Gul Wetsuits F/W 2026 Preview
Retail Buyers Guide: Wetsuits F/W 2026 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: Gul
Interviewee: Jack Knowles – Sales and Marketing Manager
After a few seasons of (mostly) carryovers, fresh pieces were introduced in FW25. How did things pan out saleswise?
Encouraging so far. There’s still a lot of competition with aged stock but the new kit has been well received.
The Fall/Winter collection is where innovations and new models come to life: which are the key additions to your range for FW26?
Our FW26 range will carryover from 2025. We’re very pleased with it and want to build some momentum with these lines.
Most wetsuit brands contained the rise of prices so far. Will FW26 remain stable regarding pricepoints?
We’re holding the price on the majority of lines. Raw materials continue to increase which obviously puts pressure on some.
Do you notice a discrepancy between the sales ratio of premium wetsuits and entry-level ones?
Good question. I’d say entry level is pretty stable and reliable but we’re pleased to have made some decent progress with our premium suits in recent years. I think we offer a great proposition for core surfers as well as more recreational consumers.
The shift to non-petroleum based foam is close to the take over. Are you relying on established suppliers or developing your own proprietary technologies, as seen among some brands for a couple years?
We’re sticking to partnership’s we have built in recent years and material suppliers that have excellent products and reputations. We’re very pleased with the quality of the materials we’re using so no need to change. Obviously we continually monitor this.
Any innovations in the linings for 2026?
Yes, we do have a new lining in our plans for FW 2026 but I can’t speak too much about that right now!
Do you notice any difference in the consumer habits of women? (wetsuit thickness, entry/closure systems, colors…)
We find that women like to be warm so go for thicker suits almost all year round. We believe they prefer the bib system on chest zip suits rather than the one way zip.
Please briefly mention the repair/recycle programs offered by your brand.
We work with Bodyline in Newquay and we’re close to finalising an agreement with TerraCycle to recycle customers old suits.
How are you helping retailers to sell more suits?
Quality images, great product!
Key Products:
VIPER 6/5/4:
Born from the relentless pursuit of warmth, performance, and durability, the Viper Collection is the ultimate coldwater armor. Designed and tested by specialists who live for winter swells, each piece in the Viper range is built to thrive where others fail. At the heart of the collection lies premium Japanese Yamamoto neoprene, chosen for its unmatched thermal insulation and flexibility. Paired with our cutting-edge GRAPHENE X core panels, these suits actively retain body heat while maintaining a lightweight, responsive feel in the water.
VR1225
FLEXOR 5/4:
Performance meets sustainability. The GUL Yulex® Flexor range is crafted from Yulex® natural rubber, delivering exceptional flexibility, warmth, and durability—without compromising the planet. Designed for surfers and water adventurers who demand high performance, these suits combine eco-conscious materials with advanced ergonomic panelling for unrestricted movement and superior comfort.
FX1221
FLEXOR 6/5/4 BOOTS:
Premium boots designed for the modern surfer—allowing you to ride consciously without compromising on flexibility or warmth. Now featuring GUL’s BOLTDRY+ thermal lining infused with GRAPHENE X yarns, you’ll stay:
> WARMER > DRYER > FOR LONGER!
BO1300
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