Winterneo 2025: Warm & stretchy - testing the new ProLimit Mercury Hooded 6/4

The winter model from ProLimit goes by the somewhat unwieldy name of Mercury Steamer Free-X 6/4 Hooded and compared to the previous version (HERE is a test) some important details have been revised.

New features, less water ingress

For example, the entry area of the 2025 model has been adapted to minimise water ingress at this point. The collar now overlaps significantly more with the material underneath in this area. This means that you now have to use a little more force than before when putting on the jacket in the shoulder area, but the overall level of comfort is still good. This is also due to the fact that the Winterneo also offers enough stretch at the cuffs of the arms and legs. We would describe the fit as "normal", i.e. neither particularly generous nor noticeably tight. It should also be mentioned that the wetsuit is now made from a Natureprene 2 This means that no petrochemical substances are used and only natural rubber is used.

Once inside, the ProLimit Mercury Hooded 6/4 feels like a second skin, the materials used are wonderfully cosy and adapt perfectly to the contours of the body. The bonnet has also been given an upgrade: the inside is now lined with the same plush as the upper body and thighs. Despite all the adjustments, the wetsuit has been slightly reduced in price - the model costs 499 euros.

In practical tests on the water, the changes had an immediate effect. Particularly in the event of falls or skidding in the surf, noticeably less water penetrates the collar area than before - this improves thermal insulation on cold days. If water does spill under the collar, it can drain away through small holes at the bottom of the skirt and over the leg cuffs. Until a few years ago, the head area was still a weak point of the Neo due to the thinner bonnet, but the Mercury Hooded has long been on a par with the top models in this area too (HERE you can find an overview of numerous winter neos). The thickly dimensioned bonnet fits comfortably, is pleasantly soft on the inside and offers enough freedom of movement in the neck area to be able to turn your head in a relaxed manner. The edges around the face are also very cosy. If you're looking for the fly in the ointment, you'll only end up with the drawstring in the chest area - this could be a little stronger so that the area to the side of the zip can be tightened and closed even better.

ProLimit Mercury Hooded 6/4 - the conclusion

The ProLimit Mercury Hooded 6/4 has been sensibly developed further and has finally arrived in the top league of winter neos. Wearing comfort, stretch and thermal insulation are at a very high level, and we would place the comfort range at two to ten degrees.

Stretch, wearing comfort

Drawstring in the chest area

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Valuation

Technical data

• Test model: ProLimit Mercury Steamer Free-X Hooded 6/4 (size XL)
• Thickness: 6/4mm
• Available sizes: S/M/L/XL/XXL
• Price: 499 Euro

You can find the complete test with many other winterneo models here

More on the topic:

• Winterneos 2023: Winter wetsuits for women put to the test
• Winter surfing: How to find the right wetsuit
• The best tips for windsurfing in winter
• The 8 best surf shoes for winter
• The best winter accessories for windsurfers