Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Review: 5/3 Womens Wetsuit
Reviewed by: Catalina
Wetsuit Materials: Neoprene, Thermoflex, E5 taping
What we like: Really warm with lighter arms good for paddling
What we don’t: Slight lack of flexibility but not overly so
Rating: 8/10
What does Rip Curl Say?:
The Women’s Dawn Patrol Chest Zip wetsuit features E5 Neoprene, 3/4 E4 Thermoflex, 3/4 E5 taping plus a refined panelling pattern to achieve a high performance feminine form. In addition, all Dawn Patrol products boast durable construction at great value.
Key Features:
I think this is one of the few wetsuits you can find out there that offers 5/3mm. It is great for winter surfing.
Keeps me really warm and it doesn’t affect my paddling as much as the sleeves are only 3mm. Also, it has seals around the wrists, neck and legs to prevent the water from getting inside the wetsuit.
Another great feature is the front zip which also helps to stop the water from getting in
How Warm is It?
In regards to level of warmness I’d say this is one of the best winter wetsuits I’ve ever owned. I normally wear this wet suit in Melbourne’s winter. From May until September. In the coldest months (July – August) It keeps me warm for up to 1.5 hours when the water temperature is about 15 C.
Comfort / Flexibility and sizing?
If I compare the level of warmness the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol 5/3 offers against the comfort/flexibility I’d say it is great for what it offers. As it is a thicker wetsuit, it is expected to be stiffer. This wetsuit is very comfy and it feels cozy inside when I wear it. It is flexible enough around the arms to not affect my paddling too much. The only thing is that given its thickness it is a bit hard to put on and take off. That requires some effort.
This wetsuit is size 6. Overall, it fits me well but maybe the legs a bit too long. Other than, it’s a good fit. I’m small – 1.60 cm and 54 kg
Below is the Ripcurl Women’s wetsuit sizing chart:
WOMEN’S FULLSUIT SIZE CHART
| Size | Height | Chest | Waist | Seat | Thigh | Arm | Leg Length | Body Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 155 | 78 | 61 | 86.5 | 48 | 48.4 | 66 | 54.8 |
| 6 | 160 | 82 | 63.5 | 89 | 51 | 49.6 | 68.5 | 56 |
| 8 | 165 | 86 | 66 | 91.5 | 53.5 | 50.8 | 71 | 57.2 |
| 10 | 170 | 90 | 68.5 | 94 | 56 | 52 | 73.5 | 56 |
| 12 | 175 | 94 | 71 | 96.5 | 58.5 | 53.2 | 76 | 59.6 |
| 14 | 178 | 96 | 73.5 | 99 | 61 | 54.4 | 78.5 | 60.8 |
| 16 | 181 | 100 | 75.8 | 101 | 63 | 55 | 78.5 | 62 |
Please note sizing information is listed in Metric (centimetres). Weight is in kilograms.
What do you think of its construction quality?
The neoprene and the type of stitching used are really good quality. You can barely see/feel the seams.
How has it held up over time?
I’ve had this wetsuit for about 1 year and I normally surf every weekend (before covid). It’s in mint condition still. Still looks like brand new. I think also because it is all black, I can’t see any signs of discoloration of fading. It isn’t torn or ripped.
How does it compare with any wetsuits you have used in the past?
This has been the best winter wetsuit I’ve had so far. I used to have a Roxy 4/3mm but didn’t keep me as warm.
Your thoughts on the price and value of the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol?
This wetsuit was around $500 AU. I think it’s good value for money.
Final Thoughts and Rating
I would rate this suit as 8/10.
I love how warm the Rip Curl Dawn Patrol is, and with 3mm arms its still good for paddling.
I love the minimalistic design. In regards to changes I’d like to see; I’d say it would be great if wetsuits in general came with different lengths for short people like me. Same size but different length depending on how tall you are
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Hope you enjoyed our Rip Curl Dawn Patrol Review. Do you have one yourself? We’d love to hear your feedback.
Get Foamie will be reviewing more surf wetsuits so stay tuned!
