Why is it good, alright, annoying or shit?:

For the price it is one of the best wetsuits I have ever owned. It is really well made and allows for a lot of movement which can be an issue in a lot of winter suits. I particularly like the brand too as they have this thing about not being too selly or showy. All their branding is on the inside and nowhere else. It feels like it’s an underground undiscovered thing I guess. But aside from all that, it’s good and snug, super warm and holds up in February – May UK temperatures. It can be a bit of a dick to take off after a knackering session though. With the chest zip you need to have fairly flexible shoulders or a companion to help get one arm out. But I would argue that that bodes well in a winter suit as if it’s difficult to get out of it’s difficult for ice cold rushing water to get in.

How is the fit, now that you’re not the spring chicken you obviously once were?:

It’s quite accommodating, you’ve got a lot of room where it counts (belly & bum) and is fairly easy to put on.

Would you buy another when this one falls apart?:

Absolutely, NeedEssentials do exactly what their website says they do. It’s well made, great materials and has already lasted a couple of seasons without a frayed stitch.

Any other comments?:

On a side not I got some new boots from NeedEssentials too recently, it’s too early to give a glowing review but the couple of times I have used them, they have been comfortable & warm with good grip. And they were affordable at £40!