In the world of wetsuits, you could be forgiven for thinking that because they all look similar, they must all be the same, but it is important to understand that not all wetsuits are created equally. Gul have been crafting technical water sports apparel for 50 years. The company was founded in 1967 in Cornwall, when keen surfer Dennis Cross set about designing the first purpose-built surfing wetsuit that could withstand the cold conditions of the North Atlantic Ocean. Since then, Gul have gone on to become one of the market leader in wetsuits.

The Viper 4/3 BS Chest Zip Wetsuit is one of their top-end wetsuits and is packed full of useful designs. Starting with the entry, the Viper 4/3 has a Quadrate entry system and a horizontal bib front that contains a micro blackout. It also features a low-profile waterproof chest zip and Glideskin seals to keep water out. The removal of the traditional back zip gives you extra stretch to the back of the suit, and the Snaplock ensures that the zip-pull stays in place. It is constructed from Gul’s X-Flex non-petroleum based Neoprene, which will stretch up to 150%, giving you freedom of movement that is 10% lighter than regular Neoprene. The Viper also absorbs less water than Neoprene and is soft and comfortable on your skin.

The four-way stretch Powertex knee panels allow for even greater movement by stretching out at four different angles whilst withstanding harsh elements for extra durability. The panels are glued, blindstitched and finished off with a 4mm thin liquid silicon based urethane to keep things watertight, which at the same time allows for increased flexibility and reduced friction and pressure points on the skin.

The Aqua Ring wrist seals and Liquid Neoprene S-Seal prevent water from entering the suit by creating abrasion around the arms, whilst the Mesh Back provides wind chill protection by absorbing heat from the sun and helping to prevent evaporative cooling. The Bolt Drying feature is Gul’s exclusive, fastest-drying Neoprene technology with an ultra-quick drying core that wicks away water from the skin and creates a cushion of air between the body and suit, providing excellent insulation and warmth. The Viper 4/3 also features a handy key pocket built into the lower calf with a drain hole and key loop for extra security.

The Gul Viper 4/3 BS Chest Zip wetsuit isn’t mucking around: this technical wetsuit will keep you warm, comfortable and protected even in the toughest of British coastlines. RRP £250

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5 out of 5

Pro

Comfortable

Easy to get in and out of

Super stretchy

Warm

Aqua ring wrist seals

Bolt Dry thermal core

Horizontal chest zip entry

Key pocket