Xcel launches neoprene-free launch

Today, Xcel Wetsuits announced that the company has re-aligned its global wetsuit line, bringing forward its neoprene-free initiative by one year with the introduction of the COMP+ performance wetsuit.

Zeke Lau in the Xcel COMP+ wetsuit. Photo credit: Hunter Martinez / Willie Kessel

The new COMP+

The new COMP+ wetsuit is the result of two years of research and development to create what the brand calls “the most comfortable wetsuit in the world.” Part of the Performance Series, which also includes the COMP and COMP X, the COMP+ features a new Channel Flex outer with incredible stretch and a new Thermo Dry Infrared (IR) inner for new levels of warmth and comfort. The COMP+ is now available for men and women in vests, spring suits and full body suits.

Retailers have responded positively to the COMP+. Cody Enger, General Manager of Proof Lab, said: “The new COMP+ offers superior stretch and comfort. A fantastic suit that never restricts your movement. So stretchy you’ll forget you’re wearing a wetsuit. If you need a true F1 competition suit, this is it.”

The COMP+ is the hero product of the new Fall 2024 Xcel collection, introducing new state-of-the-art materials with more stretch, warmth and comfort. The new Fall collection also offers a full range of Xcel women’s suits to meet the growing demand of female surfers.

Neoprene-free

Xcel also announced that the company has brought forward its commitment to phase out neoprene by one year, with the new natural rubber product line coming to market in spring 2025.

Lance Varon, Xcel Product Manager, stated, “We have completed testing of our natural, neoprene-free material and are ready to launch a year ahead of schedule. The new wetsuits offer the world-class performance our core surfers expect from Xcel, with great stretch, warmth and durability.”

The new neoprene-free wetsuits will be available from spring 2025.

About Xcel Wetsuits

Ed D’Ascoli founded Xcel in 1982 in the bedroom of his Sunset Beach home. D’Ascoli found inspiration in the world-class performances happening on his doorstep, and the opportunity to develop and connect high-performance products with the athletes who demanded them was irresistible. Xcel’s passionate focus on product development would become the brand’s defining characteristic. Xcel has been voted Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA) Wetsuit of the Year five times (2007, 2008, 2010, 2017, 2019) and Accessory of the Year in 2012 by its industry peers.