buying my first wetsuit what to look out for
It should be hard to put on, it will stretch out with use but you want it tight so you don't take in a lot of water. The manufacturerers sizing charts are pretty helpful and a good starting point. Front zip is best in my opinion, less flushing and more flexibility. Not sure where you are, but if you can surf part of the year without a suit I'm guessing it won't get that cold in the winter so don't get something thicker than you will need, it will make it harder to paddle because you will lose some flexibility. Ask some locals what they use in the cold season.