Wetsuit Chest Piece

[travelzomg]

Hi all...!

I am looking for a (well my first since i am new to surfing) wet suit and have been through a lot of pages, names and information...
now there is something that keeps me wondering:

I see different types of wetsuits - some with a straight neoprene chest piece that goes all the way down to the knees...
and some which have that rubbery panel on the chest...

i reckon its about enhancing friction between the suit and the board so you wont slip off that easy...
but is it realy that...?
or are there any other major differences concerning the chest which i should consider when buying my suit...?

thanks in advance for the info...

[behindThePeak]

i don't notice any difference in friction. the wax on the board handles either set up the same. i find that you get better wind protection from the extra rubber but it's also a little less flexible. really though, it's not a big deal either way. so much about wetsuits these days is just trendy stuff. my advice: make sure the seams are taped, the zipper is in the back, and it fits nice and snug with full range of motion for your arms and shoulders.