THE AXXE HYBRID U-ZIP
The Axxe Hybrid U-zip is an ode to our heritage and a celebration of two companies we deeply admire, Yamamoto and Axxe Classic. Read more to discover the story behind the collaboration, the inspiration that shaped the suit, and Matt’s perspective on bringing it to life.
The partnership made sense from the beginning because I was a fan of Axxe even before starting Matuse, and copying its signature design and presenting it as our own would never be the Matuse way. I reached out to Takahashi-san and the Yamamoto team to bring everyone together, and it quickly became clear that all three companies shared a deep respect for one another and a genuine enthusiasm for the collaboration.
What was the inspiration behind the Axxe Hybrid U-Zip?
The inspiration came from being a longtime fan of Axxe and watching larger brands use versions of its design without always giving proper credit. We deeply respect Axxe and Yamamoto and wanted to use our platform to celebrate their innovation and craftsmanship- this collaboration is about them, not us.
What is unique about the Axxe Hybrid U-Zip?
The Matuse × Axxe Hybrid U-Zip × Yamamoto marks the first collaboration between Axxe and Yamamoto, two of Japan’s most respected manufacturers. It brings Axxe’s perfected Hybrid U-ZIP system together with premium Yamamoto rubber, featuring an ingeniously engineered chain zipper that follows the body’s natural curves to reduce stress on the arms and shoulders. A precisely designed internal neckline allows for easy entry while immediately directing incoming water back out of the suit. Brought together by Matuse, the result is a crème de la crème wetsuit, crafted entirely in Japan and offered in the United States.
How was the AXXE constructed and where was it made?
The collaboration suit is constructed entirely in 3mm premium Yamamoto limestone rubber and handcrafted in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa Prefecture, near Japan’s Shōnan coast. It represents the precision, attention to detail, and quality for which Japanese wetsuit manufacturing is known.
Why did you want to incorporate the Hybrid U-ZIP system?
The Hybrid U-ZIP is one of the easiest entry systems to put on and take off, making it especially beneficial for lifelong surfers who may have less shoulder mobility. Most importantly, it creates an exceptional seal that minimizes flushing—a critical performance advantage in larger surf.
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