. chest zip wetsuit options, both have pros and cons, which we'll explore in the next section.

Back Zip Wetsuits

Let's take a look at back zip wetsuits first. After all, these are generally the most common options and are often provided by swimming clubs and other watersport organizations.

Design and Features

Back zip wetsuits are the most readily available type of wetsuit. The zipper pulls up from the lower back to the neck. Sometimes, the zippers will have an attachment to make it easier for users to put their own suit on when training on their own.

Many types of wetsuits have back zips, including some brands of triathlon swim suits. One brand that offers high-end, triathlon-ready zip suits is Tyr wetsuits. However, back zip wetsuits are also suitable for entry-level swimmers, surfers, and anyone into watersports of any type.

Advantages

The main advantages of a back zip wetsuit include:

• Easy to put on as you just step into the suit.
• A smooth, comfortable front to the suit.
• Usually less constrictive than front zip suits.
• Great value for money as there are usually cheaper back zip wetsuit options available.
• An ideal entry-level option.

Disadvantages

However, like all pieces of athletic gear, even back zip wetsuits have a few disadvantages:

• Can let more water in via the zip than chest zip suits.
• People with long hair can get it caught in the zip very easily.
• Many suits have a Velcro closure by the neck which can be uncomfortable and pull the hair.
• Not every suit has a pull handle/string to make it easy to reach the zip, making solo training difficult.

Despite these potential downsides, many people prefer the back zip suits. Famous triathlete Gwen Jorgensen always wears a back zip wetsuit, and she won Olympic Gold in 2016.

Chest Zip Wetsuits

Like back zip wetsuits, chest zip suits offer a good balance between flex and thermal protection. However, they're fastened from the front instead of the back.

Design and Features

With a chest suit, you step into it like a pair of trousers and pull on the sleeves from the back. The zip usually starts just under the navel and pulls up to the collarbone or throat. However, some have a diagonal zip that goes along the top of the chest.

Advantages

Here are just a few of the reasons people choose chest zip suits:

• Less chance of water entry through the zip or top of the suit.
• When less water gets in, athletes stay warmer.
• Hair won't get caught in the zip making these suits more accessible and inclusive.
• Ideal for colder water making them a great choice for open-water swimming.
• A warmer suit means swimmers and surfers can have fun in the water for longer.
• Some chest zip suits have reduced drag making them the choice for advanced divers and surfers.

Disadvantages

However, these suits aren't for everyone. Here are a few downsides:

• Some people find these suits harder to get in and out of.
• A zipper around the throat/collarbone can be uncomfortable as the skin is more sensitive here than at the back.
• Chest zip suits may be too warm for some seasons.
• They can be very snug which some people don't find comfortable.
• They can also be very expensive.

Alex Fromer, a surfer and creative with VICE, states that she always wears summer wetsuits with a chest zip because, despite any disadvantages, they simply keep water out better.

Comparing Performance in Water

Of course, what most athletes want to know is, which performs best in the water. This largely depends on the conditions you're in, but also on your own personal preferences. If you're more comfortable, there’s a greater likelihood of you performing better.

Suit Performance in Various Conditions

A chest zip suit is probably the best choice for cold or choppy water. These suits let in less water, meaning they handle both chilly and fast-moving ocean settings better.

A back zip suit can be better for warmer water, as there's less chance of the wearer feeling too hot or constricted in these suits. Back zip suits are ideal for pool settings or calm ocean/lake water.

Suit Durability and Maintenance

Both types of suits have highly durable zips that just need to be kept clean and dry when not in use. Leaving suits wet can cause zips to corrode and jam, especially if you've been swimming in mineral-rich ocean water.

Neoprene suits are generally the most durable and there is very little difference between chest and back zip suits when it comes to quality and durability. Always look at user reviews before buying to ensure you're getting a top-quality suit.

User Considerations and Preferences

The most important considerations for buying a wetsuit are how you're going to use it and if it will be comfortable for you.

Suit Selection Based on Activity Type

The first thing to consider is what you'll primarily use the wetsuit for. If it's casual swimming or the occasional surf trip, there's little point investing in a top-of-the-range suit designed for triathletes. A budget-friendly back zip suit is probably your best bet. However, if you're training for an event or regularly compete in surfing challenges, a high-end, chest zip suit may be worth your while.

Personal Comfort and Fit

Your own body shape, type, and comfort must be a top priority. If you have limited flexibility, for example, you may struggle to put a chest zip suit on. However, that can also be a challenge for back zip suit owners who only ever swim solo. If you have particularly sensitive skin, you may find front zips irritating. Consider your comfort carefully, and take the time to get advice from a trusted swimwear provider. If you can, try on some different types of suits to discover which gives you the best fit combined with comfort and protection.

Find All Types of Wetsuits at SwimOutlet

Now you know all the factors that go into making a back zip vs. chest zip wetsuit choice. Weigh up the pros and cons listed above. If you have long hair and often train on your own, a chest zip suit may be more appropriate. However, if you find zips at the front uncomfortable, you may prefer a back zip suit.

Shop SwimOutlet for all types of wetsuits from women's wetsuit tops to men's, boys', and girls' wetsuits. And, if you have any questions about choosing the right type of wetsuit, feel free to get in touch.

FAQs

Is it better to have a zipper on the front or back of a wetsuit?

When considering back zip vs. chest zip wetsuit options, your choice depends on whether you have long hair, if you mind water getting in the back of your suit, and comfort. Chest zips can be uncomfortable for some, but the zip is easier to pull up. However, back zip wetsuits are easier to get into.

Are chest zip wetsuits hard to get into?

Some people find chest zip wetsuits harder to get into. However, others dislike the Velcro closure on the back of back zip wetsuits. So, it's a matter of weighing the pros and cons of both.

Why is the zip on the back of a wetsuit?

Zips are traditionally on the back of a wetsuit to allow wearers to step in and out of them with ease. However, many people now prefer chest zip wetsuits which prevent as much water entry and can make it easier to swim and surf with long hair.

What is the easiest wetsuit to get in and out of?

Many people agree that back zip wetsuits are easier to get in and out of than chest zip wetsuits. However, if you are training on your own, it's much easier to zip up a wetsuit that closes at the front.