Surfing NZ during winter ain't for the faint-hearted. Luckily, we're tough and appreciated good waves with less crowds! Our top recommendation for the best wetsuit for surfing New Zealand's North Island during winter is the Bahia 4/3mm.

Our Bahia Seriesis a comfy and warm suit thanks to it's glued and blindstitched seams (GBS), MeshSkin chest/back panels and SuperGrill liner, and looks incredible with its seasonal Surf Series print.

You can also look to some of the boys/unisex suits forfurther options..for kids the only difference between boys and girls suits is the colour, the fits are the same.TheDefender 4/3, is the same construction as the Bahia series, soyou may considerDefender suits for alternate colourways and chest zip options.

Our favourite booties for this time of year are the Defender 3mm Split Toe Boot, preferred hood option is thePsycho 3mm Coldwater Hood, and our pick for gloves is always thePsychotech 1.5mm Glove.

It just depends on what’s most important to you - warmth / flexibility / price.

Check out the autumn/spring recommendations for further suggestionsif you feel the cold less or you are leaning towards warmer conditions.