The guide is designed to help you choose the right MANERA wetsuit. Below, you’ll find an overview of each wetsuit line, a breakdown of wetsuit thickness by water temperature, size chart, and a detailed FAQ - or, if you’re ready, you can shop all suits here.
A GUIDE TO EACH LINE OF MANERA WETSUITS
MANERA'S PRIMARY WETSUIT LINES
CLASSIC
The CLASSIC line is all about straightforward performance, reliable warmth, and everyday comfort - without the premium price tag. Built with MANERA’s signature 3D fit, C-FOAM limestone neoprene, and XTEND fleece lining, it delivers the fit and feel the brand is known for in a clean, no-nonsense build. It’s the go-to option for surfers who want a dependable suit for regular sessions or an easy addition to their rotation. If you’re looking for solid materials, a great fit, and honest pricing, CLASSIC is it.
Price: $279 – $299~
Gender: Available in only Men's sizes
Thickness: Offered in 3/2mm and 4/3mm options
Shop the CLASSIC →
SEAFARER
The SEAFARER has evolved into MANERA’s go-to mid-tier wetsuit - stepping up in quality while still focusing on what matters most: warmth, comfort, and durability. Built with MANERA’s trusted 3D fit and proven construction, it delivers consistent performance without unnecessary extras.
With updated materials and a higher overall build quality, the SEAFARER now sits above true entry-level suits while staying relatively accessible for the value. It’s a reliable, everyday wetsuit that holds up session after session and feels good in the water.
If you’re looking for a straightforward, dependable suit with a bit more performance and longevity built in, this is the one.
Price: $330 – $399 ~
Gender: Available in Men’s & Women’s sizes
Thickness: Offered in multiple cuts, from 2 mm spring suits to 4/3 hooded suits
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XTEND
The XTEND is built for performance and flexibility, delivering a premium, unrestricted feel in the water. Its lightweight X10D fleece interior provides solid thermal protection while keeping the suit exceptionally stretchy and comfortable. Designed for surfers who prioritize freedom of movement, this line is ideal for high-performance surfing or anyone who wants a suit that feels light and responsive. Warmth is dependable, but flex is where the X10D truly stands out.
Price: $439 – $509~
Gender: Available only in Men’s sizes
Thickness: 3/2, 4/3, and 5/4/3 mm, with hooded options available
MAGMA
The MAGMA line is built for cold and windy winter sessions, delivering serious warmth when you need it most. Its MAGMA+ fleece lining works as both an insulator and heat generator, drying 30% faster than traditional linings to keep you warmer for longer. This is Manera’s warmest wetsuit line — designed to handle the harshest conditions without sacrificing comfort or performance. If you’re chasing winter swells, MAGMA is the suit you want on your side.
Price: $559 – $589~
Gender: Available in Men’s & Women’s sizes
Thickness: Offered in multiple cold-water cuts from 4/3 to 6/4mm, including hooded options
ALT
The ALT (short for Alternative) line combines eco-friendly materials with Manera’s top-tier performance. Made with 100% natural Yulex rubber and recycled jerseys, it’s crafted using sustainable processes without compromising warmth or flexibility. Performance is comparable to the MAGMA line, making it a solid choice for cold-water surfers who want both high function and a lower environmental impact. If you’re looking for a premium suit that performs while treading lighter on the planet, ALT is it.
Price: $629 - $649~ (currently on sale)
Gender: Available in both Men’s & Women’s sizes
Thickness: Offered in 4/3 and 5/4/3mm
WATER TEMPERATURE & WETSUIT THICKNESS
The guidance below reflects our shop’s preferences, based on 20+ years of surfing in Southern California. Everyone runs different - depending on cold tolerance, wind, and session length, you may prefer more or less rubber. These recommendations are specific to MANERA wetsuits, which tend to run warm.
In Southern California, water temperatures typically range from the low–mid 70s in summer to the mid-50s in winter.
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3/2mm - The Everyday Suit
For most of the year, a 3/2mm is our go-to. We usually wear one from early October through December, then again from late March into early summer. If you only own one wetsuit in Southern California, this is it.
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4/3mm+ - Coldest Months
When water temps drop into the mid-50s after December, we move to a 4/3mm. In January and February, we’ll add booties, a hood, or gloves as needed, aiming to wear as little rubber as possible while staying comfortable. Anything colder and your looking at 5/4mm+.
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Spring Suits (2mm) - Warm Water
As the water warms in late spring and early summer, we switch to 2mm spring suits with short arms, short legs, or both. These offer more flexibility while still providing light insulation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT WETSUITS
WETSUIT FAQ
When should I buy a higher-end wetsuit vs. a more affordable one?
If you’re in the ocean more than once a week and can properly care for your wetsuit, a higher-end suit is usually worth it. Premium suits often offer better flexibility, which helps with paddling and faster pop-ups, or greater warmth, which lets you stay in the water longer - sometimes both.
How should a wetsuit fit?
A wetsuit should fit snug with no loose pockets, especially through the lower back and shoulders. It may feel tight on land, but it should loosen slightly once in the water without restricting breathing or movement. MANERA suits are designed to after 2–3 surfs, breaking in to become some of the most comfortable wetsuits over time.
How can I make my wetsuit last longer?
Change on a mat or soft surface rather than directly on the ground - seams can easily snag on rough or jagged areas. Rinse with fresh water after every session, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and hang the suit to dry inside-out first, then right-side-out. Proper care helps preserve warmth, stretch, and overall lifespan.
How do I choose the right wetsuit thickness?
Thickness is primarily determined by water temperature, but wind, session length, and personal cold tolerance all matter. Use the thickness guide above as a starting point, then adjust based on how you actually feel in the water. Reference ourf guide above on thickness for Socal water temps.
WETSUIT SIZE CHART
Choose a snug fit - the suit will relax after 2–3 sessions and settle into an optimal fit.
