XCEL 5/4 Drylock Mens Hooded Wetsuit 2025

Ed D’Ascoli founded Xcel in 1982, starting from the bedroom of his Sunset Beach house. Living on the shores of one of the world’s top surf spots inspired him daily. The natural beauty of the area and the world-class performances at Sunset Beach fueled his creativity. The opportunity to design high-performance products for elite athletes was irresistible. Xcel quickly became known for developing products tailored to the needs of extreme athletes. 

D’Ascoli’s background made him uniquely qualified to launch Xcel. Growing up in New Jersey, he surfed cold Atlantic waters. The chilly conditions inspired him to create wetsuits suitable for any environment. In Hawaii, wetsuits with 2mm of neoprene were often sufficient. However, Sunset Beach’s powerful waves and strong currents required something different. Surfers needed wetsuits designed for maximum performance and durability. This challenge became central to Xcel’s commitment to innovation. 

D’Ascoli’s previous experience was key to Xcel’s success. He helped establish Victory Wetsuits in Japan, a recognized brand. This experience shaped his vision for Xcel, which focused on quality and cutting-edge technology. As Xcel grew, it attracted surfers, divers, and athletes from around the world. The brand’s pursuit of excellence quickly became its hallmark. 

After establishing a strong presence in the surfing market, Xcel expanded its offerings globally. Known for surf gear innovations, the brand soon targeted other markets. Xcel’s core products now include surf, dive, UV protection, paddling, and wakeboarding gear. This diversification solidified its position as a leader in performance gear. The brand’s reputation for excellence helped it dominate in various water sports industries. 

In 1990, D’Ascoli moved Xcel’s headquarters from Sunset Beach to Haleiwa. The bustling North Shore town allowed the company to expand operations. Xcel also opened a California warehouse, helping its entry into recreational diving. The brand’s reputation for innovation and expertise in surf wetsuits enabled it to design top-tier dive gear. Xcel applied surf wetsuit features to improve dive wetsuit design. This transition to the diving market marked a significant milestone in the company’s growth.

Xcel’s commitment to innovation and product development earned it a loyal following. The company creates wetsuits with maximum stretch, durability, and custom-like fit. They offer wetsuits for men, women, and youth in both tropical and cold waters. Each suit is designed for peak performance and longevity. 

Xcel’s dedication to quality has earned recognition from various industry leaders. The Surf Industry Manufacturer’s Association (SIMA) has honored the brand several times. Xcel has won the prestigious “Wetsuit of the Year” award four times, in 2007, 2008, 2010, and 2017. This recognition reflects the company’s commitment to providing top-quality gear. Xcel continues to lead the high-performance gear industry through its passion for innovation and excellence.