I know this thread has come up, but I read in a local CitySports magazine that the life of a wetsuit is about 4 years. For those who have owned a wetsuit, has that been your experience?
I'm looking at buying a used Orca Predator 2 wetsuit (retails new $400, new on ebay for $325). The suit has been used about 10 times and the owner claims that the suit is 2 years old.
I've looked on eBay and it seems that there are a number of these Orca Predator 2 wetsuits with broken zippers...is that a common occurrence for other Predator 2 owners?
I'm currently offering him $185 for the suit. Would I be better off just buying a less model albeit brand new? Thanks for your input!
Sportsavers, which is the seller that you are probably looking at to buy the orca, has put a number of these damaged suits up for auction. While I have not purchased from them, they seem to be able to maintain their business presence on e-bay. I own an Orca predator II sleeveless and have had no zipper or seam problems. I also bought it new. I have three wetsuits hanging in my closet...and I bought all of them new. I guess I would recommend the same for you. It is a highly individual 'fit" purchase. I always wore a certain size in a QR, but an entirely different size range in an Orca. This is one of those things I'd bite the bullet on and buy from a local dealer that can help you if you have a problem.
