Patagonia consistently favours the use of natural rubber and recycled components. The stated 5mm neoprene thickness is definitely an understatement, the R4 is significantly thicker. The entry is rather tight and somewhat stiff, but once inside, the feet are caressed by soft, cosy plush. The webbing looks absolutely high quality, the seams are perfectly sealed and don't let any cold water through, even under tension.
Technical data:
- Neoprene thickness: 5 mm
- Sizes: 5/6/7/8/9/10/11/12/13
- Price: 85,00 Euro
- Info: To the website
Conclusion:
In terms of thermal insulation, the Patagonia is the benchmark, the comfort range only ends at around 2-4 degrees water temperature. If that's not enough, you can upgrade to the R5 model with 7mm and should then be ready for the next ice age.
Very warm; good features; brand philosophy
Fit slightly narrower
Entry a little stiff
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf
Manuel Vogel, born in 1981, lives in Kiel and learned to windsurf at the age of six at his father's surf school. In 1997, he completed his training as a windsurfing instructor and worked for over 15 years as a windsurfing instructor in various centers, at Kiel University sports and in the coaching team of the “Young Guns” freestyle camps. He has been part of the surf test team since 2003. After completing his teaching degree in 2013, he followed his heart and started as editor of surf magazine for the test and riding technique sections. Since 2021, he has also been active in wingfoiling - mainly at his home spots on the Baltic Sea or in the waves of Denmark.
