The New U-Zip Wetsuit Entry System

A couple of years ago we started seeing murmerings from a couple brands of a new entry system for wetsuits. Originally introduced and developed by japanese brand AXXE alongside major zip producer YKK and then licensced by Vissla, we now see this system coming into play initially on the Guru+ range from Sooruz and later in the entire Guru and Fighter PRO range for 2027. At the sales meeting earlier in the year, the guys in the Sooruz office wouldn't stop singing its praises as a system - and we think it looks the real deal.

Why U-Zip?

The chest zip took over probably 20 years ago now - with a smaller zip than a backzip, better flexibility because of the zips placement and more warmth due to less flushing and water ingress. The zips are smaller, so less water gets through them. They were still straight though - so stretch across the chest can be a limit, and the side you enter the suit can still be an issue with flushing.

Now, zips can go around corners - and this is exactly what YKK worked on and why the U-Zip looks to excel. A curved zip from shoulder to shoulder under the neck means theres no loose flap just waiting for water to flush through it. It also means it has space to move and to flex - something surfers especially will gain from with all their paddling. 

We still see sales in back zips though..... predominantly for those who have less flexibility and struggle with the tighter openings of chest zips. Openings got smaller and smaller to reduce flushing as much as possible - but that made them harder to get in and out. Now, with a curved zip we see larger openings - so we're expecting to see a good bunch of those Back Zip lovers testing and enjoying the new system. Think passionate watersports users who have gotten older and simply find it awkward to get in and out of the current chest zip offerings - this new U-zip system should appeal to them, as they still value the performance benefits of a chest zip suit, just not the entry of it.

Sooruz have been testing prototypes for months now, figuring out the best placement for the zips to not interfere with paddling while also improving flexibility as much as possible - and we're excited to see it come to life in the range.

Which suits will it be on?

For Winter 2026 we'll see the U-Zips solely on the Guru+ range - the tippydeetop for warmth and performance. For Summer 2027 we'll see that extend to the whole Guru range and the Fighter Pro - Jorgann Couzinet's pro line. 

Chest Zip and front zip options will remain in the line for a while to come, to keep those sceptical happy. However, those in the office that had spent time in U-Zip suits are confident they are the bee's knee's and will come to replace all other options over the coming years in popularity. Its unlikely Sooruz will remove chest zips entirely, as like back zips there will always be someone who prefers another system - but even we have to admit, if you're after the best suit for the job - that suit looks like it's gonna have a U-Zip on it. Personally, we're excited to grab them in the 6mm's once the winter orders start arriving