Surfing Waves

You are sufing cold water (42-45 degrees) in a new 5/4 high end wetsuit and need a hood so you are buying a hooded sleeveless vest.



You can

A. buy a 0.5mm neoprene vest which adds bulk and feels bulky but is much warmer.

B. Or a very thin, very stretchy and flexible polypro vest which also has a hood, but adds only a tiny bit warmth to the core.

Whats it gonna be?

Good timing for the post. I just today took out my hooded vest from storage. I've had both the FCS and Bodyglove brands. Both have the silver or titanium lining which is thin but very warm. In Japan, they used have this lining called SCS which was similar, like over 15 years ago. The added benefit is it's "slick" and lets you move around in it.
That is why I don't like the Polypro versions, since it's a bit scratchy feeling. Plus unless you get it wet first, you can get a rash ( especially around the neck ).

The one benefit of the FCS over the Bodyglove is that it has a "gator" for the neck, that helps prevent flushing.

I use this. It is a long sleeve, but it's basically a compression shirt with a neoprene hood. It works for me in Santa Cruz water temps.

https://www.evo.com/wetsuits/xcel-celli ... gI_4vD_BwE