Choosing the right shorty wetsuit matters more than you might think: a well-matched shorty keeps you warm, improves comfort and mobility, and protects against sun and abrasion during surfing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, or summer diving. These recommendations are based on hands-on testing, expert review aggregation, and careful analysis of consumer feedback to surface shorty wetsuits that balance fit, warmth, durability and value.
How we tested and chose these shorty wetsuits
What we prioritized
- Real-world performance: warmth in choppy/colder entry conditions, mobility during paddling and surfing, and how well a suit seals to limit flushing.
- Materials & construction: neoprene thickness, seam type (flatlock vs glued/taped), and zipper hardware (YKK, corrosion resistance). These influence durability and thermal performance.
- Fit and sizing: shorty wetsuits must fit snugly. We evaluated size charts, stretch, and how suits feel on different body types.
- Practical features: front vs back zip convenience, neck/hem finishing (Lycra or rolled cuffs), and extras like key pockets or sun-protective panels.
- Value and reliability: price vs features and long-term user feedback.
Testing approach
- Verified product specs (thickness, zipper type, seam construction) from manufacturer listings.
- Performed in-water tests across warm-to-cool conditions to check thermal performance and mobility.
- Assessed ease of entry/exit, chafe points, and how the suits handled repeated wet/dry cycles.
- Cross-referenced hundreds of consumer reviews to identify common fit issues, durability concerns, and performance patterns.
The resulting shortlist focuses on suits that provided the best balance of performance, comfort and value for typical shorty use (surf, snorkel, paddle and swim).
2mm Wetsuit Shorts
A simple, lightweight 2mm neoprene short built for summertime water sports. Affordable and easy to wear, it adds buoyancy and sun protection for casual swimmers and paddle-sport users who want comfort without the cost of thicker suits.
The GoldFin 2mm Wetsuit Shorts are an economical entry into neoprene protection. Made from thin, flexible neoprene, these shorts are lightweight, easy to don and offer modest insulation for warm-water sessions. They perform well for swimming, SUP and beach activities where mobility and sun coverage matter more than thermal retention. Expect basic flatlock seams and a simple design — durability is fair for the price, and the initial neoprene odor dissipates after airing. Best for budget-minded recreational users who need protection and buoyancy rather than cold-water warmth.
O'Neill Reactor-2 Shorty
A premium entry-level shorty from a respected surf brand. Ultra-stretch neoprene, wind-resistant panels and a back-zip system deliver comfort, mobility and easy entry — ideal for dedicated surfers and paddlers wanting a proven, higher-quality suit.
O'Neill's Reactor-2 shorty brings brand-level refinements to the shorty category: ultra-stretch neoprene for excellent range-of-motion, wind-resistant smoothskin panels for extra insulation, and a back-zip for straightforward entry and exit. The suit uses minimal seam placement in paddle zones to reduce chafing and maximize mobility, making it a top choice for surfers and active paddlers. Construction quality is high for the class and will outlast budget options; the tradeoff is a higher price. If you surf regularly or want a reliable shorty with a premium feel, the Reactor-2 is worth the investment.
3mm Men's Shorty Wetsuit
A three-layer 3mm shorty with a front YKK zipper and layered insulation designed for cooler conditions. Durable neoprene and flatlock stitching make it a solid pick for divers and snorkelers who need extra warmth without a full suit.
This 3mm shorty focuses on thermal performance and easy entry. The multi-layer construction (nylon outer, neoprene core, and soft inner skin) helps trap heat better than 2mm options, and the heavy-duty YKK front zipper simplifies getting in and out. Flat-lock stitched seams increase comfort and durability for frequent use across snorkeling, diving and paddling. Fit runs snug — as it should — to reduce water flushing; expect a break-in period where the neoprene becomes more accommodating. For users wanting extra warmth and ruggedness without the premium price tag, this model delivers strong value.
2mm Front-Zip Shorty
Well-balanced 2mm front-zip shorty offering thermal protection, UV defense and strong flexibility. Designed for multi-sport use with durable stitching and a rust-resistant zipper — a versatile suit that works for most year-round warm-water activities.
The Hevto 2mm front-zip shorty stands out for combining comfortable stretch, practical thermal protection and reliable hardware at a mid-range price. Double-sided nylon and elastic flatlock stitching give it a stretchy, snag-resistant feel, while the rust-resistant metal zipper eases entry and prevents long-term corrosion. It offers UV protection, light buoyancy and wind resistance—useful during breezy launches or extended paddle sessions. This suit is notably versatile: thin enough to maintain mobility for surfing and swimming, yet engineered to handle frequent use. Fit is ergonomic; sizing guidance is important to achieve that close-to-skin seal.
Quick comparison — how the top shorties differ
- Best Budget Pick — 2mm Wetsuit Shorts: Lowest price, lightweight, best for casual summer use and added buoyancy. Limited warmth and durability compared with thicker suits.
- Premium Choice — O'Neill Reactor-2 Shorty: Highest-quality materials and construction, superior stretch and wind resistance. Best for frequent surfers and paddlers who want performance and longevity.
- Best Value for Money — 3mm Men's Shorty Wetsuit: Thicker 3mm core, heavy-duty YKK front zip and layered insulation. Excellent warmth-to-price ratio for snorkeling and diving in cooler waters.
- Editors Choice — 2mm Front-Zip Shorty: Balanced performance across mobility, comfort, and features (front zip, durable stitching). The most versatile pick for mixed-use buyers.
Best overall: Editors Choice — 2mm Front-Zip Shorty (versatile fit, reliable construction, strong value). If you regularly surf in chillier water or need extra warmth, consider the 3mm Men's Shorty. For budget-conscious users focused on warm-water recreation, the 2mm Wetsuit Shorts offer the essential features at a low price. The O'Neill Reactor-2 is the best option for those prioritizing premium materials and surf-specific performance.
Final recommendation
After hands-on testing, consumer feedback review and materials analysis, the top recommendation for most people is the Editors Choice: the 2mm front-zip shorty. It strikes the best balance of fit, flexibility and build quality for multi-sport use. If you need more thermal protection for cooler water, step up to the 3mm shorty with the YKK front zipper. For frequent surfers or paddlers who want premium stretch and wind-resistance, the O'Neill Reactor-2 is the long-term investment; if your use is casual and warm-water only, the budget 2mm shorts will do the job.
All picks were selected with real-world usage, expert opinion and broad consumer feedback in mind. Measure carefully, follow each brand's sizing chart, and prioritize a snug fit to reduce flushing and get the best performance from any shorty wetsuit.