Patagonia R3 Yulex 3MM Wetsuit Surf Cap Hood

Top 3 Reasons We Love This
1. Adds noticeable warmth without committing to a hooded wetsuit
2. Lightweight, flexible and far less restrictive than a full hood
3. Perfect for spring, autumn and milder winter sessions

Product Description
The Patagonia R3 Yulex Surf Cap is a simple, low-profile way to keep your head warmer in cold conditions without stepping up to a full hooded wetsuit. Ideal for surfers who don’t like the feeling of a hood but still want extra insulation, this 3mm wetsuit cap takes the edge off chilly water while staying comfortable and unobtrusive.

Made from stretchy Yulex natural rubber, the cap provides reliable warmth while remaining soft and flexible. The inverted thermal microgrid lining dries quickly and helps retain heat during longer sessions, while the snug fit keeps the cap securely in place without feeling tight or restrictive.

Best suited to spring, autumn and milder winter days, the R3 Surf Cap is easy to throw in the car or wetsuit bag and pull out when conditions cool down. Sustainably made using recycled materials and produced in a Fair Trade Certified factory, it’s a small piece of kit that makes a big difference to comfort.

Features
• Thickness: 3mm (R3 warmth rating)
• Lightweight wetsuit surf cap design
• Best for water temperatures: 6°–13°C
• 85% Yulex natural rubber / 15% synthetic rubber by polymer content
• FSC-certified natural rubber (Preferred by Nature)
• Chlorine-free synthetic rubber
• Warm thermal microgrid interior lining (solution-dyed, partially recycled)
• Durable recycled polyester exterior with stretch
• Laminated with solvent-free AquaA water-based glue
• Comfortable, low-profile fit under wetsuit collars
• Made in a Fair Trade Certified factory

Expert Advice
If you find a full hood too claustrophobic or just unnecessary for most of the year, this is a great alternative. It’s ideal for UK spring and autumn when the water’s cold enough to notice but not properly wintery. Easy to wear, easy to pack, and surprisingly effective — it’s one of those bits of kit you’ll end up using more than you expect.

Q & A

Q: How warm is this compared to a hood?
A: It’s warmer than going without anything, but not as warm as a full hood. It’s designed for milder cold conditions rather than deep winter.

Q: What conditions is this best for?
A: Spring, autumn and milder winter days, typically when water temperatures are between 9° and 13°C.

Q: Will it stay on while duck diving?
A: Yes — the snug, stretchy fit helps keep it in place during wipeouts and duck dives.

Q: Does it work with any wetsuit?
A: Yes — it works with most wetsuits and sits comfortably under collars without causing bulk.

Q: Is it restrictive around the neck or head?
A: No — it’s designed to be low-profile and flexible, making it much less restrictive than a full hood.

Q: Is it environmentally responsible?
A: Yes — it’s made with FSC-certified Yulex natural rubber, recycled fabrics, water-based glues and produced in a Fair Trade Certified factory.

Q: Who is this best for?
A: Surfers who want extra warmth without the feel of a hood, or anyone looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use cold-water upgrade.