Rip Curl's Dawn Patrol 3/2mm chest zip steamer in their blue retro colourway is a nod to the wetsuit styles of the 90s, but there's nothing retro about this wetsuit's performance and feel. A part of their core wetsuit range it includes features used throughout their ultimate range. Super flexible E5 neoprene means less restrictive paddling and surfing. The E5 internal taping of critical seam points gives the wetsuit added durability but is flexible enough not to hinder the suit's stretch. One of the best parts about flexible neoprene in a kid's wetsuit is that there's more room for growth. You'll find the neoprene will stretch gradually over time, so you won't be coming back mid-season for the next size.

Why opt for chest zip?

One basic thing we can assume about a zipper is that it doesn't stretch. The zipper of a wetsuit limits the stretch of its surrounding panels in all directions. Your basic back zip entry wetsuit might be easy to get in and out of, but when you're bending and paddling there's not one large stretchy piece of neoprene to work with. A chest zip entry largely avoids this issue, placed in a low-stress area. The pullover collar design of a chest zip also means there's a singular well-sealed panel of neoprene sealing against your neck. It's not just more comfortable, but more effective at preventing water flushing.

A hydro-loc collar and glued and blind stitched seams contribute to the Dawn Patrol's overall warmth by sealing against water leaks. Obviously, openings at the collar, wrists and ankles are easier entry points for water so the hydro-loc collar is a great way to minimise water flushing. Seams are arguably just as important. They cover the whole wetsuit and if their design is poor, you're cold. Glued and blind stitched seams use a stitching style that doesn't completely penetrate the neoprene, while the glue helps bind the neoprene panels and prevents water entry.