Fourth Element Surface Fit and Style
Straight out of the box, I loved the look of the Fourth Element Surface wetsuit. Wearing it, I loved the look and the feel of the suit, both on the surface and underwater—but in between those two points, I questioned why this wetsuit was trying to strangle me as I struggled to get in and out of the restrictive shoulders and tight over-the-head flap. We came to an understanding fairly quickly though, and it gave me a sleek and dexterous diving experience.
Chest Zip: Pros and Cons
So let’s get to the sticky bit first. This wetsuit features a chest entry and mini-zip across the front panel with durable YKK zipper, fastener, and toggle for a nuanced custom fit.
For those of us who aren’t used to this type of wetsuit, the widened neck entry point requires a bit of shimmying over hips and shoulders, followed by pulling the final flap over the head for a tight slide through the head hole, which creates a snug seal around the neck. Now you can zip.
For me and my primary dive style, donning wetsuits for repetitive dives onboard a vessel (particularly if that vessel is rocking in high seas) takes enough pulling and peeling without the added effort of not having a full zipper.
However, I did find the process became easier after a few times taking the suit on and off, so give the learning curve a little time if you haven’t used this type of entry and zip before.
This wetsuit is likely named the “Surface” for a reason though. I would not hesitate to pull this suit on and off for a shore dive or other topside sports. And it certainly does achieve a watertight fit and a wide radius of mobility capable of more than a slow-paced scuba dive.
Comfort and Fit
Once on, I enjoyed the feel of a good fit with just the level of snugness I want in a wetsuit, melding to my body in a nice hug. A large range of size options lets you customize to more precise measurements (Small Short for me), making sure that a good fit is there for everyone.
There was no gapping at any seal point, which is not always the easiest find for wrists like mine or around the neck, which is where that chest zip comes in handy. Added inner rubber strips at the wrists and ankles made sure that seal stayed put when in motion as well. I experienced flawless mobility and stretch and no leakage during my dives, just a warm and trim swim under the surface. Diving in this suit was absolutely enjoyable.
On top of all that, beautiful coloration and style make this wetsuit stand out. And looking good adds to my feeling good, not gonna lie.
Sustainable Materials
The “Ocean Positive” philosophy at Fourth Element strives to reduce the use of plastics and emphasizes products and packaging that are better for the ocean environment. The Surface, in particular, uses materials that are grown and recycled, which is something I aim to prioritize as a diver, so I can better prevent degradation and debris in the ocean I love and enjoy.
The alternative neoprene used, Yulex Pure, holds to the highest standards of reducing environmental impact and is the newest wave in wetsuit sustainability. It is made from biodegradable, plant-based material from rubber trees certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, and produces a clean, elastic product for both you (99.9% of natural impurities removed during rubber processing) and for the planet (substantially reduces the carbon footprint of production compared to neoprene).
Yulex does not compromise on performance either, with at least equal (better according to most reviews) durability, warmth, stretch, fit, and flexibility than conventional neoprene.
The inner and outer polyester linings are made from recycled, post-consumer plastic bottles, and designs are created using non-toxic, water-based inks and embossing. The seams are sealed using water-based glue and blind-stitched for stretch and durability.
Price/Quality Ratio
With the rigorous quality and environmental standards that Fourth Element adheres to, the Surface is not a budget wetsuit, but those are features that I would happily pay a bit more for.
This wetsuit does not slack on performance, fit, or style, and the ability to subtract ocean-bound plastic from the environment, rather than add to it, makes this a high-quality choice worth the price if it’s within your budget range.
The Surface is, however, one of the more affordable wetsuits offered by Fourth Element, making their quality products a little more accessible. Other brands have started offering sustainable Yulex wetsuits as well, including the ScubaPro Everflex Yulex Dive Steamer and the Aqualung XSCAPE, which mostly fall at a similar or higher price point.
Check out our full guide for further recommendations on finding the right wetsuit for you, along with any other dive gear you may need.
Do we recommend the Fourth Element Surface wetsuit?
Given the excellent performance, comfort, and standards for materials and construction, the Fourth Element Surface suit gets our recommendation.
After quickly overcoming initial struggles with the chest-zip entry, I don’t consider this design a net negative for the suit, but I do think it is most appropriate for a dive style that doesn’t require the wearer to constantly get in and out of a wetsuit throughout a day.
Those looking for a multi-use wetsuit, though, might have found the perfect match. This would be a great wetsuit for any casual boat diving, shore diving, freediving, surfing, paddleboarding, or other water sports where you could use a little extra warmth and protection.
Specs & Features
| Material | Yulex Pure and recycled polyester linings |
|---|---|
| Thickness | 4/3mm |
| Zip | Chest-entry with mini-zip |
| Seams | Water-based glue and blind-stitched |
| Sizes | XXS–XL with tall and short options |
Take a moment to look at this.
