XCEL - a brand for riders looking for proven neoprene

XCEL is a Hawaii-born neoprene brand with deep roots in surfing and cold-water gear. Founded in 1982 by Ed D’Ascoli in Sunset Beach, the brand is made for riders who need a wetsuit, boots, gloves, hoods and thermal layers for surf, SUP, windsurfing, wing foil, kitesurfing and other water activities. Its approach is built around fit, stretch, sealed seams and materials that help keep warmth in without making the rubber feel stiff.

Technologies XCEL is built around

Channel Flex for freedom of movement

Channel Flex is XCEL’s lightweight hydrophobic gridded exterior material. It is designed to reduce fibre and water weight, helping the suit move more freely during paddling, take-offs and longer sessions.

Thermal linings for cold conditions

XCEL uses several warmth-focused lining systems, including Thermo Dry Infrared, Thermo Dry Celliant, Thermo Dry Inferno and Thermo Dry Radiant. These thermal lining technologies are designed to help retain body heat and reduce cold penetration.

Sealed seams and controlled water entry

Key XCEL lines use seam tape, Fusion X taped seams, triple glued and blind stitched seams, plus semi-dry or watertight zip systems. This construction helps reduce flushing and keeps the suit warmer during repeated water contact.

Premium and technical materials

Across selected models, XCEL uses Nanoprene Lite Japanese limestone neoprene, infrared interiors and high-pile linings. The result is a range that covers both high-end cold-water wetsuit performance and more accessible everyday comfort.

Proven surf credibility

XCEL states that it has won the SIMA “Wetsuit of the Year” award four times: 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2020. The brand also supports its product development through a team of surfers and ocean-focused ambassadors.

XCEL wetsuits: from Axis to Drylock

The XCEL range is easy to understand because each line has a clear role. Axis is the more accessible option for riders who want basic warmth and comfort, while Comp focuses on lightness and flexibility with an Ultra Flex exterior. Comp+ and Comp X move towards performance stretch, infrared warmth and watertight zip construction.

Infiniti is a dependable surf wetsuit line for warmth and comfort, while Drylock sits at the premium end with Channel Flex, TDI or IR lining, Fusion X tape and a semi-dry zipper.

Neoprene accessories for cold sessions

XCEL is not only about fullsuits. The range also includes wetsuit boots, split toe and round toe booties, reef boots, wetsuit gloves, hoods, neoprene caps, beanies, vests and layering pieces.

These products matter when the water is cold enough for heat loss through your hands, feet or head to shorten the session. A wetsuit hood can make a big difference in wind, spray and low water temperatures, especially when combined with the right gloves and boots.

Who is XCEL for?

XCEL is for riders who need dependable neoprene for surfing, windsurfing, wing foil, kitesurfing, SUP and paddle-based water use. Beginners can look at Axis for accessible warmth, while intermediate and advanced riders may prefer Infiniti, Comp+, Comp X or Drylock depending on the balance between stretch, warmth and sealed construction.

The brand is especially relevant for riders who care about fit, seam quality, chest zip or back zip entry, and reducing flushing during colder sessions. It is also a strong choice for anyone building a full neoprene setup around boots, gloves and a hood.

XCEL products at EASY-surfshop

At EASY-surfshop you can find XCEL wetsuits, fullsuits, springsuits, hooded models, women’s, men’s and youth suits, vests, tops, UV and rash guards, thermal layers, boots, gloves, hoods, neoprene caps, beanies and bags.

Choose a neoprene wetsuit by matching thickness, zip type, lining and seam construction to the conditions you ride in. For colder sessions, combine the suit with accessories that protect your extremities and help reduce heat loss. Browse the XCEL range at EASY-surfshop and find the gear that matches your water temperature, riding style and session length.