Recently I purchased a Matuse Hoplite wetsuit after reading some positive reviews on the benefits of the geoprene technology i.e. lasts longer, warmer, flexible and environmentally friendly. For the last couple years I've exclusively worn RipCurl wetsuits and have nothing but good reviews. I randomly decided to try out a Matuse and ordered a s/s 2mm full suit off their website. Overall, I was pretty disappointing in how the suit fit me. The suit did not fit my upper body well (felt like I was wearing a suit jacket that was too small). The wetsuit is a size Large and there's no way that I'm an XL. Im not sure if these suits run small or if there cut for people with a skinny build or what, I definitely have broader shoulders and a stockier build so I guess there just not for me... Anyway, Im pretty bummed and was curious to see if anybody else had a similar experience with these suits. I recently put the suit up on craigslist if anybody is looking to try it out. http://jerseyshore.craigslist.org/spo/1718248558.html http://www.matuse.com/product.html?product_id=87
I picked up a hoplite 3/2 from Gilt Group. They sent me a men's small instead of a medium, short.... clearly hardcore surfers. I called Gilt Group and they were dumbfounded even though their listing had sizes broken out correctly. I called Matuse and Aaron actually made an even exchange for me. The suit is very tight, but also, very warm, very flexible and comfy. I think after a couple sessions it will be sweet. This is a much warmer suit than my cheaper xcel 3/2. I guess I would agree that they run a bit small but I did find with stretchy rubber that it will be okay. If you're at the upper 1/3 of the weight for the size, I'd recommend going up a size.
Koko - Ive had a 3/2 Matuse for two years lots of use and love it - warm, light, and doesn't leak. I bought it at Malibus Surf Shop in OCMD and the owner told me right away that Matuse's sizes are different than other brands. I'm 5'9" 155 and he told me to try on a large and he was right...the Matuse Large fits me about the same as an Xcel and Rip Curl medium (ive had 3/2s in both those brands).
I heard that Matus has issues with there Zippers Failing after a short period of use . Has anyone had any zipper issues
Not yet, but I've only worn it once. I have heard that their customer service is excellent. I'll keep ya posted re: the zipper.
