Neoprene Tops

Neoprene Tops for Summer and Transitional Days

Neoprene tops are a lightweight and versatile piece of neoprene, ideal for summer and transitional days when you need torso protection from wind, cooling or sun — without wearing a full suit.

Because they are quick to put on, easy to pack and work perfectly as a “backup” in a dry bag, they are essential for SUP, surfing, swimming, wing foil and other water sports.

Who Are Neoprene Tops Best For?

SUP and kayaking in transitional seasons, when the air is warm but the water is cooler
SUP/kayak on rivers, where the water remains cold even in summer
kitesurfing, windsurfing and wing foil in warm/tropical locations in the late afternoon, when the sun drops and wind chill increases
surfing or swimming when you want extra warmth and torso protection
UV protection without needing a thick neoprene suit
protection from skin irritation (surf wax, harnesses, waist belts in kiting or windsurfing)

In water sports where wind quickly cools the torso, a neoprene top is extremely useful even in mid-summer.

How to Choose the Right Neoprene Top Thickness?

Most neoprene tops are 1–2 mm thick, making them light, comfortable and designed for warmer conditions.

1 mm tops → more summer-oriented; mainly provide UV protection and light warmth
1.5–2 mm tops → warmer; ideal for transitional seasons (spring/autumn) or cold river water

Short Sleeve or Long Sleeve?

Short sleeves → summer conditions, warm water, maximum freedom of movement
Long sleeves → cooler mornings/evenings, windy conditions, transitional season, extra UV protection

Zip or No Zip?

A neoprene top with a zip allows faster dressing and better temperature regulation.

For kiting, surfing and windsurfing, zip-free tops are often preferred, as a front zip can be uncomfortable under a harness.

Neoprene Jackets and Pullovers – Extra Layer for Tougher Conditions

You’ll also find neoprene jackets and neoprene pullovers that provide additional warmth and protection in windy or colder conditions. Jackets allow you to open/close them depending on temperature, while pullovers are excellent as an outer layer over wetsuits or long john models.

Neoprene Jackets for SUP

Neoprene jackets for SUP are designed to protect you from wind and cold without overheating while paddling. Special breathable side panels improve airflow, preventing overheating and excessive sweating — an ideal combination for SUP, where you spend most of the time above water, exposed to wind and sun.

These jackets are perfect for cooler mornings, windy conditions, cold rivers or as a quick extra layer when the weather changes.

FAQ - NAJPOGOSTEJŠA VPRAŠANJA

When to choose a wetsuit and when to choose a neoprene shirt?

Choose a wetsuit when:
• you want better protection of the torso area against water intrusion,
• you expect to fall into the water (surfing, kiteboarding, wing, swimming),
• the water is colder than the air or you will be in it for a longer time.

Choose a neoprene shirt when:
• you are going SUP in warm weather where falling into the water is less likely,
• the water is warmer and only mild protection is needed,
• you want protection from UV rays,
• you prefer easier dressing compared to a wetsuit,
• you want more freedom of movement and a thinner, less restrictive layer,
• the combination of shirt and leggings is more practical than a full wetsuit,
• you have a shirt that packs better as a backup in a waterproof SUP bag,
• you only need upper body protection (e.g., in hot air and cold water).