Our Verdict
Score
Test dateJuly '15 - July '16 |
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What we like
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What we dislike
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The overall verdict
The Orca S5 is a great beginners suit with some fantastic neoprene and buoyance. The only remark is that the neck felt a bit tight, although this stopped the water from entering the suit which is a good thing, it chaffed a little bit during the swim.
Full test review
The Orca S5 wetsuit comes in a men's and woman's version. This review is of the men's version of the S5 wetsuit which is specifically designed to provide a better fit for the male open water swimmer or triathlete.
This Orca suit is an entry level wetsuit that offers great performance. The suit is exclusively made from high quality Yamamoto neoprene. The front of the suit features a high quality 39 cell grade neoprene that is hydrophobic, which has drag reducing qualities.
There is thinner, 2mm, 39-cell neoprene on the shoulder and arms meaning that your stroke is not impeded.
There is also Silicone print Hydrostroke forearm panels. This material is designed to catch the water as you go through the pull phase of your stroke, adding greater traction and power to your stroke.
At the calves, Orca have added Speed Transition Calf panels which will allow for a fast transition when required.
The zip is very long and extends down to the lower lumbar, allowing for a speedy exit from the suit.
While trying the suit on, i must say that the high grade neoprene allows for excellent flexibility and provides a lot of comfort. The thinner neoprene around the shoulders allows for a great range of movement.
In the water it comes to it's right regarding buoyance, it positions your body and thighs perfectly. It is a flexible wetsuit, but there are definitely more flexible suits available, but they would cost more. The neck seal does a great job at keeping water out, but it feels a bit tight and chafs a little bit during the swim.
This Orca suit is an entry level wetsuit that offers great performance. The suit is exclusively made from high quality Yamamoto neoprene. The front of the suit features a high quality 39 cell grade neoprene that is hydrophobic, which has drag reducing qualities.
There is thinner, 2mm, 39-cell neoprene on the shoulder and arms meaning that your stroke is not impeded.
There is also Silicone print Hydrostroke forearm panels. This material is designed to catch the water as you go through the pull phase of your stroke, adding greater traction and power to your stroke.
At the calves, Orca have added Speed Transition Calf panels which will allow for a fast transition when required.
The zip is very long and extends down to the lower lumbar, allowing for a speedy exit from the suit.
While trying the suit on, i must say that the high grade neoprene allows for excellent flexibility and provides a lot of comfort. The thinner neoprene around the shoulders allows for a great range of movement.
In the water it comes to it's right regarding buoyance, it positions your body and thighs perfectly. It is a flexible wetsuit, but there are definitely more flexible suits available, but they would cost more. The neck seal does a great job at keeping water out, but it feels a bit tight and chafs a little bit during the swim.
How we tested it
We tested this wetsuit during some extensive swims in the sea along the Wild Atlantic Way
