Top Short Sleeve Wetsuit 2024

Wetsuits are generally designed to protect and insulate the body when in the water. However, not all types may suit all kinds of water conditions. Remember that water can also be warmer, especially in tropical locations. Instead of the common full wetsuits, short-sleeved wetsuits would be better for such situations. But, they can be more challenging to find as the other types are more popular in the market. 

This article lists the best short sleeves on the market. Use this comprehensive selection to pick the right short-sleeve wetsuit for your needs. Learn and weigh their features to comfortably spend more time in the water.

7 Best Short Sleeve Wetsuits For Your Water Activities

1. O'Neill Reactor II 2mm Short Sleeve Back Zip Spring Wetsuit

The Reactor II S/S Spring Wetsuit is made by one of the most trusted brands in the market—O'Neill. It offers some solid features, especially its well-placed seams that keep you warm without suffocating you in neoprene. Plus, it's made with quality limestone-based neoprene. This means the wetsuit is pliable and soft to the touch, making it flexible. 

Aside from being constructed from a durable material, the Reactor II also has durable seams and flexible flatlock stitches. Most importantly, it has a robust back zip entry that makes it easy to enter and exit. With this suit, you can easily enjoy the waters anytime. 

Specifications:

• Thickness: 2 mm
• Legs Length: Short
• Entry: Back Zipper

Things We Like

• Affordable price tag
• Ideal for surfing because of the back zipper
• Available for both men and women
• Smooth skin panels on the chest and back for windier locations

Things to Consider

• Shorts may ride up 

2. NeoSport 3mm Women's Shorty Wetsuit

If you're looking for the best wetsuit specifically designed for women, go for the NeoSport 3mm Women's Wetsuit. It's popular among women because it's anatomically cut for women. This ensures that you can wear it with every part comfortably fitting your body, keeping your core warm while you're in the water. 

Another great feature of this wetsuit is its seams. The NeoSport 3mm Wetsuit has flatlock seams that add strength to the stitching and overall construction. This design helps prevent chafing when paddling. It also has an adjustable collar that prevents water from entering the suit. 

Specifications:

• Thickness: 3 mm
• Legs Length: Short
• Entry: Back Zipper

Things We Like: 

• Affordable price tag
• Ideal for surfing because it prevents chafing
• Comes in versions for men as well
• Available in different colors

Things to Consider: 

• Thickness may be too thick for more tropical locations and some users

3. O'Neill HyperFreak 2mm Short Sleeve Chest Zip Wetsuit

If you don’t want shorts, you can get full-length legs for better protection with the O'Neill HyperFreak S/S Wetsuit. It’s known for its flexibility and comfort despite having a full-length leg design. This is possible because of its flexible and ergonomic neoprene materials—TB3 and TB3X neoprene. These make the suit stretchable and lighter, making it easier to move while in the water. 

The HyperFreak long-leg design can protect you better in the water, whether it's against the sun or the corals and sea creatures. Plus, this should be your top option if you prefer wearing something other than shorts. Most importantly, this suit has a chest zip entry that helps minimize flushing. 

Specifications:

• Thickness: 2 mm
• Legs Length: Full-length
• Entry: Chest Zipper

Things We Like: 

• Eco-friendly materials
• Minimal seam design
• 360° Anti-flush barrier with drain holes
• Allows more agility in the water
• Available in different colors

Things to Consider: 

• Higher-priced than the previous wetsuits 

4. Barefoot Iron Short Sleeve Wetsuit

The Barefoot Iron Short Sleeve Wetsuit is a completely distinct variety of short-sleeved wetsuit. Unlike most that have back zippers or chest ones, this Iron Short Sleeve Suit has a front zipper. This makes it easy to get into and out of. It’s also comfortable even when you’re paddling while on a surfboard. This is because the suit has a double thick flotation padding that makes it easy to glide and move. 

But most importantly, this suit is made of two layers of material: neoprene and foam flotation padding. They're especially noticeable in the chest, hamstrings, butt, ribs, hips, and back. Note that these two layers combined offer twice the protection you'll get from other suits. 

Specifications:

• Thickness: 3 mm (Neoprene material)
• Legs Length: Short
• Entry: Front Zipper

Things We Like: 

• Double stitched seams
• Conforms to the body after a few uses
• Offers maximum durability and protection
• Can be used by both men and women

Things to Consider: 

• On the expensive side

5. Cressi Tortuga 2.5mm Men's Shorty Wetsuit

Stylish is one way to describe the Cressi Tortuga. Aside from being specifically designed to be used in tropical waters, this wetsuit has a great design that features smooth lines that help define and highlight your build and body when worn. Plus, because of its thickness, the suit is light and easy to get on and take off. Most importantly, it's flexible to use, and its hook-and-loop fastening collar is high for extra comfort and protection. 

Specifications:

• Thickness: 2.5 mm
• Legs Length: Short
• Entry: Back Zipper

Things We Like: 

• Zipper design prevents chafing
• Suitable for many kinds of water activities
• Affordable price tag
• Stylish red seams
• Neck closure for a custom and secure fit
• Durable YKK zipper

Things to Consider: 

• Getting the right size may be tricky

6. Rip Curl E-Bomb Pro 2/2 Short Sleeve Zip Free Spring Wetsuit

If you don't like the feeling of zippers in your wetsuit, you can go for the zip-free Rip Curl E-Bomb Pro 2/2 Wetsuit. It's one of the most flexible and high-performing suits of the brand. Its main benefit comes from the range of motion and movement from having no zippers. The suit has larger neoprene panels, making it more flexible and fitting. Aside from that, this wetsuit also has a soft and comfortable thermal lining that can keep you warm for a long time in the water. 

Specifications:

• Thickness: 2 mm
• Legs Length: Short
• Entry: No Zipper

Things We Like: 

• 100% E6 Neoprene which is more durable
• Internally taped seams for better seal
• Also available in other cut options
• Glide skin collar
• External key pocket
• Affordable price tag

Things to Consider: 

• Zip-free design can be more challenging to get into

7. Body Glove Pro 3

Get the Body Glove Pro 3 Wetsuit if you're on a tight budget. It offers great value for its price tag and it comes from a reputable brand. This suit provides insulation and comfort so you can enjoy your time in the water longer. It comes in an excellent design that you can get in two different colors. It's one of the best wetsuits you can get in the market for the same price. 

Specifications:

• Thickness: 2.2 mm
• Legs Length: Short
• Entry: Back Zipper

Things We Like: 

• Ideal for a wide range of water activities
• Designed to minimize wind chill
• Flatlock stitching prevents rash
• Anatomic design
• Easy to get on and take off

Things to Consider: 

• May leak a little through the back zipper

Conclusion

A short sleeve wetsuit offers better flexibility and comfort in warmer waters. Most of the time, you can also use it for a wide range of activities, like surfing, diving, snorkeling, and more. When choosing the right option, make sure to think about your needs, preferences, and budget. This will help you pinpoint the best wetsuit to get. If you’d like to check out some other options, you can also visit our wetsuit collection!