I’ve never used any of those dressing aids. For triathlons it’s common practice to use Body Glide or chamois butt’r to help with transitions (and prevent chafe) - that would definitely help with the binding on your thighs, midsection, and shoulders. I’ve never used it for surfing, but having my own thick wetsuit challenges i might try that out myself.

I’ve got the R5 Patagonia (6/5, I think?) and definitely empathize. Really heavy, really thick, and always a wrestling match to get off - outrageously warm though. Makes winter feasible here.

It seems to be less of an issue in the water if I dance around and work my arms out as far into the sleeves as possible on land beforehand, just to gather a little more material around my shoulders, but I’m still always fighting it while paddling.

Thanks, felt like a good first go-round! Will make sure to keep those things in mind - definitely want to get a lot more height and speed on the way up!