Since Jack O’Neill invented the first wetsuit in 1952, our team has worked extensively on building the most advanced wetsuits in the industry. O’Neill’s Area 52 exclusive research & development facility, staffed by full-time engineering, design and prototyping teams who work closely with the world’s best athletes to push the limits of wetsuit technology. Area 52allows us to hand-build and refine multiple rounds of prototypes in the same fashion that Jack himself pioneered over sixty years ago. Extensive prototyping, fit checks and testing in the frigid waters of Northern California provide unparalleled insight when creating the best fitting, most functional wetsuits on the planet. O’Neill Wetsuits is still located in Santa Cruz, California, the birthplace of modern cold water surfing and the proving ground for materials, features, and benefits that keep you in the water longer. Over 60 years and countless industry firsts later, O’Neill’s commitment to leading innovation continues stronger than ever.