In the men's suit test, the Excel "Drylock", the most expensive model in the range, which is also available as a women's model, was tested and scored top marks for warmth. The "Xcel Infinity" model, also with a solid material thickness of 6/5 millimetres and a thick hood, was available for the women's suit test. The suit is partially equipped with a particularly soft, warm lining in the core area, while a slightly thicker and flexible "Thermolite IR" lamination was also used throughout the torso, which is also a pleasant contrast to conventional, "simple" neoprene lamination. All seams are sealed with tape on the inside - also very nice. The seams on the outside are not additionally sealed with rubberised tape. Xcel doesn't cheat when it comes to neoprene thickness, which results in a consistently thick "wall thickness" on the arms and sides of the torso.
You don't need a lady-in-waiting in the dressing room, the Xcel Infinity Compared to a jogger-style Prolimit, the already feels like a real neo when you slip it on - but it is by no means unruly. The legs slide very well through the softly lined tubes and only when taking them off do you need a little more shoulder mobility than with one or two other models. When closed, the freedom of movement is very good, the cut and the neoprene stretchability leave nothing to be desired.
During the test, the bonnet impressed with the most comfortable fit and a particularly smart cut on the chin. The bonnet can be tied tightly and you can still speak easily.
In action on the water
The Xcel not only impressed with its excellent freedom of movement, but also with the best possible waterproofing. On the legs, arms and neck. After an hour of surfing with various washes, the hair was still dry. Air temperatures of just one degree and water of a maximum of 5 degrees were easy to endure while surfing in the Xcel Infinity. The suit is very well equipped against the additional wind chill when windsurfing and wingfoiling with smooth skin neoprene on the chest and back. Water rolls off immediately, which noticeably improves the thermal performance in the wind.
Xcel Infinity 6/5 Hooded - the conclusion:
The Xcel Infinity 6/5 Hooded is made of particularly thick neoprene overall and also on the arms, because at Xcel the actual neoprene thickness without coating is decisive, which compensates for the less extensive lining. If you want to get the most out of Xcel, go for the top model "Drylock", but the Infinity also masters the winter perfectly with plenty of comfort, good waterproofing and thick neoprene.
Wearing comfort, sealing, neoprene thickness
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Rating Xcel Infinity 6/5 Hooded Women's Winterneo:
Technical data:
- Test model: Xcel Infinity 6/5 Hooded (size 38/M/8)
- Thickness: 6/5 mm
- Available sizes: 2/4/6/6T/8S/8/8T/10S/10/10T/12/14S/14/16S//16/18
- Price:509 Euro >> available here
