The Dakine Quantum Wetsuit
We were really excited when Dakine launched their new series of wetsuits earlier this year: three all-season designs with Dakine’s signature focus on durability, performance and warmth but with an eye on affordability too. You’ll know all about the Mission and the Cyclone wetsuits from our previous blogs - and now, here’s the full round-up on Dakine’s Quantum wetsuit.
The first thing to say about the Quantum is that it might be the least expensive of the three suits on offer but there’s absolutely no scrimping on build quality. Dakine have used their latest design innovation and technology to ensure that the Quantum provides the best your money will buy. Let’s head from the outside in!
On the outside
First off, and it’s ‘easy in’ with the chest-zipped entry to minimise cold-water flushing. The outer layers and panels have very much been designed with flexibility and eco creds in mind. All the upper body panels feature Dakine’s top grade S-type neoprene for maximum flexibility and stretch, and the unique FLX lining meaning that you’ll be able to stretch, paddle and flex with ease - and stay warm too. And whilst neoprene isn’t generally known for its green creds, Dakine’s new range is made from eco-driven Limestone neoprene derived from non-petrochemicals cutting CO2 emissions in its manufacture by 24%.
Talking of flex and warmth, Dakine have reviewed all those tricky seam areas notorious for stretching out of shape or coming apart and allowing cold water in. As standard across this all-new Dakine range, from its premium Cyclone to the affordable Quantum, you’ll find double-glued and 3D stitched seams and resist panels in key areas. Plus, all the seam junctions are spot taped inside and the all-important crotch seam is fully-taped to make the whole suit watertight, flexible and highly durable. Why does all this matter? Well, as anyone who has bought a wetsuit with lower quality build features will tell you, these are the key areas that can fail; you could be on the hunt for something new to keep you warm in the water after just a couple of winters. Invest in something more durable, such as the Dakine Quantum, and it should last you for several years.
On the inside
You might be forgiven for thinking that in engineering this affordable wetsuit, Dakine decided to focus on the outer and save on the comfort factor. Whilst the Quantum may not have the high-spec HEXO-Therm layer Dakine introduced in the Cyclone, they have used their outstanding THERMO lining in all the upper body panels where you’re likely to feel the wind-chill the most. The rest of the suit comprises high flex NPM lining, with the Apex Fit pattern providing great fit and freedom of movement - all really key factors when you’re out on your board.
What did our expert reviewer, JB, think of the Dakine Quantum?
“The Quantum definitely changed my expectation of what an affordable wetsuit should be. There are so many features you wouldn’t ordinarily see in similar priced suits on the market including integrated chest-zip entry, compressed cuffs to minimise wear and cold-water flushing and 3D watertight seams. Dakine have really paid attention to eco-creds, durability and long-life performance with this suit - it might be a little less warm in colder environments than the Mission or the Cyclone but what you do get is great flexibility and strength for a highly affordable price tag.”
The Dakine Quantum comes in both men’s and women’s styles with summer and winter thicknesses, ideal for Atlantic, Channel and North Sea temperatures. It’s suitable for any rider and offers the best value to those starting out on their surfing journey. And while Dakine’s wetsuits may not be the cheapest on the market, they should give you great performance for up to five years compared with an average of two years for wetsuits of lesser quality. Over the long term, you’ll be doing both your pocket and the environment a favour by spending that bit more from the outset.