Neos with an integrated bonnet are the first choice for winter ( HERE for general tips on buying winter neos). Unfortunately, you usually have to dig deep into your pockets for fully-fledged winter models and fork out between 400 and 550 euros.
The XCEL Axis 5/4 Hooded, with an RRP of 359 euros, is intended to be a cheaper alternative. The suit has two smooth-skin panels in the chest and back area, which are designed to reduce wind chill and keep the upper body warm. In the upper body and leg areas, the model is equipped with five millimetres of neoprene. The material on the arms is four millimetres thick and guarantees ideal freedom of movement. On the inside, the XCEL internal "Thermo Lite" lamination is designed to ensure a high level of comfort and good thermal insulation.
The model is available from well-stocked specialist retailers. Further information is also available at https://xcelwetsuits.com/
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.
