chestzip

Chestzip refers to a wetsuit or diving suit in which the zipper runs across the chest rather than along the back. This design is common in water sports such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and diving, where shoulder mobility and core flexibility are advantageous.

The chestzip is typically a vertical or diagonal zipper that closes over the chest with a seal designed to minimize water entry. The zipper is often hidden beneath a small panel to reduce flapping and improve durability. Proponents say the chest location reduces water flushing during movement and allows greater freedom of movement for paddling, swimming, and complex arm motions compared with some back-zip designs.

Advantages of chestzip include enhanced shoulder flexibility, reduced drag during strokes, and potentially better warmth in the torso due to closer body contours. Trade-offs can include a more challenging donning and doffing process, since reaching the zipper on the chest is less convenient for some users. The seal around the zipper and neck, along with the overall suit construction, remains crucial to water containment and warmth.

Chestzip configurations vary by brand and model, with some using single or multi-panel zippers, and many employing durable, water-resistant seals and reinforced seams. Care for chestzip wetsuits follows standard neoprene maintenance: rinse after use, avoid aggressive bending of the zipper, and occasionally apply a zipper lubricant to maintain smooth operation.