Women's winter neo: ProLimit Oxygen Steamer Hooded 6/4 Thermal Rebound FTM on test:
Stephan Gölnitz
· 31.01.2023
With six millimetres on the torso, the Prolimit Oxygen offers the standard dimensions for thick winter neos. We tested the model last winter and the wetsuit is still in the range. Compared to five other wetsuits, none of them are as quick and easy to put on as this model. The material is extremely stretchy and the "access hatch" is generously wide open. We have also tested the effect this has during washing (see below). For our testers (165 cm, 58 kilos), the manufacturer's recommendation was a size 36, whereas most other brands supplied their models in a size 38. For Prolimit at least, this turned out to be a perfect fit, as this very stretchy wetsuit can and should be chosen a little tighter when trying it on for the first time. The hood is also cut quite tight, but closes well, the neck collar is quite short, which is still somewhat noticeable in the dressing room during the "owl test", but then no longer on the water.
The perceived freedom of movement was therefore outstandingly good and the flexibility was at the highest level. Even the slightly shorter collar was not noticeable on the water. In addition to being very easy to get on and off, the "Oxygen" impressed with hardly any noticeable restriction of movement on land and on the water.
Very comfortable and warm when surfing - with a little more water ingress when washed properly
As quickly as you slip into the Prolimit, you immediately feel comfortable in it. The wetsuit follows your every move and the material is the most elastic in the test. The wetsuit fits snugly without creases and seals the face perfectly.
The lining - at least the extra warm one - is concentrated in the important areas and the material thickness on the sleeves and shoulders is slightly less than in other models with the same specification. Nevertheless, the Prolimit offers very good thermal performance in "normal" winter conditions, but when it gets below five degrees, there are one or two warmer models. Especially those who spend more time in the water will feel a little more water ingress at the neck. For freeriders who only go into the water briefly - if at all - this is certainly not the hard currency, but for wave surfers it may be an issue, at least in very cold water. The drainage holes on the legs also felt a slight amount of water ingress at first, but this shouldn't play a major role when the water temperature reaches nine or ten degrees.
Prolimit Oxygen Steamer Hooded 6/4 Thermal Rebound FTM - the conclusion:
The Prolimit Oxygen is a maximally comfortable and elasticated wetsuit that should take away anyone's fear of front entry. The thermal insulation when surfing is very good, only in the water could the seal be a little better - which in turn could reduce the outstanding comfort of this wetsuit. For temperatures from five degrees in the air and eight degrees in the water, the Prolimit Oxygen is definitely very suitable and the best alternative for previous front zip refusers!
Wearing comfort and very easy entry/exit for a front zip wetsuit
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Slightly more water ingress at the chest-neck finish during wash cycles
Rating Prolimit Oxygen Steamer Hooded 6/4 Thermal Rebound FTM:
Technical data:
- Test model: Prolimit Oxygen Steamer Hooded 6/4 Thermal REbound FTM (size 36)
- Thickness: 6/4mm
- Available sizes: 34/36/38/40/42/44
- Price: 479 Euro >> available here
