Farmer-John (aka Long-John) wetsuits are especially familiar to kayakers and others who want free arm movement along with warmth when on and in the water. But they’re often made exactly the same for Janes and Jills, despite our body types being very different.
The Patagonia Women’s R1 Long Jane is just for the water-loving ladies. Made from a combination of 1.5 millimeter neoprene, a recycled polyester jersey lining, and partially recycled stretch face fabric, the wetsuit allows women to be comfortable in waters between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The lightweight warmth matched with performance details helps keep core and legs warm while in the water.
The high-quality neoprene used meets Patagonia standards for strength, durability and support, while the high-stretch 100-percent recycled polyester jersey lining improves flexibility and dry time.
More than 20 years ago, Patagonia adopted fleece made from post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic soda bottles. Today, the brand is able to utilize more sources for recycled polyester and offer it on more garments, like this wetsuit. Patagonia now recycles used soda bottles, unusable manufacturing waste, and worn out garments into polyester fibers to produce many of its clothes. Using recycled polyester lessens our dependence on petroleum as a raw material source, curbs discards and reduces toxic emissions from incinerators.
The long-leg design of the Long Jane provides sun protection for daytime surfing, and the anatomical design holds close to the body for optimal flex—far better than a unisex version. Spandex binding at the neck and armholes is cleanly finished, and seams are sewn with flatlock construction to avoid chafing and increase durability.
I’ve used this wetsuit for kayaking, surfing, stand-up paddling (SUP), boogie boarding, and body surfing, and it’s my go-to in warmer waters. Considering that I often do all those activities in Northern California’s coastal region, I sometimes have to ditch the Long Jane for a greater measure of neoprene, but I come back when I can.
The Patagonia Women’s R1 Long Jane comes in black or “howling turquoise” (which is black with turquoise accents) and lists for $149 on the Patagonia site. It’s also available at Backcountry.