Winter surfing in Gisborne and across most of New Zealand demands a high-quality 4/3mm wetsuit to keep you warm while maximizing flexibility and comfort. Whether you're chasing winter swells at Midway Beach, Wainui, or beyond, having the right wetsuit is crucial for an enjoyable surf session. There are a range of wetsuits available depending on your budget. Over the years we've narrowed our range down to our favourites but still cover plenty of options.
At Blitz Surf Shop, we stock some of the best 4/3mm wetsuits for winter surfing in 2025. Below, we break down why a 4/3mm wetsuit is ideal for New Zealand’s cooler waters and highlight the top models available.
Why Choose a 4/3mm Wetsuit for Winter Surfing in NZ?
A 4/3mm wetsuit features 4mm neoprene in the torso for warmth and 3mm in the arms and legs for increased flexibility. This thickness is perfect for winter surfing in Gisborne and most of New Zealand, where ocean temperatures generally range from 12°C to 16°C during the colder months.
To help you get more enjoyment out of winter surfing in New Zealand check out our helpful blogs 5 Tips for Surfing in Winter and Tips for Making The Most Out Of Winter Surfing
Benefits of Wearing a 4/3mm Wetsuit in Winter:
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Excellent Insulation – Keeps your core warm while allowing mobility. So you can surf longer
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Flexibility & Comfort – Modern wetsuit technology ensures freedom of movement so you don't fatigue as quickly as you would with an older wetsuit.
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Sealed Seams & Thermal Lining – Helps retain body heat and prevent water flushing keeping you wearmer for longer.
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Durability – A well-maintained 4/3mm wetsuit will last multiple seasons. Check out our handy wetsuit care guide to help you extend the lifetime of your wetsuit.
Best 4/3mm Wetsuits for Winter Surfing 2025
Some of these models are carrying through from 2024, so check out our Winter 2024 wetsuit buying guide for detailed information
Rip Curl Flashbomb Chest Zip
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Ultimate warmth with E6 Flash Lining throughout the entire suit for fast drying. The lining is dry to touch in 20-30 minutes so if you are lucky enough to have more than one surf in a day you are not jumping back into a cold, wet wetsuit
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Sealed seams to prevent water entry. Glued and stitched with E6 Flashdry taping internally on all seams.
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Chest zip design for minimal flushing and better flexibility.
- E6 and E7 superstrech neoprene for minimal resistance and optimal stretch
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This is a super warm, high performance, higher end wetsuit
Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Back Zip
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A great balance of performance and value. Higher end features for a mid-priced wetsuit
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E5 Flash Lining on the inside for warmth chest and back. Standard thermal lining to ankles.
- GBS sealed seams throughout with internal taping body and legs.
- Back barrier to prevent flushing
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Back zip entry for easier wear and removal.
O’Neill Fire X Chest Zip
- O'Neill's top end, cold water wetsuit
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Fire Wall lining provides extra warmth. Touch dry in 20-30 minutes internally
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TB4X neoprene for superior flexibility.
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Minimal seam design for increased comfort and mobility.
- Glued, stitched and rubber welded seams to fully seal your suit and increase seam durability.
- Triple layered honeycomb neoprene chest and back to trap warm air and keep your core super warm and toasty
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CHest zip entry for warmth and performance
O’Neill Hyperfire Chest Zip
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Designed for elite-level performance with added warmth features.
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Firewall lining for added warmth.
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TB4 Air Firewall neoprene for lightweight insulation.
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Super stretchy Technobutter TB4 and TB4X neoprene
O’Neill Hyperfreak Chest Zip
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One of the most flexible wetsuits available. O'Neill's best sellign wetsuit.
- Ideal for active surfers who are paddling around a lot.
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TB4X neoprene for maximum stretch and comfort. Very little resistance so you can maximise your sessions
- GBS and taped seams
- Chest zip entry for freedom of movement and high performance
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Minimal seams for unrestricted movement.
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Top end stretch neoprene at a mid-range price
O’Neill Defender (Chest Zip & Back Zip Options)
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Chest zip model for better flexibility and warmth.
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Back zip model for easier entry and exit.
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Glued and blind-stitched with internally taped seams to reduce water entry.
- Thermal lining through body and legs for extra warmth
- 100% Ultraflex DS stretch neoprene
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HIgh end features for a lower mid-priced wetsuit
O’Neill Reactor GBS Back Zip
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Ideal for surfers looking for a budget-friendly winter wetsuit.
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Glued and blind-stitched seams to prevent water seepage.
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UltraFlex neoprene for increased durability and comfort where it is needed.
- STandard neoprene in non-strech areas to keep the cost down
Rip Curl E-Bomb Chest Zip
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Performance-driven wetsuit with lightweight materials.
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E7 neoprene for increased stretch and comfort.
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Chest zip or zip free entry for better warmth and minimal flushing.
- Ultimate performance wetsuit for the dynamic surfer
Tips for Staying Warm While Winter Surfing
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Use a Hood, Booties, and Gloves – When temperatures drop, extra neoprene accessories can make a huge difference.
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Warm Up Before You Paddle Out – Stretching and light movement before surfing help maintain circulation. Wear wamr clothing before and after your surf
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Rinse and Dry Your Wetsuit Properly – Keep it in top condition by rinsing with fresh water and drying in the shade.
Shop 4/3mm Winter Wetsuits at Blitz Surf Shop
At Blitz Surf Shop, we stock a range of high-performance 4/3mm wetsuits from Rip Curl and O’Neill to keep you warm and comfortable in the water this winter. Whether you're after a premium performance suit like the Rip Curl Flashbomb or O’Neill Fire X, or a budget-friendly option like the O’Neill Reactor GBS, we've got you covered.
Check out our full range online at www.blitzsurf.co.nz or visit us in-store in Gisborne to find the perfect wetsuit for your winter surfing sessions.
