Surfing Waves

I bought a Billabong wetsuit online. Size Small (Billabong's smallest size). I'm 150lbs and their size chart says size Small is for people up to 150lbs. Everything fits very tight except for under the armpits where there is a bulge. You can see the neoprene protruding on both the front and back. I have a smaller than average chest (35") but I have an Oneill Small wetsuit and the bulge is minimal compared to the Billabong. Should I return the Billabong wetsuit or keep it?

Attached are the pictures of 3 different wetsuits. Thanks!

This pic is from the Billabong wetsuit. Above are Billabong and Oneill pics.

It's rare to fit a wetsuit that fits perfectly. Believe me, I tried at least 8 different ones! Unless they are tailored made, then it isn't going to fit perfectly. If water won't get in, then I'd say it is fine.

As BaNZ says, all wetsuits have different 'cuts', different fittings and fit different bodies. Some are smaller in the chest, some in the thighs etc. I can wear Xcel but O'Neill I can barely get on, even though their measurements claim both should fit me. Sounds like Oneill fits you but Billabong doesnt

So wear the one that is the most comfortable. Its not a flaw with the wetsuit, its just a different cut that doesnt suit you. If you dont find it comfortable, then return it. If you are ok with it, keep it.

I won´t be able to return it once I use it but I don´t think I will find the Billabong unconfortable. The only thing that concerns me is if too much water gets it but I guess that in the armpits it will be kind of loose for any person. If it were too tight it wouldn´t allow movement. What is the worse thing that could happen? A little more water would get into that area?

They tend to loosen up the more you use it. So if you're worried about that, I would suggest you to return it. Water normally doesn't get trapped in the armpit area. It will normally drain down to your waist due to gravity.

Yes you also want the flexibility around your shoulder area to give you the paddle movement you need.

How often will you arm be in that position when you are actually surfing ? The "cut" is made for optimum flexibility in the most common position you'll be in surfing, not standing in front of a mirror. Try mimicking a paddle stroke or laying on a table, I'll bet that gap disappears. I once had a custom racing leathers made for me. When i went to the factory to try it on, I complained the butt was baggy. The staff told me to get in your racing/seated position. Butt baggynesh gone.