The XCEL Comp+ 4/3mm will not spend a long time dusty in the cellar with year-round surfers, as the wetsuit proved to be a blessing both on a cool, rainy late summer morning and during a short, mild winter session. Provided you like surfing with a closed bonnet, because the alternative on these days is obviously to always combine a "normal" 4/3 with a cap, headband, earplugs etc.. However, the tight, integrated bonnet of the Comp+ can provide that little bit extra, especially on days with cool water and mild outside temperatures (as is often the case in spring), to be able to use such a thin, flexible wetsuit without your breath catching in the wash. These are the days when the winter neo almost makes your head burst when you exert yourself, whereas the summer neo makes your neck freeze every time you fall.
As little restriction as wearing board shorts at 30 degrees."
Entry is via a relatively narrow front zip which, together with the generous overlap of the skirt and elasticated waistband, ensures excellent waterproofing. The rubberised cuffs on the arms and legs also seal tightly, so that direct water ingress is limited to a few droplets. You can enjoy the soft, flexible material as soon as you pull up your legs. The XCEL Comp+ is no less cosy than a pair of pyjamas and is one of the most comfortable neos on the market. The area from the shoulder to the back of the knee consists of one large panel so that there is no irritating seam in the way when bending forwards or stretching. Your freedom of movement is just as unrestricted as it is in a pair of board shorts at 30 degrees. You can get into any yoga pose in the Comp+, it's that flexible.
More neoprene tests:
The perfect neo for cold spring days and mild winters
The feel-good temperature is somewhere between twelve and 16 degrees, but this 4/3, for example, still performed very well on an icy cold autumn morning when it was around seven degrees and the water was warm (approx. 15 degrees). And it also worked the other way round on a mild December day. Only when the water and outside temperature drop below ten degrees does it definitely start to get cold - then even 1-a-tightness and a bonnet won't help.
The simple bonnet without visor is rather small, closes well around the face and can be pulled as tight as you like using the cord. However, the ribbon should be stowed inside the bonnet after tightening, as it is a little long and can get caught in the eye if you move quickly.
Overall, the Neo should be selected one size too small rather than too large, as it is so flexible and experience has shown that the very soft material can also give way a little over time. This neo really needs to be skin-tight in order to realise its full potential. If it doesn't fit like a second skin, especially in the chest or back area, the comfort temperature will quickly rise by three to five degrees.
Surf summary of the XCEL Comp+ 4/3mm
If you like to step on the gas on the water and don't think much of annoying accessories, but are simply looking for a sporty, flexible, tight transitional neo, then the 4/3mm Comp+ from XCEL is just right for you. For 400 euros, you get a real premium neo in nine sizes from S to XL, which is regularly used in our climes. It is not without reason that Germany is often referred to as the country of the transition jacket.
Info under xcelwetsuits.eu
