Looking at getting a new 3/2 steamer for winter.
Most people will say that l don't need one since I live in QLD but lower back issues mean I need to keep old muscles as warm as possible
It seems that the expensive/ flexible wetsuits are great but don't last long
I've just used cheap wetsuits in the past and suffered last winter with my lower back seizing up
I'm after a good warm wetsuit that will last and would appreciate any advice

If you can afford it the Patagonia are still the best for warmth and wear... Some of the others are better for flex...

The needs essentials are really great value, warm and well made with decent flex. very good support if you have issues. Can't speak for durability though as mines only 6mnths old but looks promising.

My winter suit is a 5/4 Vissla was real cheap and has been really good, it's 3rd season coming up and it's still perfect... They are poor for flex but really warm and built like a tank... Would happily buy another.

I have mates who like the Needs wetties. Personally, after getting end of season "bargains" a few times (rip curl mainly) I have returned to O'Neil. They are warm and last three years for me. I wear a 3/2 pretty much all year round with the springie only getting dusted off for midday surfs in autumn. O'neil Psycho - great flexibility and warm as.

Hey Kev,

I have a large 3/2 Need literally worn 3 times for sale. Message me if you are interested.

I can vouch for the Need Essentials too. I've only worn my 3/2 chest zip once, but that was after chatting to a bloke at our local who has three of them, all over 12 months old, used weekly/daily sometimes, and still look very good. Nice price too. Unless being made in China bothers you, then you can't go past. .

To throw another budget option in the mix, I've had a peak zip free for 2 years (220 bucks) - same sizing as rip curl and backed by the same 3 year seam/12 month warranty. Pretty warm but not as flexible as your ebomb / top tier suits obviously - but some guys took this thing to tazzie and it went ok...

stabmag.com/style/wintermission-the-reasonably-priced-entry-level-utility-wetsuit/

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AndyrooMac said..
If you can afford it the Patagonia are still the best for warmth and wear... Some of the others are better for flex...

The needs essentials are really great value, warm and well made with decent flex. very good support if you have issues. Can't speak for durability though as mines only 6mnths old but looks promising.

My winter suit is a 5/4 Vissla was real cheap and has been really good, it's 3rd season coming up and it's still perfect... They are poor for flex but really warm and built like a tank... Would happily buy another.

I have a Patagonia jacket. Had it for ages. Still fits the same never. looked after it. Warm comfortable and enough flex.
I must look into needs essentials wetsuits.
Do shop sell them or are they online