Sheet updated September 2026
The Manera Seafarer Hooded U-Zip 4.3 mm fullsuit combines an integrated hood with the Seafarer U-Zip's mid-range thickness. It is also the first to feature Manera's new entry system. This fullsuit has two thicknesses, 4 and 3 mm, and an integrated hood. Manera offers the new entry system across five models: two hooded versions (5.4,3 and 4.3 mm) and three non-hooded versions (5.4,3, 4.3, and 3.2 mm). This 4.3 mm model is the thinner of the two hooded options. The U-Zip is a smaller zip than a classic zip. It pivots flat. This lets it follow your body's natural lines instead of creating a straight line across your torso.
KEY INFORMATION
MANERA SEAFARER HOODED U-ZIP 4.3 MM - Men's fullsuit with hood, mid-range thickness in the U-Zip line
What we like
- Integrated hood: Your head is covered in one piece, with no seam between the collar and a separate hood.
- Mid-range thickness: With two thicknesses, 4 and 3 mm, this is the thinnest hooded version in the U-Zip range.
- Pivoting zip: The U-Zip follows a curved path across the shoulder, chest, and shoulder blade.
- Flexible back: A stretch neoprene zone runs along the zip, at the shoulder blades.
- High watertightness: Continuous closure from shoulder to shoulder, where water entry is most common.
- Easy to put on alone: The pull tab is very easily accessible. This allows for unassisted opening and closing.
- Twelve sizes: Short and long body sizes St, Ms, Mt, Ls, Lt, and XLs complete the size chart.
Use
Kitesurf • Wingfoil • Surf
Available sizes
Included / Not included
✔️ Included: The Manera Seafarer Hooded U-Zip 4.3 mm wetsuit, integrated hood
❌ Not included: Boots, Gloves
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Its place in the Seafarer U-Zip range
Manera offers the new entry system across five models: two versions with hood, in 5.4,3 and in 4.3 mm, and three without hood, in 5.4,3, 4.3 and 3.2 mm. This is the thinner of the two with hood. Boots and gloves are not supplied; choose them separately. Without hood, we offer the Seafarer U-Zip 4.3 mm. For colder water, the Seafarer Hooded U-Zip 5.4,3 mm.
The U-Zip system
The U-Zip is smaller than a classic zip and can pivot flat. This rotational freedom allows for closing paths that follow the body's natural lines. It is positioned on the shoulder, chest, and shoulder blade. Manera states this limits hard points during paddling and repetitive movements. This improves comfort and freedom of movement.
The back and the pull tab
A stretch neoprene zone runs along the zip at the shoulder blades. This increases back flexibility. The pull tab is very easily accessible for smooth opening and closing. Manera presents the U-Zip as the perfect balance between ease of donning and continuous watertightness from shoulder to shoulder, where water entry matters most.
The integrated hood
The hood is an integral part of the fullsuit. This means no gap between the collar and a separate hood, and nothing extra to put on at the beach. Manera reserves this feature for its two warmest U-Zip models, the 5.4,3 and 4.3 mm.
The Seafarer construction
The Seafarer is Manera's most direct range, focusing on warmth, comfort, and durability. It features SFOAM limestone-based foam. Manera claims this offers the best flexibility, warmth, and durability ratio on the market. The XTEND Fleece lining's loops insulate and dry quickly. It also includes soft and light XTEND Jersey, SD2 Tape seams on 100% of the fullsuit, a 3D-designed pattern, and a water strainer to drain water.
The 3D pattern
Manera designs its wetsuits in 3D on a body, then converts this model into a 2D pattern for the factory. This is the opposite of common practice, which starts from 2D. The brand expects a second-skin fit from this method. This means no water entry or air pockets, neoprene that only works during movement, and no tight areas around the armpits or crotch.
SIZE GUIDE
| Size | Rider size (cm) | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| XS | 157 to 176 | 54 to 62 |
| S | 162 to 181 | 62 to 70 |
| St | 176 to 191 | 62 to 70 |
| Ms | 162 to 175 | 70 to 78 |
| M | 170 to 185 | 70 to 78 |
| Mt | 180 to 195 | 70 to 78 |
| Ls | 166 to 180 | 78 to 86 |
| L | 175 to 190 | 78 to 86 |
| Lt | 185 to 200 | 78 to 86 |
| XLs | 166 to 180 | 84 to 94 |
| XL | 177 to 196 | 84 to 94 |
| XXL | 181 to 201 | 94 to 102 |
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Product | Manera Seafarer Hooded U-Zip 4.3 mm |
| Type | Men's fullsuit with integrated hood |
| Range | Seafarer |
| Thickness | 4 mm and 3 mm |
| Closure | U-Zip system, shoulder, chest, and shoulder blade pattern |
| Hood | Integrated |
| Place in the U-Zip range | Thinnest model with hood |
| Back flexibility | Stretch neoprene zone along the zip, at the shoulder blades |
| Foam Boards | SFOAM, made from limestone |
| Lining | XTEND Fleece, with insulating loops for quick-drying performance |
| Jersey | XTEND Jersey, flexible and lightweight |
| Seams | SD2 Tape on 100% of the fullsuit |
| Pattern | 3D designed |
| Water drainage | Water strainer |
| Color | Black |
| Sizes | XS, S, St, Ms, M, Mt, Ls, L, Lt, XLs, XL, XXL |
FAQ - MANERA SEAFARER HOODED U-ZIP 4.3 MM
Manera offers the new entry system across five models: two versions with hood, in 5.4,3 and in 4.3 mm, and three without hood, in 5.4,3, 4.3 and 3.2 mm. This is the thinner of the two with hood. In the GlissEvolution catalog, it is listed as a mid-season wetsuit.
The size guide above cross-references rider height and weight, based on the Manera FW27 chart. Twelve sizes are offered, with longer body sizes in t and shorter ones in s. This avoids compensating for body shape by going up a size. If you have any doubt, visit the store; sizes are in stock.
The zip is smaller and pivots flat. This allows it to follow a curved path along the shoulder, chest, and shoulder blade, rather than a straight line across the torso. Manera adds a stretch neoprene zone along the zip at the shoulder blades. The stated goal is twofold: ease of donning and a continuous closure from shoulder to shoulder.
No, the hood is integrated into the fullsuit. For a U-Zip wetsuit without a hood in the same thickness, Manera offers the Seafarer U-Zip 4.3 mm. Boots and gloves are separate purchases.
Our shop is in Pornichet, Loire-Atlantique, and wetsuits are in stock. Trying them on is the only sure way to decide between two sizes. Our team rides in the bay all year and answers by phone and email.
▶ Need advice?
GlissEvolution, 2c avenue du Gulfstream, 44380 Pornichet (Loire-Atlantique)
09 62 64 74 77 | WhatsApp: 07 83 28 39 94, Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-1pm / 3pm-7pm
Test center available by appointment
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